Herbert J. Mattord
Herbert Mattord, Ph.D., CISM, CISSP, is a Professor of Cybersecurity at Kennesaw State University, a consultant with the Security Executive Council, and a widely respected author and educator in the field of information security. For more than three decades, Herb has worked at the intersection of academia, industry, and professional practice, helping shape how cybersecurity is taught, governed, and applied in real-world organizations.
At Kennesaw State University, Herb has spent over 23 years in progressively senior roles, including Professor, Interim Chair, and Director of Education and Outreach. He has played a central role in building and expanding cybersecurity education programs, mentoring students, and leading strategic outreach through KSU’s Institute for Cybersecurity Education Research and Practice. His work has helped prepare thousands of students and professionals for careers in cybersecurity, risk management, and information assurance.
In parallel with his academic career, Herb has served as a consultant with the Security Executive Council since 2011, advising organizations on information security governance, policy development, incident response, and contingency planning. He is known for his ability to bridge academic research with practical application, helping organizations strengthen resilience, improve compliance, and translate cybersecurity strategy into operational reality.
Earlier in his career, Herb held corporate security leadership roles at Georgia-Pacific Corporation, where he served as Manager of Technical Information Security. In that role, he was responsible for information security operations and governance within a large, complex enterprise environment. He has also been a General Partner at Security Professors, LLC since 2005, providing consulting, education, and thought leadership across the cybersecurity domain.
Herb is widely recognized as an innovator in cybersecurity education. He is a co-author of several leading textbooks in information security and incident response that are used globally in academic programs and professional training. These works have helped establish academic and professional standards and continue to influence how cybersecurity is taught and practiced.
Deeply committed to advancing the profession, Herb leads the KSU Cybersecurity Speaker Series and directs the KSU Cybersecurity Mentoring and Coaching Program, initiatives that connect students with practitioners and industry leaders around the world. He is a frequent speaker and organizer of cybersecurity education events and an active contributor to professional development and cross-sector collaboration efforts.
A lifelong learner, Herb holds a Ph.D. in Information Systems from Nova Southeastern University and completed postgraduate coursework in Accounting at the University of Texas at Austin. He maintains industry certifications including Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and continues to pursue professional development in emerging technologies and modern teaching practices.
As a mentor and educator, Herb is known for his authentic, student-focused approach to teaching and career guidance. Through mentoring, coaching, and curriculum development, he has had a global impact on the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and remains a trusted voice in shaping the future of cybersecurity education and leadership.
Visionary Leaders are practitioners helping shape the future of corporate security. They move beyond traditional program management to expand security’s role as a strategic business function. Through innovation, leadership, and a willingness to share their experience, they contribute to the advancement of the profession. The Security Executive Council recognizes these leaders for their ongoing influence and engagement within the security community.
