CCBJ recently unveiled our 2024 list of 50 Women to Watch. Please join us in celebrating these game-changers in our industry.
Sharon Finney, Director, Cybersecurity Operations, Children’s National Hospital
Sharon R. Finney is a seasoned Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with over two decades of experience, dedicated to transforming enterprises for cyber resilience. Her passion for integrating security solutions, fostering innovation, and enhancing business outcomes has consistently driven her career forward. She is committed to staying at the cutting edge of security initiatives, leading change, and propelling the growth of organizations. Sharon has a proven track record of implementing effective policies, solutions, and frameworks to ensure long-term sustainability and drive organizational success. Her expertise extends to talent management, fostering professional growth, and driving continuous learning. As a change management leader, Sharon excels in maximizing bottom-line results in complex situations, aligning technology with business objectives, and streamlining security operations.
Sharon earned a Master of Juris Prudence in Health Law from Loyola University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Security from DeVry University.
CCBJ asked each of our candidates to pass it forward with a few words of wisdom for the next generation.
What advice would you offer your younger self?
Embrace continuous learning and stay curious. Don't be afraid to step into roles that challenge you beyond your comfort zone, because that's where real growth happens. Build strong relationships and surround yourself with diverse talent to broaden your perspective and drive innovation. Most importantly, always align your efforts with a bigger purpose, focusing on outcomes that not only secure but also elevate the entire organization. Remember, true leadership isn’t just about managing risks, but about creating opportunities for others to thrive.
Please describe your proudest individual or team achievement.
My proudest achievement is embedded in the teams I have helped nurture and build throughout my career. It is in their growth and achievements that I have found my proudest moments.
Kindly share the most influential piece of advice (professional or personal) you have received?
"Earn respect through decisive leadership and clear expectations, while holding others accountable to shared standards. How individuals choose to engage determines the nature of collaboration, but commitment to achieving results must remain steadfast." This is a current adaptation of something that my father impressed upon me early in my life.
Where do you see the legal profession in 10+ years?
In the 10 years several significant changes can be anticipated in the legal profession driven by current and emerging technological innovations. Some key areas to consider:
- The use of AI and automation tools like predictive analytics, natural language processing, and machine learning will continue to reshape the legal landscape including the evolution of legal research.
- Blockchain and smart contracts will impact transactional contract law by increasing transparency, reduced disputes, and streamline processes like escrow agreements.
- Law firms and legal departments will be pushed to adopt legal tech solutions.
- Cybersecurity and data privacy law will continue to adapt to technology innovations. We will continue to see a growing emphasis on cybersecurity and data privacy regulations.
- Transformation of traditional legal roles and careers will be impacted by automation and AI. There will be a greater demand for technologists, data scientists, and legal engineers who can integrate law with technology.
What are your favorite books, professional sports, entertainment and/or extracurricular activities?
My Favorite Books:
- Security Chaos Engineering: Sustaining Resilience in Software and Systems, by Kelly Shortridge with Aaron Rinehart
- Why Motivating People Doesn’t Work...and What Does, by Susan Fowler
- The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, by John C. Maxwell
And, I love being out in nature hiking and enjoying the outdoors. I have a 3rd degree black belt and enjoy ballroom dancing!
Published February 19, 2025.
