Phoenix Chapter Officers
Walter Opaska
President
A CISSP and member of (ISC)2 since 1994, Walter has had over thirty five years work and management experience in cybersecurity and IT audit with Federal government agencies, Inspectors General, and contractors. Besides being a CISSP, he is also a CISA, an MBA, and a CPA licensed in two states, Arizona and North Carolina. Previously, Walter was Treasurer of the Quantico, Virginia (ISC)2 Chapter. In addition to Treasurer, he served as Quantico’s Membership Chair. An experienced presenter, Walter spoke at meetings for the Quantico and Richmond, Virginia (ISC)2 Chapters on The Default Password Conundrum.
Walter currently holds Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Shaun Angley
Vice President & VP of Membership
Throughout his 20+ year career, Shaun has worked in most IT disciplines and held many roles. He has experience building and managing IT operations and IT teams across multiple industries. Over the past 8+ years, Shaun has been working in various Cybersecurity disciplines and formally transitioned into a full time Information Security Management role in January of 2022 where he leads Information Security at an insurance company.
Shaun currently holds Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Larry Heinz
Treasurer
Larry currently holds Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Josh Howard
Secretary
Like many, Josh entered cyberecurity from software development. Experienced in managing small teams, groups, internal and external stakeholders, Josh spent time performing “Shadow IT", to for a group of BIM modelers. Later, Josh moved to the software development industry and actively works to balance the needs of development with requirements of adequate controls.
Josh currently holds Certified Cloud Security Professional (CSSP).
Marcos Saiz
VP, Programs
Marcos Saiz is a cybersecurity professional with over 20 years of experience in the information security industry. He has extensive experience in enterprise risk management, security architecture, incident response, and cybersecurity operations. As CISO at TBC, he is responsible for Managed Cybersecurity Services which includes GRC, 24x7 SOC, and xTDR. Marcos also serves a member of the Air National Guard, working part-time as an incident responder with AZ-DHS.
Marcos currently holds Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO) certifications.
Vacant
VP, Communications
The Chapter's Vice President of Communications position is available
Vacant
VP, External Relations
The Chapter's Vice President of External Relations is available
Akash Verma
Director-at-Large
Akash is a seasoned cybersecurity professional bringing over a decade of expertise in threat intelligence, information security, and technology risk management. With a track record of spearheading critical projects in renowned organizations like Google, LinkedIn and Discover Financial Services, he excels in operational risk and regulatory compliance.
Akash holds multiple certifications including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), and ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), alongside a Master's in Information Systems and BE in Electronics Engineering
Alfred "Griff" Griffith
Director-at-Large
Griff's experience includes two decades of experience implementing technology security strategies and deploying highly successful data protection technologies. He have engineered, deployed and overseen a host of security and data protection technologies, processes, and security awareness training modules.
Griff currently holds Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Cloud Computing Security Professional (CCSP).
Robert Swannie
Director-at-Large
Rob Swannie is a dynamic leader renowned for his exceptional track record in constructing robust, scalable, and secure infrastructure, as well as assembling high-performing support teams. Rob has consistently demonstrated his prowess in establishing secure and redundant systems, ensuring the utmost reliability in critical operations. Rob's strategic insights and ability to identify and capitalize on emerging trends have propelled these companies into new dimensions of growth and influence. Beyond infrastructure, Rob's expertise extends into the realm of manufacturing networks. Through meticulous planning and execution, Rob has been instrumental in ensuring that operations not only meet but exceed industry standards for efficiency and reliability.
Rob currently holds Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Board Candidacy Application and Additional Information
We are looking for exceptional people to volunteer and help the Chapter succeed in providing information security content, CPEs, and networking opportunities to Arizona's cyber community. Click here to apply and join the Chapter Board.
Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Chapter's Secretary via email:
president@isc2chapter-phoenix.org