richard.starnes@outlook.com

Richard R. Starnes is a highly accomplished, award-winning cybersecurity executive with a proven history of success in the public and private sectors. As an early adopter and champion of AI, he has consistently seen the potential for streamlining corporate cybersecurity functions while increasing effectiveness. He has held Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) positions at Six Degrees Group, Capgemini, and Kentucky Health Cooperative, where he developed and implemented robust information security strategies, policies, and procedures that demonstrably reduced the frequency and severity of breaches.

His extensive experience includes leading large cybersecurity teams and managing substantial budgets in complex, highly regulated environments such as the London Metropolitan Police Service, Heathrow Airport, and Direct Line Group. He has consistently delivered strategic and operational cybersecurity management in these roles, interfacing directly with board-level stakeholders. A notable highlight of his career was serving as the Officer in Charge for Cybersecurity for Operation London Bridge, the state funeral for Queen Elizabeth II, a testament to his expertise in securing high-stakes, critical national events. He has a proven track record of successfully guiding companies through rigorous audits to achieve and maintain numerous critical certifications, including ISO27001, Cyber Essentials Plus, and SOC Type 2.

Mr. Starnes is deeply dedicated to education, mentorship, and strengthening the broader cybersecurity community. He actively contributes as a Liveryman in the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists (WCIT), where he serves as the Chair for the Security Panel. He also serves as a Non-Executive Director for the Cyber Resilience Centre for London, providing vital support to small businesses, and as a School Governor for Lenham School, offering strategic guidance. He is passionate about developing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, a commitment demonstrated by his work as a frequent guest lecturer at prestigious institutions including the University of Oxford, Internet Institute, Global Cyber Security Capacity Centre (GCSCC), Saïd Business School, and the London School of Economics. He holds a Master of Science in Information Security from Royal Holloway, University of London and is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).