The rapid adoption of AI presents an unprecedented opportunity to transform the public sector. At the same time, the acceleration of AI increases the opportunities for threat actors to advance their attacks During this discussion, we'll explore real world applications of AI and use cases for the public sector, where leaders are focusing their efforts to harness AI’s potential and mitigate security risks and strategies for building a secure, compliant and responsible framework for harnessing AI.

Mr. Ford has over 30 years of experience in cybersecurity, crisis response, and intelligence-led cyber operations within both government and commercial sectors. Prior to his current role at Mandiant, Mr. Ford held executive leadership positions at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), where he oversaw strategic and tactical global cyber operations and key asset protection for the U.S. Cryptologic Centers. During his tenure, Mr. Ford developed the U.S. Government's risk management framework for cyber threats to government and critical infrastructure, receiving recognition from the White House National Security Council and the United States Congress.

Currently, Mr. Ford serves as the Head of Mandiant’s public sector market and professional services, leading operations, strategy, and solutions for global partners. He also spearheads Mandiant’s Insider Threat risk solutions globally. Mr. Ford guides boards of directors and executives on enterprise risk management and is a frequent speaker at industry conferences.

Mr. Ford serves as an adjunct professor teaching advanced curricula on cybersecurity and risk frameworks at St. Mary’s University. Mr. Ford is a graduate of Harvard, John F. Kennedy School on Cybersecurity Policy; and a graduate of Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Business in Strategic Change Leadership. He is a member of the Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace and the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise. Additionally, Mr. Ford founded and architected Mandiant's Elevate program, which aims to advance women in IT security into senior leadership and board positions.