Modern CISO Network: Board Book

Nicole Darden Ford is Vice President, Global Security and Chief Information Security Officer at Rockwell Automation. As the company’s cybersecurity leader, Nicole is entrusted to protect enterprise technology assets with scalable, future-ready platforms that enable the business. She has guided complex organizations through security transformation journeys, built best-in-class cybersecurity programs and led high-performing teams. Nicole has 20-plus years of strategic technology leadership in the corporate sector and federal government, including the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Prior to her role at Rockwell Automation, Nicole was the Chief Information Security Officer at Carrier Global Corporation, where she established Carrier’s cybersecurity program and initiatives that aligned with enterprise goals. Under Nicole’s leadership, Carrier teams were working to monetize cybersecurity by incorporating security features in products and developing security-as-a-service solutions to be sold to customers. Known as a future-focused technology executive, Nicole is most skilled at designing and executing complex business strategies, building best-in-class cybersecurity programs, and developing and leading high performing teams.

Nicole Darden Ford is recognized as an influential communicator, accountable business partner and professional, who confidently adjusts to change in a rapidly evolving threat landscape. In addition to building cybersecurity programs for organizations across industries including manufacturing, healthcare and legal, Nicole has helped position two enterprises for IPOs.

Outside of the office, Nicole serves as a member on several cybersecurity and technology advisory boards to share knowledge with peers and determine how to combat ever-changing risks. Board memberships include the Cybersecurity Collaborative, Evanta CISO Governing Body, Team 8, CHIEF. Additionally, she currently serves on a nonprofit board, The Lola Mercedes Parker Foundation.