Carla Donev
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Carla Donev
Additional Info
| Job title of nominated professional (or team name) | Chief Information Security Officer |
| Company (where nominated professional or team is working) | NiSource |
| Website | https://nisource.com |
| Company size (employees) | 5,000 to 9,999 |
| Country | United States |
| Headquarters Region | North America |
Overview
Carla Donev, Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at NiSource, is a driving force behind cybersecurity excellence in the energy sector. Leading security operations for one of the country’s largest utilities, she ensures the protection of critical infrastructure that delivers gas and electricity to millions across six states.
Carla has transformed NiSource’s cybersecurity approach, shifting it from reactive to proactive through cutting-edge threat detection, automation, and real-time intelligence. She played a pivotal role in establishing the NiSource Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC) and integrating IT and OT cybersecurity, setting a gold standard for securing energy systems.
Beyond cyber defense, Carla oversees the Enterprise Security organization, which includes Federal Security Directive Compliance, Physical Security, Enterprise Cybersecurity, and Security Portfolio Management. Under her leadership, these teams work together seamlessly to mitigate evolving threats, ensuring NiSource remains resilient against cyber and physical risks.
Her leadership is widely recognized—she was named one of the Top Global CISOs in 2023 and one of the Top 100 Women in Cybersecurity by Cyber Defense Magazine. Known for her strategic mindset and innovative solutions, Carla has built a security program that not only safeguards NiSource but also sets a precedent for critical infrastructure protection across the industry.
Accomplishments
• Building a Best-in-Class Cybersecurity Program – Carla is leading NiSource’s cybersecurity transformation by integrating advanced analytics, automation, and intelligence-driven defense strategies. Her initiatives have strengthened NiSource’s security posture, improved risk management, and aligned security with business objectives.
• Operational Excellence Across Security Domains – By uniting cybersecurity with physical security and federal regulatory compliance, Carla has created a holistic, high-performing security operation. Her leadership enhances visibility, optimizes incident response, and ensures security investments deliver tangible results.
• Driving Innovation in Critical Infrastructure Protection – Carla has championed modernized security frameworks, proactive threat hunting, and OT/IT cybersecurity convergence to protect NiSource from both cyber and physical threats. Her vision and execution are shaping the future of security in the energy sector.
