Chicago CISO Community
Inner Circle
February 25, 2026 | The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
February 25, 2026
The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
Collaborate with your peers
Join Chicago's top CISOs for an intimate networking dinner and facilitated discussion on key business challenges. Enjoy a relaxed evening of dinner and drinks with your peers to share best practices, make new connections and build professional relationships.
Join your peers to discuss the most critical issues impacting CISOs today:
Real-World AI Success Stories
Governance Frameworks for Secure AI Adoption
Aligning AI Security with Business Priorities
Chicago CISO Governing Body
The Governing Body Co-Chairs shape the discussion topics and agenda, ensuring that all content is driven By CISOs, For CISOs®.
Governing Body Co-Chairs
Chris Lugo
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
VP, CISO
JJ Markee
Danaher
Global CISO
Angela Williams
UL Solutions
SVP, Global CISO
Agenda
February 25, 2026
4:30pm - 5:30pm Executive Networking Reception
5:30pm - 6:30pm Discussion Topics
Securing AI in Practice — Use Cases, Governance, and Business Alignment
Ivanka Gajecky
CISO and Director, Information Security & Privacy
Volkswagen Financial Services
Karen Habercoss
VP, Chief Information Security and Privacy Officer
UChicago Medicine
Frank McGovern
Head of IT Risk & Security
StoneX Group Inc.
Max Paredes
VP, Information Security & Operations
Hub Group
Jigar Shah
CISO
Medusind
Michael Simmons
VP, Information Security
Ulta Beauty
Todd Spight
CISO
HDI Global Insurance Company
Shane Coleman
Chief Data Security Evangelist
Cyera
Artificial Intelligence has shifted from a theoretical risk to an operational reality for CISOs, appearing in every conversation and becoming deeply embedded in security programs and business processes. Organizations are leveraging AI to automate workflows, enhance threat detection, and streamline compliance, prompting security leaders to seek practical guidance on securing these rapidly evolving implementations.
This requires a strategic approach, real-world experiences and shared lessons learned to drive towards secure and successful adoption. As CISOs align AI with broader organizational objectives, it is essential that AI investments not only reduce risk but also support revenue growth and strategic priorities.
- What real-world AI use-cases have you implemented that measurably improved your organization’s cybersecurity posture or operational efficiency?
- How have you addressed resource gaps and third-party risks when deploying AI-driven security solutions?
- What governance frameworks or best practices have helped you manage the risks and accountability challenges of autonomous or generative AI systems?
- How are cybersecurity teams ensuring that all AI implementations are secure, while also supporting business objectives?
6:30pm - 7:00pm Networking Break
7:00pm - 8:00pm Summary Discussion & Dinner
8:00pm - 9:00pm Social Hour
Apply to Participate
Each application is carefully vetted to ensure members meet established criteria, preserving the quality of the network and enabling meaningful, peer‑level discussions among leaders from the world’s leading organizations.
Once you submit your application, a Community Program Manager will schedule a conversation to understand your priorities and interests and complete onboarding, including access to year‑round community events.
Location
More Information
Complimentary Valet Parking Onsite
Your Community Sponsors
Global Thought Leader
CISO Thought Leader
Key Sponsor
Program Sponsor
Community Program Manager
For inquiries related to this community, please reach out to your dedicated contact.
