Theresa Payton is an internationally renowned expert on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data privacy and digital transformation. As the first woman to serve as Chief Information Officer at the White House, she made history under US President George W. Bush.
Today, she advises boards, CEOs and technology leaders of international companies on how to drive digital innovation securely, protect critical business assets and harness the opportunities of emerging technologies responsibly.
Before leading the White House IT organisation, Theresa Payton held senior technology positions at two major US financial institutions. After her time in Washington, she founded the cybersecurity companies Dark3 and Fortalice Solutions. As CEO and Chief Advisor of Fortalice, she supports companies and organisations in preventing cyberattacks, developing future-ready security strategies and managing digital crises and data breaches professionally.
Theresa Payton’s Keynote Topics
- AI and the Future of Us: Navigating the Promise and Perils of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is fundamentally transforming business, security and everyday life. Theresa Payton shows organisations how to unlock the potential of AI without underestimating the new risks it creates. Through real-world case studies and compelling live demonstrations, she reveals how cybercriminals use AI for manipulation, fraud and attacks. Audiences leave with practical recommendations for using the technology securely and responsibly.
- Secured Digital Transformation: Innovating Without Compromising Trust
How can companies accelerate digital innovation while protecting their data, systems and reputation? Theresa Payton shares practical strategies for secure digital transformation. She explains why cybersecurity must be embedded in every innovation strategy from the very beginning and how organisations can strengthen trust, resilience and long-term future readiness.
- From the White House to Your House: Leadership and Life Lessons
In this personal keynote, Theresa Payton shares her journey to becoming the first female CIO of the White House, her career as an entrepreneur and her life as a wife and mother of three. She speaks about resilience, responsibility, purpose and courageous leadership in challenging situations. Her inspiring message encourages audiences to embrace change, remain true to their values and lead with confidence in every role they take on.
Theresa Payton is one of the most sought-after voices at the intersection of technology, security and leadership.
She has a rare ability to explain complex digital issues in a clear, engaging and jargon-free way. In her keynotes, she combines the latest insights with real-world case studies, anonymised stories from the front lines of cybercrime prevention and powerful live demonstrations. She reveals how modern cybercriminals operate, which new risks are emerging through artificial intelligence and how businesses and individuals can protect themselves effectively.
Theresa Payton does not rely on fearmongering. Instead, she provides direction, raises awareness and equips her audiences with practical actions they can implement immediately. Her central message is clear: innovation, data privacy and cybersecurity are not opposing forces. Security and trust are the foundations of successful and sustainable digital transformation.
As the inventor of patented security solutions, Theresa Payton closely examines emerging attack methods and technological developments. Her areas of expertise include artificial intelligence, Big Data, the Internet of Things, data privacy, disinformation and the protection of critical infrastructure.
Theresa Payton is also a regularly featured expert in international media. She has appeared on “The Today Show”, “Good Morning America”, Fox Business, CBS News, CNN, NBC News and MSNBC, among others. She also became known to a wider audience through the CBS series “Hunted”. As Deputy Commander of Intelligence, she was part of a highly skilled investigative team that used modern analytical, security and tracking methods to locate participants attempting to disappear.
Theresa Payton is the author of several books on IT strategy, cybersecurity and digital manipulation. Her book “Manipulated: Inside the Cyberwar to Hijack Elections and Distort the Truth” explores how cyberattacks, disinformation and digital influence can threaten democratic processes.
Why Book Theresa Payton?
Theresa Payton combines exceptional technological expertise with strategic foresight, leadership experience and an approachable stage presence. Her keynotes are insightful, entertaining and highly relevant. She makes complex subjects accessible and shows audiences how innovation, security, trust and responsible leadership can be successfully combined.