Trust is the Job: A Conversation with Resilience’s Chris Wheeler
Chris Wheeler, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Resilience, has spent his career navigating the complexities of cybersecurity. With a background in threat research and analysis, he’s had a front-row seat to some of the most pressing security challenges facing businesses today. But what sets Wheeler apart from his peers is his unique blend of military experience and commercial acumen, which has given him a distinct perspective on the role of the CISO.
Wheeler’s journey into cybersecurity began in the US Navy, where he spent six years serving as both a sailor and a cyber operations specialist. It was during this time that he developed a deep understanding of what it means to be a leader, particularly in high-pressure situations. As he explains, “In the military, you’re either leading or getting out – there’s no middle ground.” This “up or out” mentality instilled in him the importance of leadership and mission focus, which has served him well in his commercial career.
After leaving the Navy, Wheeler transitioned into the private sector, where he quickly realized that business isn’t quite as straightforward as military operations. Technology is constantly evolving, networks are becoming increasingly complex, and security leaders must now possess a range of skills, including business analysis and communication. “You can’t be an expert in everything,” Wheeler notes. “A good leader knows when to teach others and when to guide them.”
So what sets Wheeler apart from other CISOs? In his view, it’s the ability to engender trust – both within the security team and with business leaders. Trust is a two-way street, he explains: CISOs must establish trust with their peers and the business, but also have faith in their own team members to do their jobs effectively. This requires a deep understanding of what makes people tick, as well as a willingness to empower others.
As AI technology continues to democratize access to automation tools, Wheeler believes that security teams no longer need to be made up of highly specialized engineers. Instead, they should look for individuals who are future-minded and able to incorporate AI into their workflows. This shift in thinking allows CISOs like Wheeler to focus on strategic decision-making rather than getting bogged down in technical details.
So what can we learn from Wheeler’s experience? For one, the role of the CISO is evolving – it’s no longer just about technical expertise. It’s about building trust, fostering collaboration between security and business teams, and empowering others to do their jobs effectively. As Wheeler so aptly puts it, “Trust is the job.” By prioritizing this core value, businesses can create a more effective and resilient security posture that truly reflects the needs of the organization.
As we move forward in an ever-changing cybersecurity landscape, it’s clear that leaders like Chris Wheeler will be at the forefront of shaping the future of security. His commitment to trust, collaboration, and innovation is a beacon of hope for businesses seeking to stay ahead of the curve.
Source: SecurityWeek — 2026-08-27