Forcepoint Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Forcepoint has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, product, technology, human resources, and go-to-market strategy.

Driven by a commitment to human-centric cybersecurity, Forcepoint empowers organizations to secure their digital transformation by protecting data and users wherever they work.

Leadership Roles at Forcepoint

  • Chief Financial Officer - Matthew Derdeyn
  • Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Michael Newman
  • President, Go to Market - Rick Hanson
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Emilie McLaughlin
  • Chief Product Marketing Officer & Chief People Officer & Chief Marketing Officer - Naveen Palavalli
  • Chief Technology Officer & Head of Global Engineering - Bakshi Kohli
  • Matthew Derdeyn - Chief Financial Officer

    Matthew Derdeyn, the Chief Financial Officer at Forcepoint, directs the company's financial strategy and operations. This leadership role involves managing all aspects of financial planning, accounting, and reporting to ensure fiscal health and support strategic growth initiatives. Derdeyn oversees the allocation of capital, drives efficiency across departments, and provides critical financial insights to guide executive decision-making. By optimizing resource utilization and managing financial risks, Matthew Derdeyn ensures Forcepoint maintains a strong financial foundation to execute its global cybersecurity mission. The Chief Financial Officer's purview extends to investor relations and maintaining compliance with all financial regulations, solidifying the company's credibility and market position.
    Matthew Derdeyn

    Michael Newman - Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Newman, the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at Forcepoint, spearheads the financial architecture and fiscal management of the organization. This executive position involves a dual focus on strategic financial planning and the operational execution of financial controls. Newman guides the company's long-term financial vision, ensuring alignment with Forcepoint's cybersecurity objectives and market expansion goals. Overseeing treasury functions, capital management, and financial reporting, Michael Newman provides essential oversight to maintain fiscal integrity and drive profitability. The Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include fostering strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, reinforcing Forcepoint's stability and capacity for innovation in the global cybersecurity landscape.

    Rick Hanson - President, Go to Market

    Rick Hanson, the President, Go to Market at Forcepoint, orchestrates the company's global market strategy and revenue generation efforts. This executive leadership position focuses on driving sales, channel partnerships, and customer success initiatives to expand Forcepoint's market reach. Hanson oversees the alignment of sales, marketing, and customer support functions to deliver exceptional value and achieve aggressive growth targets. By championing customer-centric approaches, Rick Hanson ensures Forcepoint's solutions effectively meet the evolving cybersecurity needs of businesses across diverse industries. The President, Go to Market's leadership is instrumental in translating technological innovation into tangible business outcomes and solidifying Forcepoint's position as a leader in cybersecurity.
    Rick Hanson

    Emilie McLaughlin - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Emilie McLaughlin, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Forcepoint, architects the company's talent strategy and organizational development. This critical role focuses on cultivating a high-performance culture that supports Forcepoint's human-centric cybersecurity mission. McLaughlin oversees all aspects of human resources, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, and professional development programs. By championing initiatives that foster innovation and collaboration, Emilie McLaughlin ensures the workforce is equipped to meet the evolving demands of the cybersecurity industry. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic direction is vital for attracting and retaining top talent, driving employee satisfaction, and aligning human capital with Forcepoint's global business objectives.
    Naveen Palavalli, the Chief Product Marketing Officer & Chief People Officer & Chief Marketing Officer at Forcepoint, drives integrated strategies across product, marketing, and human capital. This multifaceted leadership position ensures cohesive messaging and talent development that aligns with Forcepoint's cybersecurity vision. Palavalli oversees the go-to-market strategy for Forcepoint's product portfolio, translating technical innovation into compelling market narratives. Simultaneously, the Chief People Officer function focuses on nurturing the company culture and talent pipeline essential for sustained growth. Naveen Palavalli's comprehensive oversight ensures that Forcepoint's market presence and internal capabilities are synergistically developed to achieve global impact.

    Bakshi Kohli - Chief Technology Officer & Head of Global Engineering

    Bakshi Kohli, the Chief Technology Officer & Head of Global Engineering at Forcepoint, directs the company's technological innovation and engineering execution. This pivotal role involves shaping the future of Forcepoint's cybersecurity solutions and overseeing the development of robust, scalable platforms. Kohli leads global engineering teams, ensuring the delivery of cutting-edge products that address complex security challenges for clients worldwide. The Chief Technology Officer's strategic vision guides research and development efforts, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and technological advancement. By driving engineering excellence, Bakshi Kohli ensures Forcepoint remains at the forefront of cybersecurity technology, protecting critical data and infrastructure.
    Bakshi Kohli

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Forcepoint Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Forcepoint?
    Forcepoint is led by Matthew Derdeyn (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Michael Newman (Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer) and Rick Hanson (President, Go to Market).
    Who is part of Forcepoint’s executive team?
    The executive team of Forcepoint includes leaders such as Matthew Derdeyn (Chief Financial Officer), Michael Newman (Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer), Rick Hanson (President, Go to Market) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Forcepoint have?
    Forcepoint has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Forcepoint’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Forcepoint includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, President, Go to Market, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Product Marketing Officer & Chief People Officer & Chief Marketing Officer.