Paul Kurtz

Paul is a seasoned leader with extensive experience addressing some of the most pressing national security challenges, including counter-terrorism, non-proliferation of weapons, protection of critical infrastructure, and cybersecurity. His career spans government, non-profits, and the private sector, where he has held roles such as Special Assistant to the President on the National Security Council, managing partner for a consulting firm's overseas operations, and co-founder of a venture-funded cybersecurity company.

Career highlights include serving on the ground as a weapons inspector in Iraq and North Korea, acting as Political Advisor in Northern Iraq, coordinating the immediate response to the September 11 attacks, and planning a national cyber defense program. Paul also turned a groundbreaking idea to automate cyber intelligence management into a successful venture that Splunk ultimately acquired.

Currently, Paul serves as Chief Cybersecurity Advisor & Field CTO at Splunk, a Cisco company. In this role, he advises organizations on cybersecurity strategies and innovation, leveraging his vast experience in both leadership and technology.