The Cyber Readiness Institute (CRI) has appointed Sasha Pailet Koff as its new managing director. With over 25 years of experience in senior leadership roles at Dell Technologies and Johnson & Johnson, Koff has been at the forefront of advancing digital supply chain and enterprise transformation initiatives.
In this role, Koff will lead CRI’s mission to provide free cyber-readiness resources to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) worldwide while also strengthening the cybersecurity of global supply chains. CRI was founded to address the growing cybersecurity challenges faced by SMBs, which often serve as critical links in larger global supply chains. The nonprofit organization develops practical tools and training programs to help small businesses implement strong cybersecurity practices, mitigating risks that could impact major enterprises, industries, and public institutions.
CRI operates under the Center for Global Enterprise, a New York-based nonprofit applied research organization. Its members include some of the world’s leading companies and organizations, including Apple, Mastercard, Microsoft, T-Mobile, and the Center for Global Enterprise, to promote best practices in cybersecurity. By fostering a community of cyber-ready businesses, CRI helps create more resilient and secure supply chains, ensuring that companies of all sizes can thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
Koff brings a wealth of expertise to CRI. In her senior leadership roles at global enterprises, she has played a pivotal role in advancing digital supply chain initiatives that incorporate AI and data science technologies. Building on this experience, she founded So Help Me Understand LLC, where, as President, she provides strategic guidance to C-suite executives to help them successfully deliver supply chain and digital best practices through her work with Fortune 50 companies and venture-backed startups.
Koff also co-chairs the Digital Supply Chain Institute, a nonprofit focused on advancing digital supply chain practices. In this capacity, she guides the institute’s research agenda and advises member organizations on implementing innovative supply chain strategies.
“I am incredibly honored to step into this role and excited for the opportunity to help strengthen small businesses—some of the most vulnerable yet critical components of our supply chains,” Koff said. “CRI’s mission is more crucial than ever, affecting the everyday experiences of people around the world. I look forward to working with its members to scale its impact here in the U.S. and globally.”
Christopher Caine, president of the Center for Global Enterprise, emphasized Koff’s extensive leadership experience and the impact she will have at CRI. “Sasha’s senior executive experience brings deep business expertise and understanding to CRI. Her decades of leadership in supply chains and digital technologies will enable CRI to expand its global impact and elevate its mission to new heights. Her passion for helping small businesses become more cyber-ready and trusted partners with larger enterprises aligns perfectly with CRI’s goals.”
Koff succeeds Karen S. Evans, who, after a brief role as a senior advisor, has been appointed executive assistant director for cybersecurity at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Under Evans’ leadership, CRI expanded its global reach and strengthened cybersecurity initiatives for SMBs.
Koff takes over an organization that has grown to reach SMBs worldwide. Downloads of the CRI’s free tools and guides reached nearly 30,000, and through CRI’s cyber readiness programs and series of global webinars, CRI has engaged organizations across 178 countries.
