Gary W Sprague

Gary W Sprague has over 18 years of experience in the cybersecurity and compliance field. Gary W currently works as a Senior Cyber Security Compliance Consultant - Assessor at Specialized Security Services, Inc., where they are responsible for developing and implementing enterprise security architecture and ensuring compliance with corporate policies and regulatory requirements.

Prior to their current role, Gary worked at Rent-A-Center as the Director of Cyber Security / Compliance & Privacy. In this position, they created strategic direction to mitigate risk and developed cybersecurity policies and risk mitigation processes. Gary W also managed a team of cybersecurity professionals.

Before Rent-A-Center, Gary held the position of Distinguished Member of the Technical Staff (DMTS) at Verizon. Gary W played a key role in orchestrating corporate cybersecurity governance, risk, and compliance programs. Gary W chaired the Verizon Information Security Council and successfully reduced data loss and risk by 10%.

Gary's experience also includes working as a Senior Information Security Engineer at Countrywide Financial Corporation, where they secured information assets and developed a security awareness and privacy program resulting in a 62% increase in acceptance. Gary W started their career at Bank of America as a Vice President/Specialist, System Data Security. In this role, they managed development projects, oversaw training and team growth, and executed risk assessments.

Throughout their career, Gary has demonstrated expertise in cybersecurity, compliance, risk management, and team leadership.

Gary W Sprague has a strong educational background in the field of information technology and management. Gary W holds a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Information Assurance from Capitol Technology University. Additionally, they have a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree in Business Administration, Management, and Operations, also from Capitol Technology University.

Before pursuing their master's degrees, Gary W Sprague obtained a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Computer Science from SUNY Empire State College.

In addition to their formal education, Gary W Sprague has obtained several certifications to further enhance their professional skills. These include the CGEIT certification from ISACA, the CISA certification also from ISACA, the CISM certification again from ISACA, the CISSP certification from (ISC)², and the PMP certification from the Project Management Institute.