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David Sledge
David Sledge Director of Cybersecurity at Avelo Airlines

David Sledge is a highly trusted and experienced leader in the field of Information Technology with over 20 years of expertise. With a proven track record in IT operations, cybersecurity, data privacy, governance, compliance, and risk management, David excels at aligning IT strategies with corporate objectives. As a proactive collaborator and lifelong learner, David is skilled in translating complex technical information into practical and business-focused messages.

David is not only an industry ambassador but also a committed educator and advocate in the information technology, cybersecurity, and privacy communities. With his exemplary team building and project management abilities, David has been recognized as a leader in the field. In fact, in 2006, he was named Time Magazine's Person of the Year, showcasing his influence and impact in the industry.

Currently serving as the Director of Cybersecurity at Avelo Airlines, David is responsible for ensuring the security and protection of critical information within the organization. Prior to this, David held prominent positions at various companies, including Steady Cyber and Surge Energy America, where he successfully implemented cybersecurity solutions and led the IT departments. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance and has completed a Professional Certificate in Management from Rice Business - Jones Graduate School of Business.

More about this expert

Full name
David Sledge
Location
Greater Houston
Title
Director of Cybersecurity
Company
Avelo Airlines (since 2023)
Industry
Airlines and Aviation
LinkedIn Connections
2342
Summary
A trusted leader with more than 20 years in Information Technology leadership who excels in IT operations, cybersecurity, data privacy, governance, compliance, and risk management. A lifelong learner and proactive collaborator, a highly skilled communicator adept at translating complex technical information into business-focused messages, with a proven track record of aligning IT strategies with corporate objectives. Recognized as an industry ambassador, committed to educating, advocating, and expanding information technology, cybersecurity, and privacy communities, demonstrating exemplary team building and project management skills. In 2006, David was named Time Magazine's Person of the Year. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_(Time_Person_of_the_Year)#/media/File:Time_youcover01.jpg
Skills
Cybersecurity Information Technology

Education

Rice Business - Jones Graduate School of Business
The Management Incubator - Professional Certificate
Attended in 2020 - 2020
Field of study: Management
Western Governors University
Bachelor of Science - BS
Field of study: Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

Positions

Avelo Airlines
Houston, Texas, United States
Director of Cybersecurity
Oct 2023 - Present
Company Confidential
Houston, Texas, United States
Director of Cybersecurity & Data Privacy
May 2023 - Oct 2023
APQC
Houston, Texas, United States
Director of Information Technology
Mar 2022 - May 2023

APQC (American Productivity & Quality Center) is the world’s leading authority in benchmarking, best practices, process improvement, and knowledge management (KM). With over 1,000 member organizations globally, APQC provides the insights needed to support decision-making and cultivate internal expertise.
APQC Current Member List: https://www.apqc.org/members/alpha

The APQC Director of Information Technology holds a central leadership position as the organization's most senior IT role. The director develops the overall IT strategy and roadmap, ensuring alignment with the business's goals and objectives. Serving as the liaison between IT and other business units, the director is a key partner to executive leadership and department heads, providing crucial IT expertise, solutions, and support while providing frequent, clear, and consistent communication throughout the organization.
Steady Cyber
United States
Senior Information Technology Consultant – Cybersecurity, Compliance, and Risk
Feb 2020 - Mar 2022

Specializing in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, governance strategy, compliance assurance, risk management, and data privacy protection. With a team of certified experts, we guide organizations through the complex landscape of cyber threats, regulatory requirements, and evolving data protection standards. Delivering customized strategies that secure critical information, align with organizational goals, and foster a culture of security awareness. Empowering businesses to operate confidently, knowing their most sensitive data is safeguarded and their compliance posture is robust and resilient. Partner with us to transform your cybersecurity challenges into competitive advantages.

GDPR, CCPA, SOX, PCI DSS, GLBA, NIST, ISO, CMMC, CSA STAR, HIPPA / HITECH, FedRamp, FISMA
Surge Energy America
Houston, Texas
Information Technology Business Partner
Dec 2015 - Feb 2020

An independent oil and natural gas production company focused on developing and acquiring oil and natural gas reserves in the Texas Permian Basin. Assets and operations in the West Texas Permian Basin, Company headquarters in Houston with offices in Big Spring Texas, and Beijing China. Surge has grown to become one of the state’s top 20 oil producers.

Led the establishment of the IT department, joining the company in its earliest stages. Built and managed a client services team of technicians providing 24/7 in-person and remote support to personnel across Texas and Beijing.

Received the 1st annual Bronze Compass Finalist Award for Technical Innovation, selected by the CEO to recognize exceptional achievement.

Recognized as one of 150 aspiring IT leaders worldwide by a Global Fortune 1,000 vendor and invited to attend the prestigious 2018 “IT Leadership SummIT”.

Achieved four separate performance-based promotions within a four-year timeframe.

Successfully mitigated an active ransomware attack, resulting in 100% restoration of potentially affected data and meeting established recovery objectives.