Richard Young, PhD, is a seasoned cybersecurity leader and practitioner with over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. Serving as an adjunct professor and Cybersecurity Program chair, he has made significant contributions to academia, leading the development of innovative curricula that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. His teaching expertise includes cybersecurity, IT risk, and leadership, where he has mentored numerous graduate students and future leaders in navigating complex cybersecurity challenges. Currently, Dr. Young serves as the head of Global Operations Tech Risk & Platforms Engineering at Citibank in New York City where he spearheads technical product ownership and risk management strategies across regions. His previous roles as chief information security officer at Barclays and Deutsche Bank have equipped him with extensive expertise in establishing and maintaining enterprise strategies to protect information assets. Dr.Young is recognized for delivering operational excellence, implementing regulatory reforms, and fostering collaborative relationships across global financial institutions. In addition to his extensive professional experience, Dr. Young holds a PhD in Leadership with a focus on the Management of Information Systems and is pursuing an EdD in Educational Leadership. He is the author of three influential books, including The 2nd Coming: The Recolonization of Africa by the East, Cybersecurity – A Handbook for Boards and C-Suite, and Leadership Practices for Optimizing Performance and Job Satisfaction in the Financial Industry. Dr. Young’s insights and thought leadership have made him a prominent figure in bridging technology and cybersecurity, preparing organizations for the future challenges of the digital landscape.