Leadership Spotlight: Brian McElyea

Welcome to RELI Group’s Leadership Spotlight series! In this series, we’ll delve into the background, passions and philosophies of some of Team RELI’s best and brightest minds. Each post includes the same five questions, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the folks that make RELI great.

 

In today’s Leadership Spotlight, meet Dr. Brian McElyea – the person at the helm of RELI Group’s innovation and cutting-edge advancements in cybersecurity, including our recently announced partnership with the Cyber Bytes Foundation! Brian is an Information Security Executive with more than 20 years of experience in the federal, state and local sectors, and currently serves as the Vice President for Cyber Operations at RELI Group. Dr. McElyea has a PhD in Knowledge Management from Walden University, a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Troy State University, and a Bachelor of Science from Widener University in Business Administration. He also proudly served as a Naval Officer for 24 years.

 

Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that influenced your path in government contracting?

There really wasn’t just one single event, but a series of experiences that led me to government contracting. The influence of strong leaders who expected excellence from me was crucial. My extensive Navy background, combined with witnessing adversaries breaching our cyber defenses, made it feel like a natural calling to contribute to this field. My work in network defense, data protection and public speaking about cybersecurity fueled my passion, as did my involvement in shaping national cybersecurity policies. All these experiences combined to guide me toward a career in government contracting.

 

What drives your passion for working in government contracting?

My passion is driven by the government’s “no-fail” mission. Cybersecurity is a national security issue, and a breach in any agency affects all Americans. I am passionate about minimizing or preventing cyber incidents that could impede the government’s mission. The complexity of the problems we face, the highly educated and driven professionals I work with, and the diverse opportunities within this field keep me motivated. The alignment between my personal ethics and the cybersecurity mission further fuels my commitment to this work.

 

How do you approach leadership and team building?

My approach to leadership starts with providing a strategic vision so that everyone has clarity of purpose and direction. Empathy, continuous learning, collaboration and innovation are essential to build a strong team so you can stay ahead of adversaries. I believe in leading by example, showing expertise, a strong work ethic, integrity and accountability. Trust is key—I delegate responsibilities to empower my team, and I emphasize the importance of building a diverse and inclusive team. Fostering a work/life balance is also critical to prevent burnout, ensuring that my team remains effective in this challenging field.

 

What innovations or trends in the cyber sector excite you the most?

The innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) are among the most exciting trends in the cyber sector. Generative AI for threat detection and incident response, adaptive security models, big data analytics, and identity management are transforming cybersecurity. Cloud security, quantum cryptography and advancements in cyber supply chain risk management are also significant. However, the most crucial area may be human risk management—finding innovative ways to address the human element in cybersecurity. The potential of AI to revolutionize the field, particularly in these areas, is incredibly exciting.

 

Can you discuss a project or initiative you’re particularly proud of?

I’m particularly proud of initiatives that have the greatest impact on people, such as innovative ways to prevent phishing attacks or enhancing microlearning to reduce human error. Joining the Cyber Bytes Foundation and contributing to the broader American public’s cybersecurity awareness has been incredibly fulfilling. Building and supporting a cyber practice that recruits, develops and retains top talent is another highlight. Connecting with individuals in the field and ensuring that the frontline operators—those directly engaging with customers—are supported and successful is what I’m most proud of. My role is to ensure their success in whatever way I can.