The Tortora Brayda Institute and the Association of US Cyber Forces presents a new series to help bring awareness to the cybersecurity industry.
Cybersecurity as a job description is so encompassing. There are so many different jobs that fall under the category of cybersecurity, and there is not just one path to get there. Join TBI and AUSCF as we dive into different jobs in cybersecurity.
Each month we will have new speakers coming in to discuss:
--What is their job title?
--What do they actually do in their job?
--How did they got there (education, previous jobs, etc.)?
--Advice for those entering the field or looking to make a change within the field.
This month we are excited to bring the Founders of The Cactus Group, LLC to share their journey with you!
Iulia Griffin is a dynamic executive and project management professional with extensive experience in leadership, risk management, and operational excellence. As CEO of The Cactus Group LLC, a woman-owned small business specializing in cybersecurity, RMF, and program support, Iulia has built a reputation for driving innovation, forging strategic partnerships, and mentoring high-performing teams. Her leadership journey spans impactful roles at UBS, Morgan Stanley, and T. Rowe Price, where she excelled in managing complex projects, regulatory compliance, and cross-functional collaboration.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Iulia is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Towson University and executive leadership training from Yale and Rutgers. An active mentor and lifelong learner, she also finds joy in the culinary arts.
Justin Griffin is a seasoned Information Technology and Operational Technology Cybersecurity Subject Matter Expert (SME) with over 20 years of experience spanning commercial and Department of Defense (DoD) sectors. He is highly proficient in implementing multiple cybersecurity frameworks, including the Risk Management Framework (RMF), NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), and Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). As a recognized NIST-RMF, CSF, and CyberAB CMMC SME, Justin has provided expert guidance to organizations navigating the complexities of IT governance, compliance, and cybersecurity risk management.
As the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of The Cactus Group LLC, Justin leads technology strategy and execution, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. He specializes in Risk Management Framework (RMF) implementation, crafting cybersecurity policies, and managing complex accreditation processes, particularly for U.S. Army environments. His ability to translate technical risks into actionable business strategies has made him a trusted advisor in both government and commercial settings.
For the past four years, Justin has focused intensely on industrial cybersecurity, contributing to the protection and compliance of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) such as SCADA and microgrid systems. Throughout his career, Justin has supported diverse platforms, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS, while delivering innovative solutions that empower organizations to exceed security and compliance benchmarks. Whether leading rigorous assessments, designing governance frameworks, or educating teams on cutting-edge practices, Justin remains steadfast in his mission to advance the field of cybersecurity and safeguard critical infrastructure.
