Hi, I'm Tony Watson - Security & AI Research / Private Equity & Investment at Self-employed
I'm driven by the intersection of cutting-edge security, AI, and strategic investment. I thrive in environments where innovation meets rigorous analysis, shaping the future of technology and finance through research and astute decision-making.
At a glance
Curated signals on strengths, focus areas, and how they can help.
Served as CISO for Groq, leading security for an AI hardware innovator.
Currently focusing on security and AI research, alongside private equity.
Can help others by providing strategic security guidance and investment insights.
🚀 Career trajectory
Foundation in Network & IT Security
Began career building foundational IT infrastructure and network security expertise, earning certifications like CCNA and CCNP.
✦ Networking
✦ IT Strategy
✦ Troubleshooting
Managerial & Strategic Security Leadership
Progressed to IT Security Manager at Google, overseeing complex security landscapes and driving strategic initiatives.
✦ Information Security Management
✦ Risk Assessment
✦ Cross-functional Team Leadership
Executive Security & Emerging Tech Focus
Served as CISO at Groq, leading information security for an AI hardware innovator, while concurrently engaging in private equity and AI research.
✦ CISO
✦ Artificial Intelligence (AI)
✦ Private Equity
Independent Researcher & Investor
Currently focused on independent security and AI research, coupled with private equity and investment activities.
✦ Security Research
✦ Angel Investing
✦ Investment Management
💪🏻 Superpowers
Strategic Security Architect
Designing and implementing advanced security frameworks.
✦ Expertise in CISSP, CISM, CISA, CCSP, CCNA, CCNP, CCSE, MCSE+Security.
✦ Developed and managed IT security for Google's global operations.
✦ Led security posture as CISO for innovative AI hardware company Groq.
Investment & AI Innovator
Bridging technology insights with financial acumen.
✦ Engaged in private equity and investment management.
✦ Focusing on security and AI research for future growth.
✦ Identifying opportunities in emerging tech sectors.
Community Contributor & Advocate
Shaping industry standards and knowledge sharing.
✦ Active member of OSVDB, BITAG, ISC2, ISSA, and Evil Genius League.
✦ Contributor to the Broadband Internet Technical Advisory Group.
✦ Passionate about public speaking and sharing expertise.
I'm excited about
✦ Discovering groundbreaking AI advancements and investment opportunities.
✦ Connecting with innovators and thought leaders in cybersecurity and finance.
✦ Exploring collaborations for future research and investment ventures.
I can help with
✦ Providing strategic guidance on enterprise-wide security architecture.
✦ Sharing insights on AI's impact on security and investment landscapes.
✦ Mentoring emerging professionals in cybersecurity and finance.
I would love your help on
✦ Identifying promising early-stage AI and cybersecurity startups for investment.
✦ Finding collaborators for advanced security research projects.
✦ Connecting with experts in deep technology and venture capital.