Additional Info

Job title of nominated professional (or team name)Chief Information Security Officer
Company (where nominated professional or team is working)NiSource
Websitehttps://www.nisource.com/
Company size (employees)5,000 to 9,999
CountryUnited States
Headquarters RegionNorth America

Overview

Carla Donev, as the Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at NiSource, leads security operations for one of the country’s largest utilities, delivering gas and electricity to millions across six states. She is deeply committed to safeguarding critical infrastructure, ensuring NiSource’s customers receive the safe, reliable energy they deserve. Carla adopts a proactive stance on cybersecurity, emphasizing the construction of resilient operations to sustain trust amidst the evolving threat landscape.

A pivotal force in founding NiSource’s Security Operations Center, Carla’s efforts have significantly bolstered the company’s cyber defenses. Acclaimed as one of the premier CISOs in the energy sector, her innovative strategies and exceptional leadership have garnered numerous accolades, solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in cybersecurity. Renowned for her talent and innovative approaches, Carla consistently sets the standard for excellence in the industry.

Accomplishments

Innovative Security Solutions:
Carla spearheaded the integration of IT and OT cybersecurity operations at NiSource, establishing a gold standard for pipeline security. Her introduction of advanced cybersecurity technologies and development of proactive threat detection capabilities have transitioned NiSource’s cybersecurity operation from reactive to proactive, leading to the formation of a dedicated team.


Leadership in Cybersecurity Operations:
As a calm and focused leader, Carla has consistently elevated the company’s cybersecurity posture by enabling the development of advanced cybersecurity capabilities and eliminating potential cybersecurity threats to maintain organizational trust.


Awards and Achievements:
Recognized as one of the top Global CISOs in 2023 and named to the Top 100 Women in Cybersecurity by Cyber Defense Magazine, Carla Donev has solidified her status as a leading figure in cybersecurity through her innovative strategies, exceptional leadership, and significant contributions to the cybersecurity community.