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Cybersecurity expert & former White House CIO

Theresa Payton

Transform cybersecurity strategies with Theresa Payton, speaker and first female White House CIO. Theresa works with Fortune 500 companies to implement AI security solutions and digital resilience, delivering expert insights featured on CBS and in The Guardian's Top 10 Books.

Trusted by Thomson Reuters, Biocatch, Spark NZ, Curql, Financial Independence Group

Theresa Payton, Speaker | Cybersecurity Expert & Author
Theresa Payton

Theresa Payton

Charlotte, United States

Typical fee range

$26k–50k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Book Theresa

Charlotte, United States

Starting from

$26k–50k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Theresa Payton's biography

At a glance

  • First female White House Chief Information Officer
  • CEO of top cybersecurity consulting firm Fortalice Solutions
  • Cybersecurity expert featured on major television networks
Theresa Payton is a pioneering cybersecurity expert who made history as the first female White House Chief Information Officer. Her unique blend of government experience, technical knowledge, and business acumen positions her at the forefront of digital security and AI strategy. As CEO of Fortalice Solutions, a top-ranked cybersecurity consulting firm, Theresa advises Fortune 500 boards and executives on secure digital transformation. Her book "Manipulated" was named among The Guardian's Top 10 Books About Cybercrime, and she regularly appears as a security expert on major networks, including CBS, where she starred in the reality series "Hunted." Theresa helps organizations navigate today's complex digital landscape by identifying emerging threats before they become crises. Her patented security designs and practical approach to cybersecurity enable businesses to protect critical assets while embracing innovation. She translates complex technical concepts into actionable strategies, particularly in areas of AI implementation, data privacy, and operational resilience. Audiences leave Theresa's presentations with clear frameworks for assessing their security vulnerabilities, practical tools for improving their organization's digital hygiene, and strategic insights for balancing innovation with protection in an increasingly connected world. Book Theresa when you need a speaker who combines real-world cybersecurity expertise with the ability to make complex technological concepts accessible and actionable for any audience.

Theresa's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Navigating AI's Promises And Perils
In her engaging presentation, Theresa Payton explores the transformative power of artificial intelligence while addressing its associated risks. She highlights the impact of AI on businesses, security, and daily life, sharing anonymized stories from law enforcement and live demonstrations of modern cybercriminal tactics. Attendees will learn practical strategies to leverage AI's potential effectively while safeguarding themselves, their clients, and their organizations against its perils.
Digital Transformation Without Compromising Trust
In her talk, Theresa Payton emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation and security in today's digital landscape. She shares effective strategies for transforming operations and improving customer experiences while protecting critical assets. Through compelling case studies and actionable insights, Theresa equips attendees with the knowledge to future-proof their organizations and confidently navigate the challenges posed by cyber threats. Participants will learn how to drive transformation without compromising security.
Leadership And Life Lessons From The White House
Theresa Payton shares her inspiring journey of resilience as a business professional, wife, and mother of three, culminating in her role as White House CIO and CEO. As a leading voice in technology and cybersecurity, and a star of CBS's "Hunted," she draws from her experiences in high-stakes environments. Attendees will learn how to balance family, career, and purpose while embracing challenges and leading boldly in every aspect of life.

Why we recommend booking Theresa

Theresa Payton, the first female White House CIO and renowned cybersecurity expert, translates complex digital security concepts into actionable strategies that protect your organization while embracing innovation. Book this pioneering leader to equip your team with practical frameworks for addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities and navigating the evolving landscape of AI, data privacy, and digital transformation.

Check Theresa's availability

Trusted by Thomson Reuters, Biocatch, Spark NZ, Curql, Financial Independence Group

Testimonials

So well received — engaging, insightful, and we'd love to have her back.

Spark NZ

Loved her energy… relatable, refreshing, and inspiring.

Curql

Nothing but great feedback!

Financial Independence Group

Financial Independence Group

Featured Projects

Theresa Payton - Manipulated book cover
Theresa Payton - Hunted TV Series book cover
Theresa Payton - Privacy in the Age of Big Data book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Theresa Payton for my next event?
Email theresa.payton@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Theresa's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Theresa Payton's speaking style like?
Theresa Payton uses live demonstrations of cybercriminal tactics alongside anonymised law enforcement case studies to ground technical concepts in real-world scenarios, delivering attendees a framework for assessing security vulnerabilities and actionable strategies for AI implementation and digital resilience.

What topics does Theresa Payton specialise in?
Theresa Payton's sessions cover AI opportunities and risks, digital transformation and cybersecurity, and leadership lessons drawn from her time as White House CIO. She served as the first female White House Chief Information Officer and is CEO of Fortalice Solutions, with her book "Manipulated" listed in The Guardian's Top 10 Books About Cybercrime.

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Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

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A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

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Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

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Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

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