Adina Saposnik, EMBA '09
Former Vice President – Technology & Chief Information Security Officer, Ontario Health
I am a multifaceted technology executive with extensive technology, cyber security and governance experience in progressive organizations across diverse industries, both in public and private sector.
I led turn-around, and growth initiatives, strategy and digital transformation and I drove accelerated change during times of adversity. I leverage a strong background in regulatory and technical risk-based compliance initiatives. I have a proven, result-focused track record of managing, motivating and leading teams toward common strategic goals, making critical and time-sensitive decisions and applying sound judgement to maximize operational stability. Moreover, I am recognized for the ability to bridge between technology and business units and a I have a strong Board presence.
I graduated in the top 10% of the Executive MBA class at Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto and I am the winner of the CIBC Chairman’s Award.
Over the last several years and as Vice President – Technology and Chief Information Security Officer at Ontario Health, I conducted the transformation of a large technology organization operating on a budget of $100M+. I led the Implementation of the agile development methodology, including a repeatable set of processes to ensure operational currency, efficiency, and sustainability, underpinned by strong governance.
I built a new, independently assessed ‘best in class’ cyber security program and practice, strategically structured along four key pillars of the eco system: Governance, Defense, Resilience and Consulting. Consequently, the cyber security organization attained a higher degree of operational effectiveness, to better align with business objectives. I introduced the ‘Sec’ in the ‘DevOps’. As a result, no data breaches or compromises happened during my tenure.
Previously, I held progressive IT senior leadership and executive management positions with financial institutions (CDS, AMEX, Sun Life, CIBC), retail (Hbc) and telecom (the ISP Excite @Home and Bell Canada).
Currently I advise on strategy and leadership in the technology and cyber security space for organizations in both the private and public sector, including the manufacturing, municipal and financial institutions. I teach Cyber Security Risk Management at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies.
I am the proud mother of two sons. I enjoy swimming, downhill skiing, classical music and the ballet and I am passionate about helping the younger generations to develop and strengthen their leadership skills and their business acumen.