Joana Cruz

Joana Cruz is an accomplished cybersecurity professional with over a decade of experience at Target, currently serving as the Director of Engineering in Cybersecurity. In this role, Joana leads efforts to protect Target from various threats and enhance security controls. Significant achievements include implementing advanced Web Application Firewall technology and improving secure email gateway protection using AI/ML solutions. Previously, Joana held positions such as Senior Engineering Manager, focusing on digital security innovations, and Engineering Consultant, where modern engineering teams were established and supply chain modernization solutions were architected. Earlier experience includes tenures as Global Lead Engineer at Target and Enterprise Lead Engineer at YA | Engage, managing large-scale applications in multiple domains. Joana's educational background encompasses programs at prestigious institutions, including the University of Oxford and Yale School of Management, along with a bachelor's degree in Computer and Information Science from Far Eastern University.