David Demsey

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) / Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Los Angeles Metropolitan Area

About

As Vice President of IT & Chief Information Security Officer, I lead the strategy and execution of enterprise technology and cybersecurity initiatives while building a scalable shared services operating model across affiliate companies. My focus is on creating integrated, high-performing IT and security capabilities that drive efficiency, reduce risk, and support business growth across a multi-entity environment. With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in designing and implementing best-in-class Information Technology and Security strategies for Fortune 500 companies and complex organizations. I have a proven track record of aligning technology and security initiatives with business objectives by embedding agile practices, modern tooling, and cross-functional collaboration. I am passionate about proactively identifying and mitigating cybersecurity risks through data-driven decision-making, leveraging strategic metrics and executive dashboards to create transparency and accountability. My leadership approach centers on building cultures rooted in collaboration, continuous improvement, and operational excellence—enabling organizations to scale securely in an ever-evolving threat landscape. Skills & Expertise: Strategic & Financial Management | Information Security Vision & Strategy | Strategic Enterprise Risk Management | Information Security Management | Project Management | Waterfall, Scrum, LEAN, Agile | Strategic Partnerships | IT Portfolio Management | Cyber Security Risk Assessments | Vulnerability Management Programs | Penetration Testing Initiatives | Key Security Indicator (KSI) Dashboards | Information Security Awareness | Training Programs

Experience

  • Vice President, Information Technology and Chief Information Security Officer at Otsuka America, Inc.
    Jan 2025 - Present · 1 yr 6 mos

    Parent company of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Companies (U.S.) •Lead enterprise IT and cybersecurity strategy across multiple affiliate companies through a shared services model •Build and scale centralized IT, security, and governance capabilities to drive efficiency, standardization, and cost optimization •Establish enterprise-wide security frameworks, risk management programs, and compliance strategies •Partner with executive leadership to align technology investments with strategic business objectives •Drive modernization initiatives across infrastructure, applications, and security operations

  • Global Information Security Officer at Otsuka Pharmaceutical Companies (U.S.)
    Jan 2023 - Jan 2025 · 2 yrs 1 mo

    Parent company of Avanir Pharmaceuticals •Led enterprise-wide information security strategy and execution, minimizing cybersecurity risk across a global footprint of ~200 companies in ~50 countries.

  • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Avanir Pharmaceuticals
    2019 - Jan 2023 · 4 yrs 1 mo

    • Designed a robust and leading security infrastructure for a Global InfoSec Governance structure and rationalized security tools, including policies and training based on industry best practices. • Minimized downtime and reduced costs by strategically planning and onboarding a new MSP to support our InfoSec, IT Infrastructure, Cloud, and Service Desk. • Led the strategy and roadmap for migrating the entire IT infrastructure to the cloud (AWS). • Built and deployed a Global Information Security Policy Set across all Otsuka affiliate companies spanning multiple industries, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, medical devices, water companies, etc. • Supported several strategic initiatives and speaking engagements, including partnering with United Way to teach high school students about Information Security and speaking at an Evanta Southern California CISO Summit on “Taking a Risk-Based Approach to Compliance.” • Drove a culture of innovation and high performance by hosting and guiding InfoSec Lunch and Learns.

  • Cybersecurity Consultant (vCISO) at CISOSHARE
    2018 - 2019 · 1 yr

    • Designed, led, and managed numerous cybersecurity engagements for global F500 companies. • Drove scalability for security initiatives while advising C-Suite on Cybersecurity and Business Continuity technologies and programs. • Supported technology leads to define key metrics and KPIs, develop reporting processes, and create communication methods across technology.

  • Executive Director Global PMO, Solutions, & Integrations at Ingram Micro
    2017 - 2018 · 1 yr

    • Strategized and planned all Global IT Projects and Programs and company acquisitions while managing staff in Mumbai, Manilla, Irvine, and Buffalo. • Built and rolled out a new company Project Management Methodology, resulting in cutting costs, optimizing efficiency, and meeting deliverable timelines. • Drove increased quality in project management execution while leading the team responsible for developing rapid IT solutions and processes. • Created a problem-solving team with cross-functional members to support communication and transparency.