Why Security is the Non-Negotiable Infrastructure Foundation | An Interview with Board Member Fredrik Runnquist
Date: 2025-09-10
Author: Versasec
Today, we are joined by Fredrik Runnquist, an insightful board member of Versasec. With 28 years as a Head of IT and CIO at major institutions like Ericsson and Swedbank, and as a co-author on IT leadership, Fredrik offers a rare, authoritative view from the front lines of large-scale IT operations. This conversation focuses purely on the essential nature of robust security—a perspective crucial for every executive responsible for risk and digital foundation.
From CIO to Board Strategist: Recognizing the Foundation
Gabriela: Fredrik, thank you for sharing your journey. What initially attracted you to Versasec, and how does your background inform your current oversight?
Fredrik: For three decades, I was managing complex IT infrastructures at scale. My experience has taught me what is optional versus what is foundational. When I first encountered Versasec’s solution, I immediately recognized it as an indispensable component.
It’s a powerful, necessary part of the security puzzle. Given my background as both an MBA and a Civil Engineer, I saw it not just as a technology purchase, but as a critical investment opportunity in long-term operational resilience. I joined the board to ensure the company’s direction remains aligned with the core demands of large-enterprise IT leadership.
Security as the Unwavering Bedrock: Mitigating Catastrophic Risk
Gabriela: How do you categorize the role of robust security in today’s digital strategy?
Fredrik: The core philosophy is clear: robust security is an essential infrastructure puzzle piece, the permanent, unwavering bedrock upon which all digital innovation is built.
This long-held view is now undeniably validated at the executive level. In my network, I can confirm that security is consistently a top-two priority discussed at CIO gatherings. It’s a risk factor that can halt production and erode value overnight, as continuously proven by high-profile cyberattacks that disrupt global operations. Security is not an optional feature; it is the foundation of business continuity.
Furthermore, solutions focused on strong identity and credential management, the category we operate in, are now more front and center in the strategic dialogue than they were when this company was founded. They are a vital defense layer required for modern passwordless or zero-trust architectures. When CIOs allocate their limited IT budgets, the core argument for foundational security is now about mitigating catastrophic business risk. Neglecting this foundation is a business liability that cannot be ignored.
Pragmatic Investment and Operational Resilience
Gabriela: Given the strategic imperative, what factors separate a truly effective vendor from a liability?
Fredrik: The best vendors understand they are partners in our operational resilience. I valued vendors who focused on our efficiency. A key lesson I learned: true customer commitment is shown when a company proactively helps you optimize your configurations and implementation, ensuring you are using the solution as efficiently as possible. That level of partnership builds eternal loyalty.
This focus on efficiency extends directly to usability on the ground. For IT managers, we know the User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) are far more than aesthetics. We are highly enthusiastic about the planned investments in a modern, intuitive UI/UX. For our customers, this means reduced exposure, higher efficiency, and a security tool that integrates seamlessly into the daily workflow. We are committed to delivering the core security function with minimal friction and maximum clarity.
An Unambiguous Perspective for IT
Fredrik’s experience on the buying side provides an unambiguous directive for any enterprise technology provider. His insights underscore that winning the IT budget battle requires demonstrating strategic understanding, proving superior customer commitment, and continuously perfecting the core product—from its foundational security function to its seamless operational interface. This perspective ensures that Versasec’s strategy remains aligned with the critical risk mitigation needs of CIOs globally.
Next Step for Leadership: Building Your Credential Strategy
If Fredrik Runnquist’s insights resonate with your organization’s focus on mitigating catastrophic risk and operational efficiency, it may be time to assess your credential management capabilities. We invite CIOs and senior IT leaders to schedule an identity strategy consultation with our identity experts to determine how vSEC:CMS can solidify your infrastructure, accelerate your journey to passwordless security, and optimize your overall security portfolio.
About vSEC:CMS and vSEC:CLOUD
vSEC:CMS is the enterprise platform discussed throughout the interview, serving as the critical Credential Management System designed to simplify the issuance, management, and lifecycle control of all forms of digital credentials, including Smart Cards, Virtual Smart Cards, and software-based certificates. It is the core solution that enables organizations to implement modern passwordless and Zero Trust architectures, helping CIOs secure their foundational infrastructure while dramatically reducing operational overhead for IT teams.
vSEC:CLOUD is Versasec’s credential management software vSEC:CMS as a service. Subscription based, deployed in a virtual private cloud with full customer separation, Versasec manages vSEC:CMS server hosting, maintenance and upgrades for customers.
About Fredrik Runnquist
Fredrik Runnquist is an esteemed IT executive, strategy advisor, and co-author of the influential book IT and Leadership – Do IT Right (2010). His deep understanding of enterprise technology stems from a distinguished 28-year career serving as Head of IT and CIO at leading organizations including Ericsson and Swedbank. Beyond his professional roles, Fredrik is highly involved with the Swedish Computer Society, where he facilitates the influential CIO Network. He holds an MBA and a Civil Engineering degree, providing him with a unique, grounded perspective on the critical intersection of technology, finance, and leadership. He currently serves as a Versasec Board Member.
About Gabriela Peralta
Gabriela Peralta is a member of the Public Relations team, based in Germany. She holds a technical degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) from The University of Texas at Austin, combining a background in technology with experience in content strategy and public relations. Prior to Versasec, Gabriela served in various international marketing and public relations capacities across multiple countries, including extensive work in South America. She orchestrates much of the company’s external messaging, blog content, and case studies, focusing on connecting Versasec’s foundational technology with the needs of global enterprises.
Note: This blog was polished with the help of AI.
vSEC:CMS
Our product suite provides all the software tools to administrate and manage credentials in a secure and convenient way.
Free Product Trial
Versasec provides enabling IT security products centered on the usage of security devices such as smart cards. Our solutions enable customers to securely authenticate, issue and manage user credentials more cost effectively. Get a free product trial.
Job Openings
We are always looking for new exceptional persons to join our team! Find out more about our job openings.