The new award has been launched by TIME in partnership with Commvault to recognise Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) who are redefining cyber resilience and helping organisations navigate an increasingly complex and fast-evolving threat landscape.
The award celebrates security leaders who are not only defending against cyber threats, but also driving trust, operational resilience and business continuity across their organisations.
The announcement of the winner will coincide with TIME’s inaugural Executives of the Year: Tech & Data list, launching in September 2026.
Sam has been recognised for his leadership in strengthening cyber resilience and information governance across Cygnet, helping ensure the organisation remains secure and resilient in an era of rapidly evolving digital threats and increasing use of AI technologies.
Speaking about the recognition, Sam said: “To be shortlisted for the first ever TIME CISO of the Year Award is genuinely a huge honour and still feels slightly surreal.
“Cyber security is one of those professions that almost chooses you. Much of the role involves preparing for worst-case scenarios, managing risk, responding to incidents and trying to stay ahead of an evolving threat landscape, especially with AI accelerating everything.
“This recognition reflects the collective effort of a fantastic team. Strong cyber resilience is always built collaboratively and I’m incredibly fortunate to work alongside brilliant colleagues across Cygnet and beyond every day.
“I’m also very proud to be shortlisted alongside some hugely respected people from across the industry.”
The role of the CISO has become increasingly important as organisations face growing cyber threats, tighter regulatory pressures and the challenges and opportunities presented by cloud and AI technologies.
TIME and Commvault said the award aims to spotlight leaders who are transforming cybersecurity into a driver of resilience, trust and long-term organisational strength.
Everyone at Cygnet congratulates Sam on this fantastic achievement and wishes him the very best for the awards later this year.