John Heldreth is a product security leader, entrepreneur, and industry evangelist in the global automotive cybersecurity space. Known for transforming complex challenges into actionable, scalable solutions, he specializes in bridging the gap between business strategy and engineering execution through innovative, systems-driven thinking. In his role at Rivian Volkswagen Technologies, John is shaping the next generation of Cyber Security Management Systems (CSMS), influencing how Rivian, Volkswagen, and other organizations design, operate, and govern security across connected and electric vehicle platforms. Outside of his corporate leadership, John is the founder of the Automotive Security Research Group (ASRG), a global non-profit dedicated to driving collaboration, education, and open innovation across the automotive security ecosystem. Under his guidance, ASRG has grown into one of the world’s leading communities advancing research, thought leadership, and industry capability in vehicle cybersecurity. John holds a degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Purdue University and an MBA in International Business from German Graduate Studies. He currently resides in Berlin, Germany.