In a significant move reflecting its commitment to fortifying cybersecurity on a global scale, Fortinet has appointed Janet Napolitano, the former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, to its board of directors. This decision aligns with Fortinet’s strategic intent to enhance its initiatives across both public and private sectors. Napolitano brings a wealth of experience in national security and public policy, poised to provide invaluable guidance on initiatives concerning the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure by Design Pledge. Her role entails strengthening Fortinet’s collaborations with key governmental entities, including NATO, INTERPOL, and the Five Eyes intelligence community.
The appointment of Janet Napolitano to Fortinet’s board is expected to bolster the company’s expertise in managing cybersecurity risks. Fortinet’s Founder, Chairman of the Board, and CEO, Ken Xie, emphasized the significance of this new addition, stating, “We are pleased to welcome Janet Napolitano to our esteemed board of directors. Janet’s contributions to national security and public policy will be invaluable as we continue deepening our focus on strategic, collaborative efforts to reduce cyber risks on a global scale.” This collaboration is anticipated to foster secure-by-design principles, thereby enhancing robust security frameworks and fostering cooperation with crucial government institutions.
Enhancing Cybersecurity Initiatives
Janet Napolitano has expressed enthusiasm regarding her new responsibilities at Fortinet, indicating her eagerness to contribute to the company’s mission of fostering secure-by-design cybersecurity practices. Napolitano, who also holds positions on the boards of Vir Biotechnology, Zoom, and the board of trustees at RAND Corporation, is expected to leverage her extensive experience to enhance Fortinet’s cybersecurity strategies further. Her presence on the board signifies Fortinet’s dedication to understanding and addressing complex cybersecurity challenges in collaboration with leading government and private organizations.
Through her involvement, Napolitano aims to guide Fortinet in reinforcing its cybersecurity measures and initiatives. This aligns closely with the principles of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s Secure by Design Pledge, which stresses the importance of integrating security at the design phase of products and services. Additionally, her network and insights from government and policy-making experience will offer valuable perspectives, driving Fortinet’s proactive approach to identifying and mitigating cybersecurity threats. The collaboration with critical entities such as NATO and INTERPOL is especially significant in protecting global digital infrastructure.
Strengthening Global Collaboration
In a notable step to strengthen cybersecurity worldwide, Fortinet has added Janet Napolitano, the former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, to its board of directors. This strategic decision supports Fortinet’s aim to boost its efforts in both public and private sectors. With a vast background in national security and public policy, Napolitano is set to offer essential insights into initiatives related to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure by Design Pledge. Her responsibilities include enhancing Fortinet’s partnerships with major governmental organizations such as NATO, INTERPOL, and the Five Eyes intelligence community.
The inclusion of Janet Napolitano on Fortinet’s board is projected to elevate the company’s capability in dealing with cybersecurity threats. According to Ken Xie, Fortinet’s Founder, Chairman of the Board, and CEO, “We are excited to welcome Janet Napolitano to our distinguished board of directors. Her expertise in national security and public policy will be critical as we intensify our strategic, collaborative ventures to mitigate cyber risks globally.” This partnership aims to advocate secure-by-design principles, thereby improving robust security measures and cooperation with key government institutions.
