Monte Ratzlaff has been promoted to the position of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the University of California system. Ratzlaff previously served as interim CISO from 2021 to 2022 and again assumed the interim role beginning in 2023. In this new role, Ratzlaff will report directly to Van Williams, Vice President of IT, with a dotted reporting line to Rachael Nava, University of California’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.
Decades of Experience
Ratzlaff brings over two decades of information security experience and has been a cornerstone of UC’s cybersecurity efforts since joining the University of California in 2010. Ratzlaff launched the UC Cyber-risk Coordination Center (C3) in 2015, which provides advanced threat intelligence, real-time monitoring, and coordinated response across the system.
Note: The Cyber-risk Coordination Center is now UC Digital Risk and Security – a change that reflects the expanded focus on digital risk management and security across the UC system.
Under his leadership, UC has significantly strengthened its cyber community, expanded its cyber governance, established a set of shared cybersecurity metrics, improved systemwide cyber readiness, enhanced our cyber insurance posture, expanded the use of shared threat intelligence tools, and built a robust community of practice among campus security leaders.
Advancing Governance and Policies
In recent years, Ratzlaff has played a central role in maturing UC’s Information Security governance and advancing systemwide policies and standards. His focus on transparency, risk-based decision-making, and collaboration has significantly strengthened UC’s ability to protect institutional data while supporting the mission of teaching, research, and public service.
Fostering Collaboration and Community
Ratzlaff has always prioritized collaboration, creating numerous opportunities for the UC security community to grow and connect. He has led the UC Tech Academy’s Digital Risk Leadership program and founded the UC Tech Applied Intelligence Mentorship programs, supporting leaders as they navigate emerging threats. Additionally, he spearheaded efforts to deliver engaging, high-impact events like the UC Cybersecurity Summit, which annually brings together hundreds of professionals to share knowledge and bolster UC’s collective defenses.
The Importance of the CISO Role
In today’s digital age, the role of a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is more critical than ever. CISOs are responsible for safeguarding an organization’s information and data from cyber threats. They oversee the development and implementation of security policies, manage risk, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Their leadership is essential in navigating the complex landscape of cybersecurity, making them indispensable to any institution.
Ratzlaff’s CISO role is a pivotal leadership position within the University, tasked with managing digital risk governance across the UC system. This role necessitates close collaboration with UC leaders in Risk, Audit, Legal, and Compliance, as well as with key stakeholders across all locations.
“I am confident that he [Ratzlaff] will continue to excel in this role and make significate contributions to the University of California,” said Williams.