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Tiernan Connolly
Executive Director - Information Security Mgt at JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Professional Background
Tiernan Connolly is an energetic and forward-thinking leader recognized for his exceptional contributions to the fields of technology, security, and risk management within large multinational organizations. With a remarkable career charting numerous high-profile roles across different sectors, Tiernan has built a robust reputation for developing high-functioning technology and security operations teams. He is adept at formulating strategies that not only align with organizational goals but also address the evolving challenges in the digital landscape.
Throughout his impressive tenure, Tiernan has demonstrated his expertise in Cloud Transformation and Adoption, handling advanced platforms such as AWS, Azure, O365, Citrix Cloud, and SaaS models. This experience positions him as a go-to expert in modern technology integration and digital security. Moreover, his deep technical knowledge, combined with extensive experience in defining risk appetites and governance frameworks, uniquely qualifies him to develop and enforce effective policies that bolster organizational security against a backdrop of increasing regulatory requirements.
As the Executive Director of Information Security at JPMorgan Chase & Co., Tiernan has taken on the critical responsibility of overseeing the organization’s information security posture. His ability to lead global teams effectively has facilitated improved workflows while decreasing operational costs. In his previous roles, including that of Intelligence Advisor at ENISA, Tiernan contributed insightful assessments that have been vital for shaping European network and information security policies. His strategic involvement in M&A integration showcases his versatility and adaptability in various business scenarios.
Education and Achievements
Tiernan Connolly’s educational foundation is rooted in comprehensive studies in technology and information security. He is a holder of a BSC (Hons) in Network Management and Design from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen. His commitment to professional development is evident through certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and accolades in optical networking from Adva ACE. Additionally, his educational pursuits in Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) underscore his dedication to mastering industry-standard frameworks and principles.
As an accomplished speaker, Tiernan has shared his insights and experiences across various esteemed platforms, including the ENISA Intelligence Conference, FS-ISAC Europe, the British Banking Association, and the Irish Information Security Forum. His presentations on critical topics related to information security have not only enhanced public understanding of prevailing issues but have also established him as a thought leader in the security space.
Achievements
Some of Tiernan's notable achievements include:
- Successfully leading the technology and security operations at MUFG Investor Services, where he served in multiple leadership roles, culminating as Global Head of Technology and Security Operations and Chief Information Officer.
- Providing valuable intelligence as an advisor to ENISA, actively participating in shaping strategic security frameworks at the European level.
- A proven record in vendor and supplier risk management, having developed and implemented effective governance policies that mitigate risk and enhance compliance.
- Establishing and managing lean, effective global teams that have consistently exceeded performance benchmarks through innovative strategies and collaborative practices.
- Contributing to risk, regulatory, compliance, and controls initiatives through prominent frameworks like NIST, COBIT, and ISO2700X, which have significantly strengthened organizational resilience.
In every role, Tiernan has proven himself as a leader who values both technical proficiency and strategic insight, ensuring his teams are equipped to tackle the challenges of today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. His well-rounded experience across major financial entities allows him to bring a multifaceted perspective that supports both operational excellence and future-forward innovation.
