Sign In

Kelly Harward

Product Leader @ F5 - Internet & Cyber Security - Strategy - Startups

Professional Background

Kelly Harward is a distinguished cybersecurity expert with over two decades of extensive experience in a variety of sectors, including cybersecurity, application security, and information security. Throughout her career, she has established herself as a prominent strategy and technology leader, renowned for her ability to forge and lead high-performing teams dedicated to delivering market-winning products.

Currently, Kelly serves as the Director of Product Management at F5 Networks, where she continues to drive forward the mission she first embarked on at Shape Security—that is, to ensure that every application on the web is secure and operates without friction. In her role, she not only exemplifies her extensive industry knowledge but also highlights her commitment to creating seamless, secure digital experiences for users worldwide.

Before her tenure at F5 Networks and Shape Security, Kelly played an instrumental role in the establishment of Forcepoint through a strategic joint venture between Raytheon and Websense. As the Director of Product Management for Forcepoint's endpoint product line, she guided all aspects of product management for crucial cybersecurity solutions, including Data Loss Prevention, Secure Web Gateway, Insider Threat, and Next-Gen Firewall products. Kelly's leadership in this capacity allowed Forcepoint to become a key player in the cybersecurity landscape, known for its comprehensive endpoint solutions that protect organizations from internal and external threats.

Kelly's impactful journey began with her work at Raytheon, where she provided visionary product leadership that positioned the company as a dominant force in the federal cybersecurity market. She originally joined Raytheon through its acquisition of Oakley Networks, an innovative, early-stage cybersecurity startup funded by top-tier venture capital firms. At Oakley, Kelly excelled as a Principal Software Engineer and early product development leader, where her knack for recognizing and capitalizing on unique market opportunities became evident.

In addition to her exceptional technical expertise, Kelly possesses a natural affinity for entrepreneurship, often demonstrating her capacity to identify differentiated market opportunities and effectively drive organizational execution to seize those opportunities fully.

Education and Achievements

Kelly Harward's academic background lays a strong foundation for her successful career in cybersecurity. She holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Utah and has furthered her education with an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Brigham Young University's Marriott School of Management. This combination of technical education and business acumen enables her to approach cybersecurity challenges from both a strategic and operational perspective, making her an invaluable asset to any organization.

Her educational journey also includes studies at George Mason University, contributing to her well-rounded knowledge and skills in the field of technology and business. Kelly's commitment to lifelong learning and professional development has continuously enhanced her abilities and established her as a leader in her field.

Notable Achievements

  • Director of Product Management at F5 Networks: Currently leads product initiatives aimed at securing web applications, benefiting organizations with her expert insights and strategic direction.
  • Director of Product Management at Shape Security: Played a crucial role in advancing application security technologies to ensure seamless digital user experiences.
  • Director of Product Management, Endpoint Portfolio at Forcepoint: Oversaw the launch and management of various products designed to combat cybersecurity threats, significantly enhancing organizational security measures.
  • Director of Product Management at Raytheon Cyber Products, Inc.: Led efforts that solidified Raytheon’s position as a key player in federal cybersecurity.
  • Background in Startups: As a Principal Software Engineer at Oakley Networks, she contributed to building innovative cybersecurity solutions funded by venture capital, showcasing her strong entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Expertise Across Sectors: Kelly has worked in various capacities, including roles at UnitedHealth Group and Paltech, emphasizing her adaptability and wide-ranging knowledge in cybersecurity and application development.

In conclusion, Kelly Harward is not just a seasoned professional but a leader whose insights and direction have shaped the landscape of cybersecurity. Her impressive career highlights a blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and entrepreneurial spirit, making her a sought-after expert and mentor in the industry. As she continues to innovate and lead in her field, Kelly remains committed to advancing cybersecurity and application security, ensuring that technology is both secure and user-friendly.

Related Questions

How did Kelly Harward develop her leadership skills in product management within the cybersecurity industry?
What motivated Kelly Harward to focus her career on application security and cybersecurity solutions?
In what ways has Kelly Harward's education influenced her approach to product management and innovation in cybersecurity?
How has Kelly Harward contributed to the advancement of cybersecurity through her various roles in significant companies?
What specific initiatives has Kelly implemented at F5 Networks to enhance web application security?
Kelly Harward
Add to my network

Location

Draper, Utah, United States