James W. Sample

Early Life and Education

James “Jamey” Sample was born in Cleveland TN and began a distinguished career in the U.S. Navy, where he developed expertise in cryptologic operations, information security, and leadership. During his naval service, Jamey gained foundational experience in safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of critical communication systems.

Jamey holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western Governors University, an Associate of Science in Business Management from Hawaii Pacific University, and completed the Harvard Leadership Program. Additionally, he earned specialized certifications, including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and InfoSec Assessment Methodology (IAM) from the National Security Agency (NSA).

Career

U.S. Navy (1993–1998)

Jamey began his career in the U.S. Navy as a Cryptologic Technician, responsible for safeguarding classified information, ensuring compliance with security protocols, and supporting military intelligence operations. During this time, he received commendations, including two Joint Service Commendation Medal, one Navy Achievement Medal, and Sailor of the Year awards.

Industry Practitioner (1998–2015)

Following his naval service, Jamey transitioned to civilian roles focused on information security and network management. He held positions including:

·       Network Engineer, The Oakhill Group LTD, where he monitored, analyzed, and maintained secure communications for the Joint Chiefs of Staff’s Global Command and Control System.

·       Manager of Systems & Networks, Lason, where he managed a multi-million IT budget, overseeing LAN/WAN systems for six national branches and 50 business partners. Developed disaster recovery plans and implemented security policies to ensure 99% network reliability.

·       Principal Systems Engineer, SAIC, where he led a multi-million dollar project to secure the California Independent System Operator’s (CAISO) infrastructure, implementing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and vulnerability management programs.

·       Manager, Information Security, California ISO, where directed the security of CAISO’s critical grid-related assets, including SCADA systems, Energy Management Systems, and market-related platforms. Achieved an 80% reduction in vulnerabilities through proactive security initiatives.

·       Director, Enterprise Information Security and Policy, Tennessee Valley Authority, where he oversaw TVA’s enterprise information security program, ensuring compliance with FISMA, NERC, and NRC standards.

·       Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Pacific Gas and Electric Company, where he led cybersecurity governance and oversight for PG&E, managing an annual budget of $90 million and a team of 120+ specialists. He transformed the organization’s security maturity, outpacing industry peers in both IT and OT.

Consulting (2015-2020)

At Ernst & Young (EY), Jamey served as Partner and Americas Energy and OT Cybersecurity Leader. In this role, he focused on helping organizations balance risk and growth through digital transformation. He led a $100 million+ business pipeline and a team delivering integrated security solutions across IT and Industrial Control Systems (ICS). During his tenure, the practice experienced a 54% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over three years.

Key contributions included embedding cybersecurity into product and service design, digitizing risk intelligence for dynamic decision-making, and fostering a risk-aware culture within client organizations.

Industry Practitioner (2020-2024)

As Vice President and Chief Security Officer at Xcel Energy, Jamey led the Enterprise Security and Emergency Management Department, encompassing cyber and physical security, supply chain risk management, and emergency and crisis management. He was responsible for ensuring compliance with NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP), DHS Pipeline Safety, and NRC standards.

Key achievements include:

·       Led Xcel Energy’s COVID-19 response and return-to-work strategies.

·       Managed a team of 400+ professionals and an annual budget of $150 million.

·       Transformed the organization’s maturity to surpass industry benchmarks in IT and OT.

Consulting (2024-Present)

At Deloitte, Jamey is a Managing Director where he focuses on serving the Energy, Resources & Industrials sector. He is an accomplished senior executive with over 25 years where his extensive professional background is defined by significant program transformations, strategic leadership, shaping national policies and programs, and board-level advisory, drawn from his experiences in Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and Big 4 consulting.

Board Memberships and Leadership Roles

Jamey has served on several boards and executive committees, contributing expertise in security, resilience, and critical infrastructure protection:

·       Board Member, Global Resilience Federation (2020–2024)

·       Supports cross-sector intelligence exchange and resilience-building for critical infrastructure sectors.

·       Executive Committee Member, Energy Analysis & Resilience Center (2020–2023)

·       Collaborates with public and private sector leaders to mitigate systemic risks to national critical functions.

Awards and Recognition

Jamey has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:

·       Finalist, CSO of the Year (SC Magazine, 2014)

·       Joint Service Commendation Medal (2), Department of Defense

·       Navy Achievement Medal, Department of Defense

·       Sailor of the Year (USCINCPAC J2, 1997)

Certifications

·       Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

·       InfoSec Assessment Methodology (IAM) – NSA

Legacy

Throughout his career, Jamey has been a driving force in safeguarding critical infrastructure and advancing organizational resilience. By blending technical expertise with strategic vision, he continues to play a pivotal role in addressing the most pressing security challenges facing industries today.