Episode 2 – The CISO Slant: Scott Howitt, Founder, SVH Cyber
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Series: The CISO Slant (Episode 2 of 10)
Guest: Scott Howitt, Founder, SVH Cyber
Host: Jo Peterson, Chief Analyst, ClearTech Research
Episode Summary
In this second installment of The CISO Slant, Jo Peterson talks with Scott Howitt, Founder, SVH Cyber, about how security can support—not stifle—cloud innovation. They discuss practical strategies for managing risk while enabling digital transformation and how CISOs can more effectively engage board members by framing cybersecurity in business outcomes.
About the Guest — Scott Howitt
Scott Howitt is Founder of SVH Cyber. With decades of experience leading cybersecurity and risk management at Fortune 500 companies, Scott is known for driving secure digital transformation in highly regulated environments. He is a frequent speaker on board-level security engagement, data governance, and operational resilience.
Recognition includes:
- Named to HITEC 100 for contributions to global tech leadership
- Featured speaker at Gartner, RSA Conference, and SecureWorld
- Past CISO at MGM Resorts and McAfee, driving enterprise-level cyber strategies
- Advocate for modernizing the CISO role as a board-facing business enabler
3 Key Questions We Answer
- How can CISOs balance speed-to-cloud with rigorous risk management?
- What messaging works best when communicating security priorities to the board?
- How does the CISO role shift as companies modernize their tech stack?
Key Takeaways
- Security should be positioned as an innovation partner, not just a gatekeeper.
- CISOs must translate risk into business-aligned narratives to earn board support.
- Cloud transformation demands a rethinking of governance, roles, and responsibility models.