ClearTech Loop Podcast Ep 3 Thomas LaBonte CISO Saint-Gobain NA
Release Date: July 16, 2025
Series: The CISO Slant (Episode 3 of 10)
Guest: Thomas LaBonte, CISO, Saint-Gobain North America
Host: Jo Peterson, Chief Analyst, ClearTech Research
Episode Summary
In this third episode of The CISO Slant, Jo Peterson sits down with Thomas LaBonte, CISO of Saint-Gobain North America, to discuss how cybersecurity evolves in complex manufacturing environments. From integrating IT and OT, to shaping risk-aware business practices, Tom shares how his team drives resilience through transparency, culture, and process improvements.
About the Guest — Thomas LaBonte
Thomas LaBonte is the Chief Information Security Officer at Saint-Gobain North America, where he leads enterprise-wide cybersecurity efforts across industrial, IT, web, and application domains. With decades of experience across organizations like CertainTeed, Columbia Sportswear, Honeywell, and IBM, Thomas is known for aligning cybersecurity strategy with business operations.
He brings a practical, culture-driven approach to risk management and is passionate about embedding security into the DNA of complex, global enterprises.
Recognition includes:
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- Led cybersecurity transformation across IT and manufacturing operations
- Strong emphasis on cultivating a security-first mindset across all levels of the organization
- Proven ability to drive risk management and compliance within evolving digital landscapes
3 Key Questions We Answer
- How do CISOs integrate cybersecurity into industrial and operational technologies?
- What’s the role of culture in managing risk across diverse environments?
- How can teams bridge traditional IT controls with modern OT resilience?
Key Takeaways
- Manufacturing environments demand customized, process-based security integration.
- Culture is foundational—technology follows behavior.
- CISOs must work across the business to turn risk into a shared operational goal.