Brett Hardman

security leader. builder. accidental ciso._

About

I'm a security leader based in Sweden. Originally from Arizona, I made my way to the Nordics and eventually became a Swedish citizen. My career started in software engineering — building things, breaking things, understanding how systems work from the inside out.

Over time that path led me into information security, where I now work as a CISO building security programs that actually scale. I focus on turning compliance and risk management from cost centers into genuine business differentiators.

I speak fluent Russian, which has given me a different lens on European security dynamics and the information environment.

Experience

Over 25 years in technology.

ISO 27001 GRC Risk Management Security Architecture Cloud Security Privacy & Data Protection Software Engineering

Interests

Beyond the day-to-day of security operations, I'm drawn to the bigger picture — how information flows, how it's weaponized, and how societies defend against manipulation. Information warfare and the mis- and disinformation landscape in Europe are areas I follow closely.

I'm increasingly interested in the evolving intersection of data privacy, cyber governance, and law — particularly how the European regulatory environment is shaping the future of digital trust.

When I have time, I try to stay current on privacy & security developments and geopolitics — though I'll admit the reading list grows faster than I can keep up.

Connect

The best way to reach me is on LinkedIn. Open to conversations about security leadership, GRC, privacy, or anything at the intersection of technology and trust.

→ LinkedIn