Dark Faces in Cyber Places: Shattering Stereotypes and Leading with Legacy in Cybersecurity (Security, Audit and Leadership Series)

In an industry that often lacks representation, Dark Faces in Cyber Places shines a bright spotlight on the remarkable journeys of prominent cybersecurity CEOs, CISOs, and senior executives who have risen to the top, defying stereotypes and shattering long-held myths about what cybersecurity leaders look like. This book celebrates the achievements of these trailblazers who have overcome structural challenges, navigated corporate cultures, and broken through barriers to lead some of the world’s most important organizations. Through personal stories, interviews, and career insights, Dark Faces in Cyber Places not only chronicles their paths to leadership but also highlights the unique perspectives and innovations they bring to cybersecurity. These leaders share hard-won lessons about resilience, integrity, and authenticity, inspiring the next generation to envision their own place in the industry. By championing diversity and inclusion, they’ve not only opened doors for others but have actively reshaped the landscape of cybersecurity to be more inclusive and representative. From humble beginnings to the executive boardroom, this book offers a front-row seat to the power of perseverance and the importance of mentorship, community, and purpose. In lifting up these stories, Dark Faces in Cyber Places honors their legacy while challenging readers to imagine a cybersecurity field strengthened by diverse voices, empowered to meet the threats of tomorrow.

Devon Bryan is the Global Chief Security Officer (CSO) for Booking Holdings, where he’s responsible for leading the comprehensive security strategy, encompassing cybersecurity, physical security, and fraud prevention across BHI’s global portfolio of brands, including Booking.com/Rentalcars.com, Priceline, Agoda, Kayak, and OpenTable.

Working in close partnership with the Chief Security Officers and Chief Information Security Officers of BHI’s subsidiary brands, Devon is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the company’s digital assets, workforce, physical locations, and customer transactions.

He joined Booking Holdings in January 2025 having previously held CISO roles at the following organizations:

• Carnival Corporation
• MUFG Union Bank (Americas)
• KPMG (Americas)
• US Federal Reserve System
• ADP LLC

His information security career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Captain and lead network security engineer working on systems and programs to protect the critical network and communications networks of the Air Force’s Air Combat Command.

Devon currently serves as a Board member for the non-profit he co-founded in 2014, Cyversity, to help diversify the cybersecurity workforce through programs geared toward attracting more women and minority cybersecurity professionals. Each year his volunteer-led non-profit, awards several $1000s in scholarships, provides mentorship, and support for job placements and promotion of cyber practitioners from underserved communities while changing lives.

Devon received a Bachelor of Science, Applied Mathematics from South Dakota Technological University and a Master of Science, Computer Science from Colorado Technological University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He holds multiple cybersecurity certifications to include: CISSP, CIPP/US and CIPP/EU, serves on several non-profit boards, academic advisory boards and participates in select industry forums as a sought-after speaker and writer on emerging cyber security trends and issues.

LinkedIN Profile: http://linkedin.com/in/devonabryan