Monte Ratzlaff has been promoted to the University of California system’s chief information security officer (CISO). He will report to Vice President of Information Technology Services and Chief Information Officer Van Williams, with a dotted line to Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Rachael Nava.

Decades of experience

Monte Ratzlaff, chief information security officer for the UC system.

Monte has more than two decades of information security experience and has been a cornerstone of UC’s cybersecurity efforts since joining the university in 2010. In 2015, he launched the UC Cyber-risk Coordination Center (C3) to provide advanced threat intelligence, real-time monitoring and coordinated response across the system. (C3 has transformed into UC Digital Risk and Security — a change that reflects the expanded focus on digital risk management and security across the UC system.) He served as interim CISO from 2021 to 2022 and again assumed the interim role beginning in 2023.

Under Monte’s leadership, UC has significantly strengthened its cyber community, expanded its cyber governance, established a set of shared cybersecurity metrics, improved systemwide cyber readiness, enhanced our cyber insurance posture, expanded the use of shared threat intelligence tools and built a robust community of practice among campus security leaders.

Advancing governance, policies and community

In recent years, Monte has played a central role in maturing UC’s information security governance and advancing systemwide policies and standards. His focus on transparency, risk-based decision-making and collaboration has significantly strengthened UC’s ability to protect institutional data while supporting its mission of teaching, research and public service.

Monte has always prioritized collaboration and has created many opportunities for the UC security community to grow and connect. He led the UC Tech Academy’s Digital Risk Leadership Program and founded the UC Tech Applied Intelligence Mentorship Program, supporting leaders in navigating emerging threats. He also spearheaded efforts to deliver engaging, high-impact events like the UC Cybersecurity Summit, which brings together hundreds of professionals each year to share knowledge and bolster UC’s collective defenses.

The Importance of the CISO role

In today’s digital age, the chief information security officer (CISO) role is more critical than ever. CISOs safeguard an organization’s information and data from cyber threats. They oversee the development and implementation of security policies, manage risk and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Their leadership is essential in navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape, making them indispensable to any institution.

Monte’s CISO role is a pivotal leadership position within the university. Tasked with managing digital risk governance across the UC system, this role necessitates close collaboration with UC leaders in Risk, Audit, Legal and Compliance, and with key stakeholders across all locations.

“I am confident that he [Monte] will continue to excel in this role and make significant contributions to the University of California,” said Williams.

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