Claudette McGowan

Claudette McGowan is a global information technology leader with more than 20 years of success leading digital transformations and implementing cybersecurity platforms and solutions. She has worked in the technology industry for several organizations, such as Deloitte, Metropolitan Police Services, North York General Hospital, Bank of Montreal, and TD Bank. At BMO, Claudette served as the Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Technology Employee Experience, and at TD Bank she was the Global Executive Officer for Protect Fusion & Cyber Experience. 

Claudette is currently the Chief Executive Officer for Protexxa, an innovative cybersecurity software and services company. She is the creator of Protexxa Defender, an AI-powered cybersecurity platform that helps companies and individuals find and fix cyber vulnerabilities. 

Claudette is Vice-Chair of MaRS Discovery District and Chair of CILAR, a group of senior business leaders committed to creating platforms that break down systemic barriers within the innovation economy. She also co-led the launch of Phoenix Fire & The Firehood, a multi-million-dollar women-focused angel fund and network for women in technology. Her commitment to community is evidenced by her multiple board seats for leading organizations. 

Claudette holds a BA from Lakehead University, an MBA from Athabasca University, and three Hon. Doctor of Laws degrees. She also received an Honorary Doctor of Science from Trent University. Claudette is currently in the Computer Science PhD program at Toronto Metropolitan University. 

Over the past decade, Claudette has received recognition as one of the Top 100 Global Leaders in FinTech by FinTech Magazine, in addition to numerous other accolades. In December 2024, UBS selected Claudette as the winner of their Female Founder Award, which recognizes the next generation of women-led companies around the world, in the fields of financial and enterprise technology. In June 2025, Claudette was appointed to the Order of Canada for her global leadership in cybersecurity, advocacy for women, and the promotion of digital human rights.