Emily Morgan’s journey from student worker to the VP of security and chief information security officer (CISO) at Coterie, a company specializing in commercial insurance for small businesses, is a resounding ode to personal and professional growth. Her leadership philosophy, crafted by familial influences, resonates with authenticity, consistency and a profound understanding of the unique challenges within today’s cybersecurity landscape.
As the digital world continues to shift, leaders like Emily Morgan provide inspiration for the next generation of security professionals.
Early Life Experiences: Where IT All Began
Emily’s ascent to leadership finds its origins in the rich tapestry of her early life, intricately woven with the profound influence of her parents. Growing up in an era marked by distinct societal expectations for women, Emily’s mother dedicated 55 years to the role of a stay-at-home mom, while her father (a venerable presence within a Fortune 500 company), became the conduit for invaluable lessons on likability, consistency and respect in the role of leadership.
These formative experiences not only shaped but meticulously crafted the foundation for Emily’s distinctive approach to leadership.
Leading with Purpose: Why It All Matters
Reflecting on her career trajectory, Emily highlights the pivotal moments that helped shape her path. From her days as an introverted student worker at the University of Cincinnati to having the courage to present to leadership, she stresses the importance of advocacy and having a voice.
Emily’s journey underscores the transformative power of support and encouragement in overcoming challenges and embracing leadership roles.
As a CISO and VP of security, Emily Morgan understands the challenges faced by security leaders when it comes to guiding and properly securing an organization.
Her advice to others is to avoid a dictatorial approach and understand the psychology of your audience. Her strong emphasis on humility, collaboration and adaptability aligns with the ever-evolving nature of cybersecurity.
Emily states, “Security leaders should always discern reality from hype, educate on safe AI usage and balance risk and innovation.” Her insights into cutting through industry noise include engaging with local CISOs, attending events and valuing side conversations for meaningful exchange.
By aligning cybersecurity messaging with business frameworks and building meaningful relationships with business leaders, Emily Morgan advocates for a collaborative approach that transcends fear tactics in cybersecurity.
Beyond the Boardroom: When IT Becomes Personal
Keeping her personal life separate from her professional life in the world of cybersecurity, Emily and her husband share a love for travel and hiking.
The couple also share an adventurous nature, having eloped in Glacier National Park. Emily’s passion for mountains and hiking provides a glimpse into the multifaceted personality of a leader who values experiences beyond just her professional career.
Personal and Professional Growth: How It All Comes Together
Emily’s one piece of wisdom she gives to her fellow security leaders: she urges them to deepen their understanding of business operations. By aligning cybersecurity messaging with business frameworks and building relationships with business leaders, Emily advocates for a collaborative approach that transcends fear tactics.
A journey of personal and professional growth, Emily Morgan takes us full circle from introverted student worker to the VP of security and CISO at Coterie. Her leadership philosophy, shaped by familial influences, resonates with authenticity, consistency and a commitment to understanding the unique challenges of the cybersecurity industry.
As the digital world continues to evolve, leaders like Emily Morgan provide valuable insights and inspiration for the next generation of security professionals.
To learn more about cybersecurity and how you can keep your organization safe from known and unknown threats, contact us today.
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There is a never-ending list of examples of companies (big and small) that have been victimized by cyber crime. In fact, former FBI Director Robert Mueller once said, “There are only two types of companies: those that have been hacked and those that will be.”
