Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing how organizations build software, manage risk, and approach cybersecurity. In this episode of the CyberTech Intelligence Podcast, Mary Sparks, Chief Information Security Officer at Sugar AI, discusses why security can no longer be the final step in the development lifecycle and must instead be embedded alongside engineering, product, and business teams from the beginning.
Mary explores how AI is accelerating both innovation and cyber risk, while expanding the attack surface through AI agents, software dependencies, and increasingly complex supply chains. She also explains why continuous security education, evolving governance frameworks, and measurable vendor value are becoming critical as CISOs evaluate new technologies and protect their organizations in a rapidly changing environment.
The conversation also highlights the evolving role of the CISO as a business enabler rather than a blocker. From strengthening customer trust and supporting enterprise deals to securing the software supply chain and preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, Mary emphasizes one essential leadership quality for the AI era: curiosity—learning, experimenting, adapting, and building security into innovation.
