Cybersecurity
Resume:
TARA LIGHTNER
*************@*****.***
OVERVIEW
Multidisciplinary professional pivoting from SaaS sales and marketing into cybersecurity, bringing a rare blend of technical insight and business acumen. Completing a Master of Science in Cybersecurity in January 2026 with a 3.9 GPA. Adept at aligning technology solutions with organizational priorities, strengthening digital infrastructure, and safeguarding sensitive information. Recognized for clear communication, consultative problemsolving, and the ability to translate complex technical concepts into practical, actionable strategies across diverse environments.
Core Competencies:
Cybersecurity & Systems Integration: Familiar with HRIS, Talent & Learning Management Systems, and Payroll platforms. Skilled in technical writing, research synthesis, and presenting cybersecurity concepts to non-technical audiences.
Risk Awareness & Client Engagement: Proven background in business development and advisory services, leveraging expertise to identify vulnerabilities, guide secure solution adoption, and strengthen organizational resilience over the long term.
Collaborative Leadership: Committed to mentoring and team growth. Skilled in leading and supporting cross-functional groups, fostering knowledge-sharing, and driving strategic execution in fast-paced, evolving environments.
EDUCATION
Wilmington University, New Castle, DE, Master’s of Cybersecurity with a SCADA concentration.
3.9 GPA
Coursework includes:
oRisk Analysis: Identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in business networks to reduce exposure to cyber threats.
oNetwork Defense: Design and implement secure infrastructures using firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and advanced data protection techniques.
oCybersecurity Training: Lead awareness sessions on phishing recognition and safe digital practices.
oSecurity Policy Development: Create customized cybersecurity policies tailored to operational needs.
oIncident Response & Breach Management: Deploy proactive strategies to minimize disruption during security breaches.
oData Protection: Ensure data security through encryption, routine backups, and access control protocols.
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, Bachelor of Science in Marketing.
National Honor Society, Kappa Omicron Nu
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Tandem Cyber Solutions – Independent Sales Rep
June 2025 – Present
Spearheading sales and marketing initiatives for a boutique cybersecurity firm. Oversee campaign development and client engagement while integrating advanced cybersecurity methodologies to safeguard digital infrastructure and ensure data integrity.
Specialize in promoting penetration testing services and offensive security solutions tailored to industrial environments.
Emphasis on protecting critical infrastructure and SCADA/ICS systems through targeted risk assessments and proactive defense strategies.
ADP - HCM Digital Sales Manager
Jan 2021 - March 2023
Tara Lightner Resume Page 2
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE CONTINUED
Led complex HR outsourcing solutions, assisting organizations in mitigating risk, saving time, and attracting top talent through Comprehensive Services.
●Achieved 100% Club recognition in the first year.
●Established relationships with C-level executives to optimize HR strategies.
●Provided technical expertise in HRIS platforms.
●Developed and executed territory business plans and outreach strategies, including cold calling and email campaigns.
●Advised two sales teams (20+ reps each) on industry best practices.
AbsenceSoft – Account Executive
Jan 2018 – Nov 2019
Spearheaded sales for a startup leave-of-absence SaaS provider, driving market expansion and increasing revenue.
Increased territory sales by 500%.
Exceeded quota within 4 months, landing a 3-year contract with a major university.
Expanded a prospect pipeline 6 annual quota through innovative lead generation.
Saba Software - Technical Marketing Manager – Promoted
Sept 2016 – Sept 2017
Positioned Saba’s learning management platform in the market, crafting strategic messaging, technical content, and product differentiation.
Created a $6M pipeline through targeted marketing strategies.
Formulated product positioning, messaging, and demos to drive lead generation.
Hosted weekly product tours showcasing problem-solving techniques in talent management.
Saba Software – Solution Consultant / Demonstration Specialist
Mar 2014 – Sept 2016
Designed and led Live Daily Demo marketing initiatives to showcase product capabilities.
Provided pre-sales solutions consulting to prospects.
Supported onboarding and best practices for new customers.
REAL ESTATE/HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE
Served as Realtor and Broker Associate at Living ’s Real Estate Boutique and Keller Williams, guiding clients through property transactions while cultivating a robust sales pipeline and delivering personalized service in a competitive market.
While at Embassy Suites Denver–Aurora, concentrated on the Government sector in group sales, exceeding revenue goals through account growth, trade shows, site inspections, and team leadership.
Sales Manager at Crowne Plaza Denver International Airport, drove a sixfold increase in the sales pipeline and surpassed revenue targets by implementing strategic prospecting initiatives and optimizing client conversion strategies.
Meeting Planner with ConferenceDirect, site selection, contract negotiation, and conference management.
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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Athlete
oSoccer - 4 years Varsity Forward, All Conference, Colorado State Champion
oTrack - Varsity, All State and Junior Olympian Sprinter and Long Jumper, 5th in Washington State 4x100m relay.
Multidisciplinary Artist - Painter, designer of costume and jewelry, and author of screenplays, series, and children’s literature.
Advocate - Child advocate against abuse; volunteer with Operation Underground Railroad to combat human trafficking; support individuals in recovering stolen online accounts and digital identities.
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