For six years, Security Magazine has been recognizing enterprise information security executives and professionals who are making a real difference within the industry. In fact, this month’s Special Report highlights the 2026 Top Cybersecurity Leader honorees. Profiles on this year’s honorees can be found here.

In addition to Top Cybersecurity Leaders, Security Magazine has several other programs to honor those exceptional leaders and security programs throughout the industry. These include the Women in Security, Most Influential People in Security and our Profiles in Excellence features.

We take great pride in honoring these individuals each year, however it wouldn’t be possible without our readers taking the time to nominate their colleagues, peers, mentors and friends within the industry that have truly made their mark.

Nominations are currently open for the 2027 Most Influential People in Security, however I encourage all our readers to check out the Call for Entries page on the website for other recognition opportunities as forms go live throughout the year.

With our annual Most Influential People in Security program, Security aims to spotlight enterprise security executives and professionals that are at the forefront of the industry, leading the way in security and acting as mentors and true examples of leaders.

Nominations for all programs are considered based on leadership qualities and the overall positive impact that their security projects, programs or departments have on their shareholders, organizations, colleagues and the general public. We will consider executives, professionals, professors and other thought leaders in both physical and cybersecurity.

Another cornerstone of our editorial coverage is the annual Security Benchmark Report, published each November. This report provides valuable insights into how security programs compare across the industry, recognizing that priorities and metrics vary widely from one organization to another.

In the 2025 report, respondents shared details about security roles and responsibilities, training initiatives, budget fluctuations, key metrics, and much more. In order to continue building a comprehensive view of the industry, we are seeking even broader participation from our readers.

The input of security leaders’ is critical. Participate in the 2026 Security Benchmark Survey, now open, to ensure your program’s experience is reflected. Perhaps the biggest benefit of contributing to the Security Benchmark Survey is access to the raw, anonymized dataset. Respondents receive a unique opportunity to compare their program against others — across the entire industry or within their specific sector — on any metric they choose.

Whether nominating a peer for recognition or contributing data to the annual Security Benchmark Survey, your involvement helps shape the future of the industry. I encourage all security professionals to take part and share their perspectives!