Florian Brandner
Global Head of Information & Cyber Security
Puma
Recognizing the critical importance of implementing an information security-aware culture within an organisation, Florian Brandner has successfully built the Information & Cyber Security Department from scratch at PUMA. With CISM, CISSP, and CGEIT certifications and the belief that Information Security is a team sport where everybody needs to contribute, Florian brings extensive expertise in making sure that his team's mission to safeguard the company's valuable information assets from unintended disclosure, modification, and loss is ensured.
Learn more about the DACH CISO community here.
Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
I have gone through many different IT job functions throughout my career, starting with IT service desk to IT database administration and coding, then groupware and mobile device management. IT project management for Infrastructure & Security led my way into developing my cyber skills more. So, I turned into a Cyber Security Analyst, and now I am leading PUMAs Information & Cyber Security department.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
Listen and lead by example.
With disruption being a key theme of recent years, where do you see the CISO role going in the next 1-2 years?
The role of the CISO is becoming increasingly complex and strategic. CISOs will need to balance technical expertise with business acumen, adapt to evolving threats and technologies, and play a pivotal role in shaping their organisations' cybersecurity and risk management strategies.
CISOs will be expected to align cybersecurity initiatives with overall business objectives. We'll need to demonstrate how security measures not only protect the organisation, but also contribute to its growth and innovation.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out as a CISO?
Stay calm and observe.
Tell us three fun facts about yourself.
- Besides my CISO job, I am a track & field coach for kids.
- I love running, it clears my mind and brings out new ideas.
- Before joining PUMA, I was working in a hospital filming surgeries.
What is the value of joining an Evanta community?
Great networking opportunities 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.
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