About Grant Gilliam

As an experienced IT Security Leader with over 20 years of expertise in the field, am passionate about driving innovative security strategies that balance risk and business needs. Throughout my career, I have consistently led cross-functional teams to improve security postures, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with global regulations.

Prior to be laid off in March 2025, I served as the IT Security Manager at the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) in Chicago, where I lead two IT security teams, enhancing incident response and coordination. My role involves presenting monthly KPIs and KRIs to leadership, providing them with the data needed to make informed, strategic decisions. I work closely with stakeholders across the organization, ensuring that security measures align with business goals while maintaining high standards of risk management.

Before NORC, I served as the Director of Information Security and Compliance at Britecore, where I led the company to achieve its first SOC 2 certification. In this role, I directed security and compliance efforts, significantly improving governance and fostering collaboration across teams. My work involved representing the company in external security matters and strengthening partnerships that built trust in our security initiatives.

Earlier in my career, I held roles at Toyota Financial Services, 7Eleven, PepsiCo, and CHRISTUS Health, where I honed my skills in information security risk management, data privacy, and security architecture. I have led various security initiatives, such as implementing agile security risk management frameworks and introducing enterprise-wide data privacy protocols, all while enhancing security measures to reduce vulnerabilities.

I hold several key certifications, including Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC). I also have advanced degrees, including an MBA and a Master’s in Information Systems, which further solidify my commitment to continuous learning and leadership in the field.

My experience spans across various industries, including finance, healthcare, retail, and technology, allowing me to understand and address the unique security challenges faced by organizations of all sizes. I believe in fostering strong business relationships, building trust, and ensuring that security is not just an IT function but a core part of the company’s strategic vision.

With a deep understanding of the technical and managerial aspects of cybersecurity, I am dedicated to delivering solutions that secure data, streamline operations, and enable businesses to operate with confidence.