Rick Passero
Founder & CEO, Guardantix
You’re evaluating who you’d trust with your security and technology. Here’s what matters.
Short version: an operator who’s run security programs, not a consultant who’s studied them. I’ve protected 2,000+ clients, integrated security for 8 acquisitions, and served as incident commander for 25+ critical incidents. I build security programs that work.
Certifications
CISSP – (ISC)2
CCSP – (ISC)2
SSCP – (ISC)2
AI Strategy – (ISC)2
Security+ – CompTIA
Frameworks
NIST CSF
HIPAA / HICP
SOC 2 Type I & II
PCI-DSS
ISO 27001
Industry Experience
MSP/MSSP Operations
Healthcare IT
PE Portfolio Companies
Financial Services
Professional Services
The Anatomy IT Chapter
From 2021 to 2025, I held the CISO and CIO seats at Anatomy IT, a PE-backed healthcare MSP. I didn’t advise from the sidelines. I ran the security programs.
What I built: A managed security portfolio generating ~$5M annual revenue, projected to reach $10M ARR. Security programs protecting 1,700+ healthcare clients. A security services team that grew from 3 to 10 with consistently high client satisfaction.
What I integrated: Led technology and security workstreams for 8 acquisitions. Developed a standardized M&A playbook. Identified risks that informed deal terms.
What I led: Served as incident commander for 25+ critical security events, including ransomware, data breaches, and regulatory inquiries. Built the incident response capability from scratch.
“He combines a deep, hands-on technical understanding of security, infrastructure, and operations with an uncommon ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations. When incidents happened, he didn’t sit back and delegate. He rolled up his sleeves, stepped in as incident commander, and led with clarity, steadiness, and accountability.”
vCISO, Anatomy IT
“Rick is absolutely fantastic as a manager and as a cyber security professional. Our team always knew Rick would have our backs and advocate for best security practices in the company.”
Cyber Security Analyst, Anatomy IT
Let’s Talk
If your situation sounds like something I can help with, let’s have a conversation.
