Modern CISO Network: Board Book

Kevin P. Gowen is an experienced strategic cybersecurity and technology executive with an extensive background in cyber, operational, and third-party risk. He has developed strategies for cybersecurity and fraud, created and implemented a third-party risk management program, and led transformation initiatives that had significant strategic and financial impact. Kevin also brings leadership experience in enterprise-wide initiatives, including digital transformation, cloud computing, and technology modernization. Kevin is National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) Director Certified.

Kevin actively participates in industry organizations, serving on the board of the nonprofit National Technology Security Coalition, industry advisory boards, and Columbus State University’s School of Cybersecurity. He is a frequent speaker and panelist on cybersecurity, cyber and technology risk and governance, and third-party risk management topics. Kevin’s article “Bridging the Gap – Enabling More Constructive Discussions Between Boards and CISOs” was published in The Board Risk Committee’s Board Risk Report in November 2021. He has been recognized for his contributions including being named Information Security Executive (ISE)/Tech Exec Network Information Security Executive of the Year in 2022.

As Synovus’ CISO since 2015, he has regular interactions with the Synovus Board of Directors and Risk Committee on topics related to cybersecurity, financial crimes, privacy, and security. Kevin also serves as a member of Synovus’ Executive Risk Committee; Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Governance Council; and Operational Risk Committee. Along with his strategic and operational responsibilities, he leads interactions with regulatory agencies on technology, cybersecurity, third-party risk, and technology governance.

Prior to his current role, Kevin served in IT senior leadership roles responsible for strategic planning and operations of enterprise infrastructure and technology, customer channel solutions, in-branch retail technology and systems, and enterprise communications. Prior to joining Synovus, he held engineering, sales, and management roles at IBM, including developing and implementing technology, marketing, and support strategies aligned with customers’ business strategies.