Rowland Johnson’s leadership of CREST leaves a deep-rooted legacy
On 1 October 2025, Rowland Johnson will step down as Chair of the CREST International Council, marking the end of an era of exceptional service. Rowland’s tenure as part of CREST’s leadership spans over a decade, and his impact on the organisation has been deeply felt. As he prepares to hand over the reins, the CREST community takes this opportunity to reflect on Rowland’s substantial contributions, in particular his visionary leadership, global mindset, and personal dedication that have shaped CREST’s journey.
Global Expansion and Visionary Leadership
Rowland’s involvement with CREST began in 2014 when he joined the CREST GB Council. From the very start, he pushed the organisation to “think bigger and go further”. By 2016, he was leading the charge to take CREST onto the global stage. This ambitious effort ultimately gave rise to the worldwide footprint CREST enjoys today. He was instrumental in establishing CREST chapters and regional bodies in the United States, Singapore, Australia and Hong Kong – few people other than Rowland could have achieved such successes while simultaneously running a successful international business of his own. Thanks in no small part to his vision and drive, CREST’s impact has grown considerably, creating a truly international community of cyber security organisations and professionals united under the CREST banner.
After a brief hiatus, Rowland returned to CREST in 2021 to guide the organisation through a pivotal transition. Stepping in as President during a time of change, he quickly set about implementing forward-looking reforms. He led a comprehensive overhaul of CREST’s governance structure, establishing the International Council to better unite and represent CREST’s global regions. Under Rowland’s guidance, CREST also underwent a brand refresh and forged new strategic partnerships to expand its reach and influence. Importantly, he strengthened CREST’s internal foundations by bolstering the management team – including the appointment of Nick Benson as CEO in 2022 to drive the organisation’s next chapter. A new long-term strategy soon followed, and many of the successes that CREST has achieved in recent years are rooted in Rowland’s transformative leadership. Through these efforts, he has helped ensure that CREST remains robust, forward-thinking, and ever more valuable to its members and the industry.
A Lasting Legacy and Continued Commitment
Throughout his tenure, Rowland became the face of CREST on the global stage. He has tirelessly travelled worldwide to represent CREST at conferences, industry gatherings, and government meetings, passionately championing the organisation’s mission to raise professional standards in cyber security. Colleagues and members recall seeing him front and centre at countless events – always willing to listen, engage, and offer help – exemplifying the collaborative spirit at the heart of CREST. His approachable demeanour and earnest enthusiasm for CREST’s goals helped forge strong relationships with government agencies, regulators, member companies, and partner organisations around the world.
Rowland’s legacy is also informed by his wider career as an innovator and entrepreneur. A founding director of the cybersecurity firm Nettitude, he built the company from a small start-up in 2003 into a global consultancy, eventually overseeing its successful acquisition by Lloyd’s Register in 2018 (now formally integrated into LRQA). He brought that same pioneering energy and business acumen to his role at CREST, ensuring the organisation remained dynamic and responsive to a fast-evolving industry.
As the newly elected International Council Chair, Rodrigo Marcos Alvarez, starts his tenure, Rowland has pledged to support Rodrigo during the transition and remain a close friend of CREST. Reflecting on his time at CREST, Rowland said:
“It has been an honour to serve this incredible community. Looking back at what we’ve achieved – from expanding into new regions to strengthening professional standards – I feel immensely proud. I want to thank the CREST team, our members and partners for their unwavering support throughout my tenure. While I am stepping back from my role, I will always remain part of the CREST family, and I’m excited to see the organisation go from strength to strength.”
On behalf of the entire CREST community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Rowland Johnson for his outstanding leadership and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. His vision, integrity, and dedication have profoundly shaped CREST’s journey and positioned the organisation for continued success. As Rowland passes the baton to Rodrigo, we wish him the very best in his next chapter, confident that CREST will continue to build on the strong foundation he helped establish.
