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Securing Talent: Building and Retaining High-Performance Cybersecurity Teams by Dr. Kevin Lynn McLaughlin, PhD, offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration into the critical role culture plays in the cybersecurity field.
List of contents
Acknowledgements
· Personal Gratitude and Mentors
· Chapter Key Points
Chapter 1: The Foundation of Cybersecurity Success - Culture & Talent Retention
· The Importance of Culture
· Chapter 1 Notable Passages and key points
Chapter 2: Leadership in Action - Setting the Cybersecurity Culture from the Top
· The importance of top-down leadership in building and retaining a strong cybersecurity team
· Chapter 2 Notable Passages and key points
Chapter 3: Leadership Shadow - Shaping Cybersecurity Culture Through Norms & Values
· Leadership norms and Culture
· Chapter 3 Notable Passages and key points
Chapter 4: Elevating Cybersecurity Culture & Retention
· Building Cultures That Retain and Empower
· Chapter 4 Notable Passages and key points
Chapter 5: Practical advice for creating the Pillars of Cybersecurity Culture
· Trust, Respect, and Purpose
· Chapter 5 Notable Passages and key points
Chapter 6: Servant Leadership, Positive Energy, and Trust in Cybersecurity
· Prioritizing the Growth of Team Members
· Chapter 6 Notable Passages and key points
Bonus Thoughts: Advanced Leadership Tools and Concepts
· Psychological Safety in Communication
· BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front) Principle for Email Efficiency
· Incorporating Gamification for Team Engagement
Bibliography
About the author
Kevin Lynn McLaughlin, PhD, is a renowned cybersecurity leader with over 30 years of experience in global security, risk management, and compliance. Throughout his career, he has led teams of more than 250 professionals, crafting and implementing world-class cybersecurity programs that protect critical assets, data, and reputations while driving business growth and resilience. Kevin's expertise lies in aligning cybersecurity initiatives with organizational objectives, delivering innovative and cost-effective solutions that meet the challenges of an evolving digital landscape.
Kevin's career spans military service, law enforcement, and corporate security, providing him with a broad perspective on cybersecurity leadership. As a U.S. Army veteran , former U.S. Special Agent and police officer, he contributed to critical law enforcement efforts, experiences that shaped his proactive approach to leadership and cybersecurity strategy. These roles instilled a deep understanding of the complexities involved in defending organizations against modern threats.
As an IEEE Senior Fellow, Kevin holds an impressive array of certifications, including CISSP, CISM, CRISC, CEH, GIAC-GSLC, and C|CISO. Beyond his technical credentials, he is deeply committed to sharing knowledge and advancing the cybersecurity profession. Through his work as an author, speaker, educator, and advisor, Kevin demystifies complex cybersecurity challenges, empowering organizations and individuals to better defend themselves against emerging threats. A passionate advocate for fostering strong team cultures, Kevin emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and innovation as the cornerstones of effective cybersecurity practices. His leadership philosophy inspires teams to remain adaptable and resilient in the face of challenges, ensuring that organizations are well-equipped to protect their digital futures. Kevin's contributions to the field have earned him recognition as a thought leader, dedicated to shaping a safer and more secure digital world.
