By: Kacey Card
Tracey Manuel is a veteran IT leader with over 25 years of global experience in designing, managing, and securing enterprise architecture and data systems. Known for his ability to inspire teams and align technological innovation with organizational objectives, Tracey’s leadership has empowered businesses to thrive in complex, fast-paced environments. From strategic planning to the implementation of advanced security frameworks, he has consistently demonstrated excellence in driving results and delivering sustainable solutions.
Tracey’s educational foundation includes a PhD in Organizational Leadership and Development from the University of Arizona Global Campus, multiple master’s degrees in information systems and technology, and leadership training from the US ARMY, where he spent 26 years and attended courses, such as Command and General Staff College. His extensive academic background complements his professional expertise, enabling him to bridge the gap between theory and practice effectively. Moreover, Tracey’s certifications—ranging from CISSP and C|CISO to SAFe® 6 Practice Consultant—underscore his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry standards.
Currently serving as the President and CEO of Security 1st Consulting, Tracey leads with a vision for excellence. He oversees the company’s operations, communications, and strategic growth initiatives. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, he has positioned the organization as a trusted partner in delivering high-impact IT and cybersecurity solutions. His leadership extends beyond operational management to include mentoring and training future leaders in the IT field.
Tracey’s professional journey also includes pivotal roles with TECHSOFT, Inc., George Consulting, and Boeing. As a Senior Consultant, Cybersecurity Manager, and Technical Director, he has spearheaded initiatives in cloud migration, cybersecurity, and program management. His expertise in Agile methodologies and risk governance has earned him recognition as a thought leader in both private and public sectors, including work with federal agencies like FEMA, NSF, and SPAWAR.
A key highlight of Tracey’s career is his dedication to community and global impact. As President of DESAMY, a nonprofit focused on empowering underprivileged youth in communities such as Northern Haiti and Charleston, SC, he actively champions education and sustainable development. His philanthropic efforts reflect his personal motto, emphasizing empathy, integrity, and service as cornerstones of his leadership style.
Tracey’s technical proficiency spans a wide array of domains, including governance and risk management, network administration, application security, information assurance, information security, and disaster recovery planning. He is skilled in vulnerability assessment tools like Nessus, security compliance automation tools, email security tools, and other software including, Splunk, and Cisco technologies, bringing unparalleled expertise to his roles. In addition, his certifications in cybersecurity and IT governance have solidified his reputation as a trusted advisor in navigating the complexities of modern IT ecosystems.
His communication skills are equally noteworthy. Tracey excels at translating complex technical concepts into actionable strategies, making him an invaluable asset to organizations seeking to bridge the gap between IT and business goals. Whether presenting on the role of AI in threat mitigation or mentoring teams across six continents, his ability to inspire and connect with diverse audiences sets him apart. Tracey has also written a book titled” Navigating the Next Generation: A guide to working with Millennials and Gen-Z that was written to support better engagement and enhance communication between leaders and the younger generations in the workforce today.
Tracey’s global exposure and adaptability further underscore his strategic capabilities. Having worked across six continents, he brings a multicultural perspective to problem-solving, ensuring that his strategies resonate across different contexts and industries. Fluent in fostering collaboration across borders, he has successfully navigated the challenges of leading cross-functional, geographically dispersed teams.
Ultimately, Tracey Manuel exemplifies the character, knowledge, and strategic acumen required to excel in today’s ever-evolving IT landscape. His journey is one of continual growth, driven by a commitment to making a meaningful impact on both his industry and the communities he serves.
Character:
Tracey Manuel embodies integrity, empathy, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of his leadership. His dedication to empowering teams and fostering positive change reflects his core belief in treating others as he wishes to be treated.
Knowledge:
With a deep understanding of IT governance, cybersecurity, and enterprise architecture, Tracey leverages decades of expertise to deliver innovative solutions. His pursuit of advanced certifications and continuous learning ensures he remains at the forefront of industry trends.
Strategic:
Tracey excels at aligning technology initiatives with organizational objectives, driving measurable results and long-term growth. His ability to anticipate challenges and implement forward-thinking strategies sets him apart as a visionary leader.
Communication:
A skilled communicator, Tracey simplifies complex technical concepts into actionable insights that resonate with diverse audiences. His collaborative approach fosters trust and unity across teams, ensuring alignment between IT and business goals.
