Cybersecurity Advisory | AI/ML Governance | Data & Risk Management
We are committed to helping organizations navigate today’s most complex challenges — cybersecurity, privacy, and AI/ML risk with clarity, confidence, and control.
At Cyberdiligent, we deliver expert advisory and CISO-as-a-Service solutions that align security, compliance, and innovation. Our approach empowers leaders to manage risk strategically, meet evolving regulatory demands, and harness emerging technologies responsibly.
From the boardroom to the SOC, we stand with our clients as trusted partners — delivering actionable insight, real-world execution, and measurable impact in every engagement.
Russell is a transformational cybersecurity, risk, privacy, and AI/ML governance executive with over 25 years of cross-industry experience spanning technology, financial services (fintechs, banks, insurance), retail, technology products, and telecommunications.
As a recognized thought leader and trusted advisor to boards, C-suites, and executive teams, he has consistently delivered enterprise-wide security strategies that balance innovation, compliance, and resilience.
He is the Founder and Principal Consultant at Cyberdiligent, a Dallas-based advisory firm that helps through strategic engagements focused on strengthening cybersecurity posture, ensuring regulatory compliance, advancing AI/ML governance, and building high-impact risk management programs.
Russell is a Cybersecurity C-Suite and Teams Advisor (Faculty) at the Institute of Advanced Network Security (IANS), where he contributes to the global security community through research, education, and executive consulting.
Russell served as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Data Privacy Officer at Pacific Premier Bank and CISO at Apex Fintech Solutions. He also built the IT Risk program at Mr. Cooper, the largest Fitch-rated mortgage servicer in the U.S., overseeing cybersecurity for over 4.2 million customers.
Russell, a dynamic and sought-after speaker, has shared his insights at global events, including the 2022 Africa Fintech and 2024 Africa CISO Summits. His leadership has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Mortgage Bankers Future Leaders Award (2019), Cybersecurity Excellence – Team of the Year (2021), and selection as one of CyberDefense Magazine’s Top Global CISOs (2023).
He is on the Advisory Board of Deeptrack.io, an AI-driven startup in Kenya that focuses on secure and ethical AI implementation in the detection of deepfakes and KYC(identity verification).
“I founded Cyberdiligent to give organizations the clarity, confidence, and seasoned CISO-level expert guidance they need to manage cyber risk, not just react to it.”
The Strategist
Align business and cybersecurity goals to drive growth and resilience. We help leaders prioritize risks, optimize investments, and build programs that evolve with the business.
The Technologist
Architect modern security solutions using proven frameworks and emerging technologies. From IAM to AI, we deliver tech strategies grounded in business outcomes.
The Advisor
We collaborate to educate, guide, and influence key stakeholders—translating risk into language that business, product, and executive teams understand.
The Guardian
We protect what matters most. By staying ahead of the threat landscape, we help you build a proactive, defensible security posture.
Our Approach