The automation and digital transformation company, Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), brings Nicole Darden Ford as vice president and Chief Information Security Officer. She will take the role on March 21 and will report to Chris Nardecchia, senior vice president and Chief Information Officer at Rockwell Automation. Nicole succeeds Dawn Cappelli, who retired in February.
Nicole joins Rockwell from Carrier, where she was global vice president and Chief Information Security Officer, overseeing global Information Security, Compliance and Product (IoT) Cybersecurity through the company’s spin-off from parent company United Technologies Corporation. Prior to Carrier, she was global vice president and Chief Information Security Officer for Baxter International, where she had global responsibility for Information Security, Information Governance and IT Quality Compliance. Nicole began her career in the U.S. military and federal government, including for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, handling security, network engineering, and telecommunications.
“I am excited about the energy, perspective and expertise Nicole brings to this critical area and look forward to her contributions in executing our growth, digital transformation, and cybersecurity strategies,” said Chris. “With over 20 years in IT leadership, Nicole’s extensive knowledge and application experience in forensics, digital transformation, and homeland security practices is a valuable addition to our team.”
Nicole is also passionate about building and growing teams, fostering culture, and focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion. She currently serves on the boards of IT-ISAC, South Florida Tech Hub and the Lola Mercedes Parker Foundation. She will remain located in Jupiter, FL.
