Cybersecurity leader and businessman Amit Yoran passes away at the age of 54.
Cybersecurity leader and businessman Amit Yoran passes away at the age of 54.
"Bridgett Paradise, Tenable's chief people and culture officer, acknowledged in a staff update on Saturday that Amit was not just an innovative leader, but also a powerful influence on our sector, our organization, our ethos, and our locality," stated.
Amit took a medical leave starting December 5, the company announced. He held the CEO position since 2016 and spearheaded the company's IPO in 2018.
Before joining Tenable, which is based in Maryland, Amit served as RSA Security's president, a company specializing in computer and network security. He also founded NetWitness, a platform for threat detection and response. In 1998, Amit co-founded Riptech Inc., a company in Virginia that utilized sensor networks to safeguard government and corporate computers from cyberattacks.
Amit was later appointed the director of the newly established Homeland Security Department’s National Cyber Security Division in 2003. He left the position after a year.
Amit was frequently featured on cable news, where he would share insights on cybersecurity and data collection. In March 2023, Amit was interviewed on CNN regarding the US government's potential ban on TikTok due to data collection worries.
"Amit's unwavering enthusiasm for cybersecurity, his forward-thinking strategy, and his capacity to motivate others have molded Tenable's culture and vision. His influence will persistently guide us as we venture forth," expressed Art Coviello, set to become the chairman and Tenable's independent lead director.
During Amit's absence, Tenable Holdings' board designated CFO Steve Vintz and COO Mark Thurmond as interim co-CEOs. The company stated that Vintz and Thurmond will carry on leading the company while Tenable searches for a full-time CEO.
Amit's significant contributions to Tenable's business and cybersecurity sector were evident in his role as CEO, leading the company's IPO in 2018. Despite his medical leave, his impact on the company's culture, vision, and business strategy will continue to influence the organization.