LeAnne Pelzer is a seasoned cybersecurity expert with extensive experience in cyber risk management and resilience consulting. She currently serves as the Senior Director of Cyber Risk Management Consulting at Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42, a role she has held since May 2024. Prior to this, she was a Consulting Director for two years and eight months, leading efforts to assist Global 2000 and Fortune 500 clients in understanding their risk landscape and strengthening their cybersecurity posture.

Pelzer has been instrumental in developing Palo Alto Networks’ Cyber Risk Assessment and Cybersecurity Program Development service offerings, serving as the Global Service Lead in these areas. Her expertise spans Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), vCISO Advisory Services, and Expert Witness/Litigation Support.

Before joining Palo Alto Networks, she worked as a Principal Consultant at Crypsis, which was acquired by Palo Alto Networks in August 2020. Earlier in her career, she spent four years and five months at Deloitte, where she held roles as a Senior Consultant and Consultant, specializing in cybersecurity risk services.

Pelzer’s career began with roles in geographic information systems and IT support, including positions at James Madison University and the City of Harrisonburg, VA. She has since emerged as a thought leader in cybersecurity, speaking at renowned conferences like BlackHat, authoring articles for Dark Reading, and even appearing in a Unit 42 advertisement in Times Square.

Her journey exemplifies tenacity, strategic thinking, and a commitment to cybersecurity excellence. She continues to shape the industry through mentorship, advisory services, and thought leadership.