LPL cements cybersecurity commitment with C-suite hire

LPL is expanding its commitment to technology leadership as it gives an experienced cybersecurity leader a seat on its C-suite.

On Monday, LPL Financial announced the appointment of Renana Friedlich as executive vice president and chief information security officer.

With more than 20 years of experience in cybersecurity across various industries, Friedlich will oversee the firm’s cybersecurity strategy, including protecting its IT infrastructure, networks, and data.

Friedlich will report to Greg Gates, managing director and chief technology and information officer, who highlighted the importance of her role in enhancing the firm’s defenses against cyber threats. 

“Renana joins us with a proven track record of pioneering security solutions,” Gates said in a statement Monday. “Her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our security posture and propelling LPL and financial advisors toward a secure and resilient future.”

In her previous role as deputy chief information security officer at PayPal, Friedlich led a team of 120 security professionals focused on cyber threat management. Earlier in her career, she worked at EY, advising Fortune 500 companies on breach preparedness, and served seven years in the military.

Friedlich expressed enthusiasm about joining LPL during a critical time for cybersecurity in financial services. 

“LPL understands that robust cybersecurity is non-negotiable. I’m thrilled to join a firm that prioritizes security and strives to lead the way in safeguarding advisors, financial institutions and investors,” she said.

A recognized thought leader in the field, Friedlich serves on advisory boards for universities and technology startups and is a frequent keynote speaker at cybersecurity conferences. She will be based in LPL’s San Diego headquarters.

Friedrich's hiring comes shortly after the firm unveiled its AI Advisor Solutions program, under which the broker-dealer giant is giving thousands of advisors across its platform access to a curated selection of leading vendors in the AI space.

Friedlich is also the first significant executive addition to LPL under the leadership of Rich Steinmeier, who officially took on the role of CEO in October. Prior to his confirmation, Steinmeier briefly served as interim chief executive for several weeks following the abrupt October 1st termination of former LPL CEO Dan Arnold, who the company said was let go for making statements to employees that violated its code of conduct.