Speaker: Mr. Brandon McInnis, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi (BCBSMS)

Biography:

Brandon McInnis is the Cybersecurity Manager for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of
Mississippi where he serves his career mission to make a positive impact on the
Cybersecurity industry by contributing to a safer internet for all by protecting the
personal information for members of Mississippi’s largest health insurance organization.

His journey in technology spans nearly 10 years and has afforded him the opportunity to
work with start-ups, health clinics, pharmacies, manufacturing, and banks, non-profits,
and multi-million-dollar corporations.

His professional career started at the age of 19 when he was promoted to assistant
store manager of the grocery store, he worked throughout high school. This promotion
gave Brandon the privilege to lead at a young age and early exposure to the
responsibilities of management.

Early in Brandon’s tech career, he had the opportunity to work for two organizations that
helped prepare him for a future in management. These two organizations exposed
Brandon to multiple industry regulations such as HIPPA, PCI and FDIC. During this
time, Brandon was asked to work with limited supervision; at his first technology job, he
was responsible for making his own schedule, engaging with stakeholders, and
planning several key projects. Brandon’s early career experience proved to be valuable
training grounds that would prepare him for future leadership roles.

Since joining Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Mississippi in 2020, Brandon has been
privileged to work alongside a highly skilled group of technology professionals whom he
learns from each day. Brandon’s tenure at Blue Cross has included overseeing
challenging initiatives such as revamping the company’s vulnerability management
program, acquiring and deploying critical cybersecurity technologies, designing
networks, and conducting comprehensive security assessments. Each of these projects
help protect the sensitive information and vital services provided by BCBSMS while
supporting the company’s mission of “improving the health and well-being of
Mississippians.”

He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in information technology from Purdue
University Global as well as multiple industry certifications such as GIAC’s GPEN,
GSOM, and ISC2’s CISSP.
In his personal time, he enjoys helping his loved ones with various projects and
business ventures, completing household projects, exercising, cooking, reading, and
playing fetch with his dog Zen.