Margaret Morton is a solution-oriented and resourceful Information Security Senior Leader renowned for her expertise in driving global enterprise-wide security and governance strategies. With a unique combination of industry acumen, program and change management skills, and a talent for impactful communication, she has consistently delivered cybersecurity solutions that mitigate risk and ensure regulatory compliance. A trusted advisor and collaborative partner, Margaret excels in influencing policy development and fostering consensus among key stakeholders to advance organizational goals.
In her past role as Program Manager for the Office of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at a top 10 global bank by assets, Margaret oversees the cybersecurity program for the Americas, spanning New York, Brazil, and Canada. She leads a team of 14 global cybersecurity professionals, focusing on Data Classification and Protection, Activity Monitoring, Cyber Resilience, Technical Configuration, and Cybersecurity Governance. Notably, Margaret played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring consistent reporting of positive key risk indicators (KRIs) and enhancing regulatory consistency through robust governance initiatives. Her leadership was also pivotal in preparing threat intelligence briefings for the C-suite during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, showcasing her ability to navigate geopolitical crises.
Previously, Margaret served as Senior Manager of Transformation at Mutual of America, where she spearheaded the enterprise-wide deployment of OKTA and SailPoint for identity management, impacting over 1,000 employees nationwide. These implementations ensured a secure remote work environment during the pandemic and upheld financial services compliance standards. At Société Générale, Margaret’s tenure as Vice President of IT Compliance was marked by her success in building and enhancing controls to meet SEC, OCC, and FINRA requirements. Her work in leading risk platforms and upgrading Federal compliance standards demonstrated her ability to address operational risks and regulatory challenges effectively.
Margaret’s career also includes significant achievements in the federal and legal sectors. As Project Manager at ZyLAB North America, she implemented an email archiving solution for the U.S. Federal Reserve Board of Governors, a project that expanded the firm’s reach into the multi-billion-dollar U.S. government market. At Amyx, she managed a cross-functional cybersecurity program for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, successfully operationalizing the Agency’s Technology and Controls functions.
Margaret’s early career included legal roles at top-tier law firms, including Morrison & Foerster and King & Spalding. Her responsibilities encompassed managing complex litigation matters involving financial regulatory bodies such as FINRA, the SEC, and the CFTC, further solidifying her expertise in compliance and risk management.
An accomplished professional, Margaret holds a Master’s degree in Technology Management from Columbia University and a Bachelor’s degree in German from the University of North Carolina Asheville Honors College. She is a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) and a Project Management Professional (PMP), reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and excellence in her field.
Margaret’s thought leadership extends beyond her roles, with notable engagements such as her presentation at the 2021 RSA Global Conference. Recognized as one of the Top 20 IFSEC Global Top Influencers in Security and Fire in 2019, she continues to shape the cybersecurity landscape through her professional affiliations. She is a council member of the Forbes Technology Council, an inaugural advisory board member of the University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity, and a founding board member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), an organization now present in 90 countries.
Through her strategic vision, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication, Margaret Morton remains a pivotal figure in the ever-evolving realm of information security, driving advancements that safeguard enterprises and promote industry-wide excellence.
Character: Margaret is a solution-oriented and resourceful leader, known for her ability to drive results and foster collaboration across complex, global security initiatives.
Knowledge: With extensive expertise in information security, program management, and regulatory compliance, Margaret excels in navigating the intricacies of cybersecurity to mitigate risks and ensure organizational adherence to industry standards.
Strategic: Margaret demonstrates a strong strategic mindset, successfully aligning cybersecurity programs with business goals while anticipating and addressing emerging risks and regulatory challenges.
Communication: A skilled communicator, Margaret delivers impactful briefings and reports to key stakeholders, ensuring clarity in complex cybersecurity matters and building consensus across leadership teams.
