Governing Body Spotlight

Devin Rudnicki oversees information security for all of Fitch Group's business units, including Fitch Ratings. Devin holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from DePaul University and has multiple cybersecurity-related professional certifications including CISSP, GSTRT, GSEC, and GCSA.

In her free time, Devin actively engages with the broader cybersecurity community, serving as a mentor for Cyversity and participating in multiple advisory boards. She also enjoys pickleball, reading, and traveling the world.

Learn more about the Chicago CISO community here.
 

Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.

I began my cybersecurity career as an intern for an IT and Security Governance Risk Management team. This experience launched my journey into cybersecurity, eventually leading me to the more technical side when I took over the Application Security team during a colleague’s maternity leave. I subsequently built an Application Security program from the ground up, which paved the way for my current role as CISO. I am grateful to everyone who has provided opportunities and mentorship along the way, as this journey wouldn’t have been possible without their support.
 

What is one of your guiding leadership principles?

I believe collaboration is key to effective leadership. Whether leading a cross-functional project or garnering support for a new initiative, success hinges on embracing collaboration.
 

What is the greatest challenge CISOs face today, and how are you addressing it?

One of the biggest challenges in the CISO role today is securely enabling the business. Traditionally seen as the "No" department, information security needs to evolve. I advocate for a paradigm where Information Security empowers the business to move swiftly and securely, by understanding business needs and designing secure solutions to achieve strategic business outcomes.
 

What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CISO?

There are so many pieces of advice that I have. The top one is to invest time in conversing with individuals both within and outside your organization. Building relationships with other leaders helps you understand their initiatives and challenges, making you a more effective partner. Internally, engage with your team to discern what’s working and what’s not. Additionally, seek wisdom from external sources to further expand your perspective as you grow into your role.
 

How do you measure success as a leader?

Success, to me, is measured by my impact on people and progress against strategic goals. I believe people are everything and it’s very important to help others progress in their own professional and personal goals. It’s also important to set a clear strategy and demonstrate tangible progress against it.
 

What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?

Having such an amazing community at your fingertips is the biggest value. There are so many insightful and wonderful leaders that are a part of this community. Engaging with this community allows for mutual learning and knowledge sharing.
 

Evanta Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.