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By Lisa Ventura MBE FCIIS, Judge for the CSO 30 and Next CSO Awards
I’m absolutely thrilled to return as a judge for the CSO 30 and Next CSO Awards this year, and I wanted to share what I’m looking for and why these awards matter so much to our industry.
I’ll be joining an incredible judging panel including Andrew Barber, Christelle Heikkila, Holly Foxcroft, Jasmine Eskenzi, Manoj Bhatt, Sam Finn, Theo Botha, and Erhan Temurkan to recognise the leaders who are truly making a difference in cyber security.
What I Mean by Transformational Leadership
Over the years, I’ve judged numerous awards across the cyber security landscape, and each time I’m reminded of just how much innovation, resilience, and leadership exists in our industry. But this year, I’m especially focused on something specific: transformational leadership.
It’s no longer enough to be technically brilliant, though that’s certainly important. I’m looking for individuals who drive cultural shifts, who embed cyber security into the DNA of their organisation, and who lead with empathy, adaptability, and a clear strategic vision.
Have you weathered a crisis? Driven boardroom conversations about security? Pioneered cross-functional collaboration? I want to hear your story.
How to Apply and What Catches My Eye
First things first – applying is straightforward and completely free. Just head to csoonline.com/uk/awards and click “Apply.” But don’t leave it too late as the deadline is Thursday, 4th September 2025.
When I’m reviewing applications, three things will make them stand out to me:
Clarity – Tell your story in a way that’s easy to follow. I want to understand your journey and your impact without having to decode jargon or wade through complexity.
Impact – Show me the outcomes. How did you change your team, your company, or even your community? I want to see concrete evidence of the difference you’ve made.
Authenticity – Be real with me. I don’t expect perfection; I want to see growth, learning, and resilience. Your challenges and how you overcame them are just as important as your successes.
Whether you’re nominating yourself or someone else, back it up with tangible examples. Numbers, results, influence – they all matter to me.
Why I’m Passionate About Self-Nomination
Here’s something I need to address directly: cyber security professionals are often behind the scenes, quietly keeping everything running while fending off ever-evolving threats. You’re the unsung heroes, and these awards are about shining a light on that crucial work.
Please don’t be shy about self-nominating. I get it, I really do. I’ve never self-nominated myself for anything and speaking from personal experience, my imposter syndrome goes through the roof at the very thought of self-nomination. It feels “wrong” somehow. But if you don’t tell your story, who will?
This isn’t about ego. It’s about visibility, credibility, and celebrating the right kind of leadership. Awards like these help raise the profile of cybersecurity within organisations and open doors for future leaders.
I’m particularly passionate about hearing from those who may not always feel represented – women, neurodivergent professionals, those from non-linear or non-traditional backgrounds. Your voice matters, and I want to help you amplify it.
What Excites Me About the Next CSO Category
When I think about the “Next CSO” category, I’m looking for someone with fire in their belly. These are the rising stars who are shaping the future of security leadership.
You might not have the title yet, but you’re already influencing, already leading, already thinking beyond the technical. You’re the one asking why, pushing for better, and lifting others as you climb.
What really stands out to me is a combination of curiosity, courage, and strategic thinking. I want to see people who are ready to challenge the status quo and who are already making waves – even if they’re still early in their career.
If that sounds like you, please don’t hesitate to apply. I can’t wait to see what you bring to the table.
Why These Awards Matter to Me
Every time I judge these awards, I’m reminded why I’m so passionate about this industry. We’re not just dealing with technology; we’re protecting people, businesses, and entire communities. The work we do matters enormously, yet it’s often invisible to those we protect.
These awards give us a chance to celebrate the very best in cyber security – the leaders of today and the trailblazers of tomorrow. They help us recognise not just technical excellence, but the human qualities that make truly exceptional security leaders.
I’m genuinely excited to read your applications. Remember, the deadline is Thursday, 4th September 2025, and you can apply at csoonline.com/uk/awards.
Good luck to you all – let’s celebrate the incredible work happening in our industry.