Mercedes Pesantez

Mercedes Pesantez is an accomplished professional with a robust background in cybersecurity, information security, and enterprise risk management. Currently serving as the Director of Cybersecurity Strategy at Discover Financial Services, Mercedes has previously held key positions including Senior Manager of Information Security Business Operations and Senior Manager in Consumer Banking. Additionally, experience at Associated Bank as Senior Manager of Enterprise Risk Management and at BMO as Assistant Vice President of Operational Risk Management showcases a strong foundation in risk management. Academic contributions as an Adjunct Professor at Northwestern College complement a solid educational background, which includes an MBA in International Finance from North Park University and a BBA in Accounting and Finance from the University of Illinois Chicago.