Exeter Chief Information Security Officer Jeff Smith honored as finalist for National CISO of Year Award

Exeter Finance LLC, a leading auto finance company, announced that Chief InformationSecurity Officer (CISO) Jeff Smith has been honored as a finalist in the 2025 DallasCISOof the Year ORBIE Award program. He was one of six finalists recognized in theCorporate category during ceremonies held by the InspireCIO Leadership Network at the DallasCISO ORBIE Awards Ceremony inDallas.

Since 2020, Jeff has served as the CISO at Exeter, where he continues to demonstrate excellence in managing complex cybersecurity and technology initiatives. His expertise includes developing and implementing security strategies, managing implementation teams, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

“We are thrilled to see Jeff achieve this top spot in the industry and be recognized as a leading cybersecurity professional,” said Exeter Chief InformationOfficer, Michele Rodgers. “Jeff has driven significant results over the course of his years in the IT industry, and his leadership and experience have proven even more impactful at Exeter, where he serves as a senior technology leader and plays a crucial role in safeguarding the company’s data, enabling corporate growth strategies.”

Smith has an extensive background in information security leadership, having held key executive roles at notable organizations such as Avaya, Direct Energy, the American Bureau of Shipping, Kraton Polymers,JP Morgan Chase, and Enron Broadband Services. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Thomas Edison StateUniversity and a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University, Commerce.