Name: Eleanor Richard "EllieRick" ThompsonAnderson
Age: 55 58
Education: MBA from Harvard Business SchoolWharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, B.AS. in Accounting Economics from the Yale University of Pennsylvania
Professional Background:
25+ years of experience in professional services firms, with a focus on audit and assurance, risk management, and complianceexecutive leadership roles within non-profit organizations and government agencies.
Focus areas: Leading large-scale audit and compliance engagements, developing new service offerings, building client relationships, and managing partner teamsStrategic planning, fundraising, stakeholder engagement, public policy advocacy, and organizational development.
Previous roles: Partner at a Big Four accounting firm, Managing Director of Risk Advisory Services, Head of Compliance Practice.
Special certifications or skills: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
Industry: Accounting and Consulting
Responsibilities:
Oversee the firm's audit and compliance practice, setting strategic direction and ensuring quality service deliveryExecutive Director of a cybersecurity advocacy group, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of a public policy think tank, Senior Advisor to a government agency on cybersecurity.
Industry: Cybersecurity Standards and Frameworks (Non-Profit or Government Sector)
Responsibilities:
Set the overall vision and strategic direction for the organization.
Lead fundraising and development efforts to secure financial resources.
Build and maintain relationships with key clientsstakeholders, including C-suite executives and board members.
Lead business development efforts, identifying new opportunities and expanding the firm's client base.
Manage partner teams, providing mentorship and guidance, and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.
Represent the firm at industry events and conferences, building thought leadership and brand awarenessgovernment officials, industry leaders, and academic researchers.
Oversee the organization's operations and ensure effective program delivery.
Advocate for the organization's mission and values in public policy discussions.
Goals:
Grow Increase the firmorganization's audit and compliance practice, increasing revenue and market share.
Establish the firm as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the industry.
Attract and retain top talent, building a high-performing team.
Maintain the firm's reputation for quality, integrity, and independence.
Challenges:
Navigating a complex and evolving regulatory landscape.
Managing client expectations and balancing competing priorities.
Maintaining profitability and managing costs in a highly competitive market.
Attracting and retaining top talent in a rapidly changing industry.
impact and influence in the cybersecurity landscape.
Expand the adoption and implementation of the organization's security standards and frameworks.
Build a sustainable and financially secure organization.
Foster a collaborative and innovative culture within the organization.
Challenges:
Securing adequate funding and resources to support the organization's mission.
Navigating complex political and regulatory environments.
Balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders with competing interests.
Staying ahead of the curve on emerging cybersecurity threats and technologies.
Motivations:
Making a positive impact on clients' businesses by helping them improve their risk management and compliance programs.
Building a thriving and successful practice that delivers exceptional value to clients.
Developing the next generation of leaders in the audit and compliance field.
Upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conductsociety by improving cybersecurity practices and reducing risk.
Leading a mission-driven organization dedicated to making a difference in the world.
Building a team of talented and passionate individuals committed to a common goal.
Promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the cybersecurity community.
Tech-Savviness:
Highly Moderately tech-savvy, with a deep good understanding of the role of technology in audit and compliance.Proficient in using audit software, data analytics tools, and collaboration platformscybersecurity concepts and trends.
Comfortable with using technology for communication, collaboration, and data analysis.
Open to exploring new technologies , such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, to enhance audit and compliance processesthat can enhance the organization's effectiveness.
Behavioral Traits:
Strategic thinker Visionary leader with a strong business acumen strategic thinking and leadership communication skills.
Excellent communicator and relationship builder, able to connect with clients and colleagues at all levels.
Results-oriented and driven to achieve ambitious goals.
Passionate about audit and compliance and committed to delivering high-quality servicesRelationship-oriented and skilled at building consensus among diverse stakeholders.
Passionate about the organization's mission and committed to achieving its goals.
Decisive and able to make difficult choices under pressure.
Sources of Information:
Industry publications and research reports (e.g., The Journal of Accountancy, Compliance Week).
Professional conferences and events (e.g., AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE, ISACA Conference)Government reports and policy briefings on cybersecurity.
Industry research and publications on cybersecurity trends and best practices.
Networking with other professionals leaders in the audit and compliance fieldcybersecurity community.
Client feedback and surveysFeedback and insights from staff and stakeholders.
Quote:
"Our firm's success is built on trust, expertise, and a commitment to delivering exceptional value to our clients. By staying at the forefront of industry trends and embracing new technologies, we can help our clients navigate complex challenges and achieve their strategic objectivesorganization plays a critical role in shaping the future of cybersecurity. By developing and promoting effective security standards and frameworks, we can empower individuals and organizations to protect themselves from cyber threats and build a more secure digital world for everyone."