GovSec

Conference Keynotes

The Conference Keynote is Open to Registered Conference Attendees Only

Randy Vickers, Director, United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team, National Cybersecurity Division, Department of Homeland Security

Randy Vickers is the Director of the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) within the National Cybersecurity Division at the Department of Homeland Security.  As the Director for the US-CERT, Mr. Vickers is responsible for the operational mission of the US-CERT.  US-CERT is responsible for analyzing and reducing cyber threats and vulnerabilities in Federal networks, disseminating cyber threat warning information, and coordinating incident response activities. 

Additionally, Mr. Vickers partners with law enforcement and intelligence agencies, including the FBI, DIA, NSA, and CIA, on intelligence gathering, technical analysis, computer crime investigations, and prosecution of individuals or organizations involved in compromising U.S. Government assets.

Prior to US-CERT, Mr. Vickers served as the Chief of the Department of Defense Computer Emergency Response Team (DOD-CERT) at the Joint Task Force, Global Network Operations.  In this role, he led a team of technical experts focused on Net Defense operational reviews of all enemy actions against DoD Networks.  He conducted threat level assessments, correlated network incidents across the DoD Global Information Grid, and developed DOD-wide security countermeasures and implementation strategies. 

Tim Paydos, Director, IBM Threat Prediction and Prevention

As Director, IBM Threat Prediction & Prevention, Tim Paydos is responsible for IBM's strategy in support of government agencies who seek to detect and respond to threat, crime and fraud in real time. He is a seasoned professional with over 15 years in the field. Experiences outside IBM include Customer Business Development and Operations for Procter & Gamble, Vice President of Strategy at Syncra Systems. Through his career Tim has worked with a wide range of clients , including several elements of US DHS, DOJ and DOD, along with commercial banks and insurance companies. Tim holds a BA from Harvard University, lives in Connecticut, has two daughters, and for relaxation serves as a nationally certified fire/rescue instructor and Captain in the Simsbury Fire Department.