Janet L. Rathod has been appointed as the new Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Johns Hopkins, taking on her role starting September 16. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Rathod has made significant contributions to the field of cybersecurity. Her experience includes leadership roles at organizations like Citigroup, Capital One, and the FBI.
Career Highlights
Janet Rathod joins Johns Hopkins from Citigroup, where she led cyberintelligence efforts, managing global teams to conduct technical and strategic analysis aimed at enhancing defensive measures and reducing emerging threats. Her work in the emerging technology space involved identifying potential risks and implementing strategies to mitigate them effectively.
At Capital One Financial Corp., Rathod served as the Senior Director of Cyber Operations and Intelligence. She was instrumental in establishing comprehensive cybersecurity functions that had a widespread impact across the organization. Her career also includes a significant tenure with the FBI, where she held a senior executive role overseeing the intelligence program across numerous field offices.
Leadership and Vision
Rich Mendola, Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Johns Hopkins, expressed excitement over Rathod's appointment, highlighting her ability to drive positive change and cultivate a culture of excellence. Rathod is recognized as a leader who sets a bold direction and consistently seeks opportunities to enhance cybersecurity measures.
Opportunities at Johns Hopkins
Rathod herself is thrilled about joining Johns Hopkins, citing the institution's global impact and dedication to education, health care, and research as major attractions. She is eager to collaborate with her new colleagues to ensure the security of the university and health system, contributing to its success in various critical areas.
Understanding Cybersecurity Roles
For those unfamiliar, a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is responsible for an organization's information and data security. They develop policies to protect digital information and oversee the implementation of these measures. For example, in a university setting, this might involve protecting students' personal data and research information from cyber threats.
Rathod's extensive background and strategic insight position her as an ideal fit to advance Johns Hopkins' cybersecurity posture, ensuring the institution remains a leader in safeguarding against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.
