In a world increasingly reliant on digital systems, cybersecurity has evolved from a technical afterthought into a critical business priority. Yet, while the industry continues to grow rapidly, it has long struggled with diversity and representation. Kimberly Simon stands as a powerful exception to that trend proving that passion, resilience, and vision can break through even the most longstanding barriers.

With a career spanning over a decade in cybersecurity compliance, Kimberly has emerged as a recognized leader, speaker, and advocate for women in technology. Today, as Vice President of Partnerships and Alliances at ControlCase, she is not only shaping the future of digital security but also leading efforts to ensure that the door is open for others, especially those traditionally underrepresented in the tech space.

A Personal Mission Meets Professional Purpose

Kimberly’s entry into cybersecurity was driven by more than career ambition. She was drawn to the dynamic nature of the field and the growing need for organizations to embrace compliance as a foundation of trust. Early in her journey, she recognized a glaring gap very few women, and even fewer women of color, were represented in the industry.

“I saw both a challenge and an opportunity,” she explains. “I wanted to contribute to an evolving space while helping build a more inclusive path for others who looked like me.”

What set Kimberly apart was not just her technical ability but her clarity of purpose. Her belief in the role of compliance as a strategic asset helped her stand out early. Combined with a strong interpersonal approach, she quickly became a standout within her organization and the wider cybersecurity community.

Building a Career and a Company from the Ground Up

When Kimberly joined ControlCase, she was the sole team member in the marketing division. Tasked with building a pipeline to support the company’s sales goals, she exceeded expectations. Her results soon opened the door to the sales team, where she flourished, eventually becoming the top global new-business salesperson by her fourth year. Her efforts led to multimillion-dollar revenue growth and partnerships with major Fortune 500 clients.

Her consistent performance and deep industry insight propelled her into leadership. Now as VP of Partnerships and Alliances, Kimberly leads efforts to expand ControlCase’s strategic footprint. Through her work with key stakeholders and technology partners, she plays a vital role in shaping ControlCase’s position as a go-to provider for cybersecurity compliance solutions.

Her leadership extends beyond revenue growth. Kimberly is deeply committed to mentoring aspiring professionals, helping close the skills gap, and making cybersecurity more accessible and inclusive.

About ControlCase

ControlCase is a global leader in the cybersecurity compliance space. The company specializes in providing end-to-end solutions, including audits, certifications, and advisory services across frameworks such as PCI DSS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, and CMMC.

ControlCase’s mission is to help organizations achieve robust security posture through simplified and cost-effective compliance strategies, whether operating in cloud environments or traditional infrastructures.

Kimberly has been instrumental in shaping this mission. Her ability to cultivate meaningful alliances and her drive to deliver value beyond transactions have strengthened the company’s reputation in an increasingly competitive market.

Overcoming Barriers and Redefining Norms

As a Black woman navigating a male-dominated sector, Kimberly’s path has not been without obstacles. Early in her career, the lack of role models and mentors was palpable. She often found herself in environments where her voice had to work twice as hard to be heard.

“Being overlooked was common,” she says. “But instead of stepping back, I chose to step forward, with more preparation, more clarity, and more purpose.”

Her resilience paid off. Today, she is not only recognized as a thought leader in cybersecurity but also as a mentor and role model for those seeking to follow a similar path. Her work continues to challenge outdated perceptions about who belongs in tech, and who leads it.

Navigating Early Challenges with a Strategic Mindset

In ControlCase’s early days, Kimberly and her team encountered a market still unaware of the value of cybersecurity compliance. Smaller businesses, in particular, often didn’t see the immediate need for these solutions.

Instead of selling hard, Kimberly led with education. By offering valuable insights and creating accessible content, she helped organizations understand not just the “what” but the “why” of compliance. Over time, this knowledge-sharing strategy built trust, expanded their network, and established ControlCase as more than just a vendor—they became trusted partners.

Advice for Emerging Leaders

Kimberly’s journey offers a blueprint for aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs alike. Her insights are grounded in lived experience and strategic thinking:

·       Trust Your Vision: “Even if your ideas seem unconventional, believe in them. You may be seeing the future before others do.”

·       Stay Agile: “Cybersecurity evolves quickly. To succeed, be open to learning and prepared to pivot when necessary.”

·       Build Relationships, Not Just Revenue: “Your partnerships and people matter as much as your product. Lead with empathy and collaboration.”

·       Invest in Learning: “Thought leadership starts with giving. Share your knowledge freely, and you’ll gain more than you give.”

·       Persevere Through Adversity: “Diversity in tech isn’t just a checkbox, it’s a daily effort. Don’t let resistance deter your progress. Let it fuel you.”

Recognized for Her Impact

Kimberly’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She was named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 by Business Elite and earned the Rising Star Executive award from WomenTech Network. Yet, beyond the accolades, what fuels her most is the opportunity to guide others and contribute to a more inclusive industry.

The Road Ahead

As Kimberly looks to the future, her mission remains focused: fostering equity, driving innovation, and helping organizations build secure and compliant digital ecosystems. Through her continued leadership at ControlCase and her advocacy for diversity in tech, she is not just shaping the present, she is helping to redefine the future of cybersecurity.