Thomas Zimmermann
CISO
ASSA ABLOY Group
Thomas Zimmermann, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of ASSA ABLOY Group, is a highly experienced and accomplished cybersecurity expert with over 25 years of experience in the field. Thomas has a proven track record of developing and implementing effective cybersecurity strategies that align with business objectives and the business culture.
As a fun fact, Thomas says that he seems to like continuity, as he has lived all his life in the same city and worked for over 20 years for ASSA ABLOY. He said, “Is that a bad thing? Not at all!”
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Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
While finalising my diploma in Informatics at the university of applied sciences in Wiesbaden, I started my business career in 1997 with the foundation of an IT consulting and service business. Since 2003, I have worked in several senior expert and leadership positions within ASSA ABLOY Group with strong focus on Enterprise IT, IT, and Information Security. Since September 2017, I have been the Group CISO of ASSA ABLOY. My extensive experience and expertise has made me well-equipped to lead ASSA ABLOY Group's cybersecurity efforts into the future, ensuring the safety and security of the company's information and technology assets.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
Grow leaders.
What is the greatest challenge CISOs face today, and how are you addressing it?
Combating the legislation nightmare in front of us and turning it into opportunities for the business.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CISO?
Learn the key elements of your company’s business outcomes, and align your strategy with them.
How do you measure success as a leader?
Risk reduction and business value creation.
What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?
Meeting with CISOs of larger scaled organisations for exchange, inspiration and networking.
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