Life At Protiviti

13-Time Microsoft MVP Leads Cybersecurity Innovations at Protiviti

Antonio Maio

Technology Consulting, Toronto

Antonio Maio is a 13-time Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP). This prestigious annual recognition celebrates his cybersecurity expertise and underscores his deep commitment to technological excellence and leadership in the field. Antonio’s 13-year recognition as an MVP attests to his contributions to the Microsoft community and technologies, his commitment to innovation, and his influence in the tech community.

 

"Cybersecurity is not just about technology; it's about understanding the business and the people behind it. Our goal is to create solutions that empower organizations to thrive in a digital landscape."

 

Innovating for Enhanced Security

Leveraging his experience and insights, Antonio has led Protiviti’s Microsoft team in Canada to deploy sophisticated cybersecurity and information protection controls globally that seamlessly leverage Microsoft technologies. Among his notable projects is the implementation of information protection controls and solutions from Microsoft Purview at large financial services and public sector clients, helping them prepare to effectively roll out generative AI solutions like Microsoft 365 Copilot. Among other capabilities, these solutions provide predictive analytics that preemptively identify potential security breaches, offering clients robust protection against cyber threats. Antonio and the Protiviti Canada team have developed an innovative approach for rolling out data protection solutions that minimize disruption to business processes and impact to end users, helping to achieve greater buy-in and adoption at all levels within our clients’ organizations. 

"Cybersecurity is not just about technology; it's about understanding the business and the people behind it. Our goal is to create solutions that empower organizations to thrive in a digital landscape," Antonio shares.

Building Bridges in Tech: Enhancing Global Collaboration

Antonio's role extends beyond cybersecurity innovations; he also is a central point of contact who fosters global collaboration within Protiviti, enhancing Protiviti’s offerings across the portfolio of client industries – including the public sector, particularly through the Microsoft MVP program.

Antonio's efforts in connecting Protiviti’s Canadian operations with its global counterparts are leading to more cohesive and streamlined client services. "When clients have technical questions or run into an issue, we can leverage our relationships within Microsoft or other teams to help them get resolution faster," he notes.

Mentoring and Leadership

Beyond project leadership, Antonio is passionate about mentoring emerging IT professionals.

As an MVP, Antonio has a platform for leading workshops and seminars focused on Microsoft technologies and their application in cybersecurity. By fostering a learning environment, he enhances Protiviti’s internal capabilities and supports the professional growth of his team members.

He also shares his knowledge beyond our clients and team with a well-followed Microsoft 365 blog and podcast on data security and privacy solutions, providing valuable insights and interviews with industry experts.

Antonio’s experience as an MVP is central to his leadership at Protiviti, where he advances cybersecurity innovations that protect and empower clients, demonstrating our focus on delivering for our teams and our clients.

Learn more about Antonio’s insights on cybersecurity.

More stories of our people

Trish Finnemore: Protiviti’s senior global marketing director coordinates APAC and Europe teams from Australia, meeting with U.S., Asia, and Europe to collaborate globally and leverage digital trends in marketing.

Sofia Palacios: Originally from Venezuela, found consulting through a Protiviti mentorship, which led to an internship and a successful full-time role. Her dedication to learning, growth, and team support exemplifies Life at Protiviti.

Johana ten Hove: Tasked with expanding the Zurich practice to meet client needs, Johana stepped up to plate. By going out of her way to care for her clients, colleagues and practice, Johana’s story is a shining example of Life at Protiviti.

Champaigne Powell: As a senior recruiter on Protiviti’s recruiting team, Champaigne spends a lot of her time working closely with students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Lindsey Higgins: Since transitioning from a contractor to a full-time employee, Lindsey has thrived at Protiviti. “Everyone has taken me under their wing and genuinely supported me,” she says. “I’ve never felt that way in a company before.”

Aimee Bhakthavachalam: Aimee journey at Protiviti showcases her relentless drive for growth and innovation, tackling client data challenges, embracing new skills, and committing to continuous learning, problem-solving, and excellence.

Bart Bradley: Bart's journey at Protiviti exemplifies visionary leadership and innovation. Tasked with creating the Americas Delivery Center, he embraced new ideas, built a strong foundation, and cultivated a team that delivers consistent excellence.

Nick Ciafardini: Nick combined his passion for sports and data analytics to help develop an app that improved golfer Matt Fitzpatrick's game. This project showcased how technology and collaboration can drive success in sports performance.

Hendrik Sadie: Hendrik joined Protiviti in 2013, and thrives despite Treacher Collins Syndrome and severe hearing loss. Originally from South Africa, he finds support at Protiviti, where the firm's inclusivity efforts have enabled his success.

Chintan Thakkar: Chintan’s journey from teen immigrant to Managing Director in Dallas embodies the essence of collaboration at Protiviti. His story of bridging gaps and uniting diverse perspectives showcases how collaboration drives our success.

Joshua Cloud: Manager Joshua excels in cybersecurity at Protiviti while leading diversity efforts through BEING Men, fostering a culture of inclusivity.

Rupert Fischer: A graduate consultant in the Protiviti London office, Rupert bridges his passion for consulting and client service with his commitment to the British Army Reserve.

Brittany Parker: Brittany drives recognition programs that elevate employee morale and client experiences, fostering a culture of gratitude and innovation across the global team.

Keeva Stuart: Keeva’s dedication to pushing creative boundaries to deliver efficient solutions for clients and her belief in the strength of teamwork elevate the firm’s capabilities and enhance client outcomes.

Aimee Mills: Aimee embodies the values of Life At Protiviti by pursuing leadership growth through INSPIRE and driving community impact with the Women’s Global Education Project, showing a commitment beyond business to prioritise care for all.

Cara Sylvers: As Associate Director in IAFA and President of BEING, Cara Sylvers fosters an inclusive culture while delivering client-centric strategies at Protiviti.

Branson Brade: Manager in Technology Consulting at Protiviti, guides clients in evaluating Business Continuity programs. He emphasizes team integration and mutual respect for successful client engagement.

Sydney Brown: A Senior Consultant at Protiviti in Tampa, drives client success through innovative solutions, process enhancements and an enduring commitment to inclusion.

Ken Thomas: Managing Director at Protiviti, drives business transformation through strategic leadership, inclusion and innovative solutions.

Chenell York: Chenell cares about delivering exceptional experiences. Through work with clients and internal teams alike, Chenell is focused on pioneering innovative, impactful solutions.

Kenisha Babwah: Kenisha was looking for a clear career trajectory, variety, and a way to further her passion for cybersecurity. She hit the mark when she joined Protiviti's Managed Security Services & Security Operations.

Alice Short: Director of Technology Consulting at Protiviti, drives innovation and inclusivity in tech, enhancing client outcomes and women's representation.

Michael Jacobs: Michael initiated a transformative hackathon at Protiviti, fostering learning and innovation. This event drew 500+ employees globally, enhancing skills in cryptocurrency and transaction monitoring.

Jessica Wang: For Jessica, it’s all about connections. By building strong, collaborative relationships for our clients and with her peers, she helps drive successful enterprise business solutions, fosters innovation and drives long-term impact.

Rich Miller: Rich blends his passion for innovation and creation with his extensive tech expertise to deliver AI solutions for clients via Protiviti’s AI Studio.

Craig Burgon: Craig is a driving force in Protiviti’s digital transformation. As an early adopter of Gen AI tools, he now plays a key role in increasing adoption across teams and delivering impactful client solutions.

Ryan O’Shea: Ryan understands the importance of asking the right questions. His journey from intern to consultant in lender due diligence highlights the value Protiviti places on curiosity to drive both personal growth and client success.

Kevin Kong: Based in Los Angeles, He is a Risk and Compliance Analytics leader at Protiviti. He merges data-driven strategies with actionable insights to deliver impactful solutions that drive client success.

Jeremy Wildhaber: Jeremy is a leader in Internal Audit Tech Enablement, driving automation, AI, analytics, and audit tools for audit and compliance teams.

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