Area of Focus
Technology industry Diversity, equity, inclusion
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Joseph Benfatti

Risk Consulting Privacy Practice Leader, National Pride ENG Leader
Area of Focus
Technology industry Diversity, equity, inclusion
Connect

About Joseph

Joe Benfatti is a consulting partner for RSM US LLP, focused on cybersecurity in the firm’s security, privacy and risk consulting practice. He specializes in the technology, media and telecommunications industry, including technology software and platforms that use big data as the primary component of their business model. Based in San Francisco, Joe leads the privacy and risk consulting practices for RSM’s Western markets. He is also national leader of the firm’s Pride employee network group (ENG), formed to enhance understanding of issues faced by LGBTQ+ employees.


Experience

Joe has more than 25 years of experience in risk advisory assurance focused on cybersecurity, privacy and risk consulting. He specializes in security and privacy third-party reporting—system and organization controls (SOC) 1, 2 and 3; WebTrust, agreed-upon procedures—and in technology within the payment card industry, including software as a service, platform as a service, cloud and manufacturing. He has deep experience in multiple industries, including technology, third-party administration, consumer products, entertainment, distribution, private equity, credit reporting, software and data services.

Joe helps clients use big data to improve market penetration and unlock new opportunities for their businesses. His work assists clients in making informed, data-driven decisions that allow them to protect their brand and differentiate their business model. The field of cybersecurity continues to evolve as technologies become more sophisticated and regulations are instituted regarding privacy and how data is used. Joe stays abreast of these changes to inform clients of their impact on their business.

Prior to joining RSM in 2005, Joe was with a Big Four firm in its technology and security risk services practice. Throughout his career, he has focused relentlessly on the key factors that drive business decisions. By adding what he calls the “sixth C”—context—to RSM’s five characteristics of a first-choice advisor—caring, curious, collaborative, courageous and critical thinkers—clients and colleagues can better understand the purpose behind actions to achieve true alignment on every engagement.

As national leader of RSM’s Pride ENG, Joe is a vocal advocate for the firm’s role in providing a safe and supportive environment for RSM’s LGBTQ+ employees, clients and allies. He assists RSM clients who are working to develop similar network groups within their organizations to help them ensure leadership and career development opportunities for all employees.

Joe grew up in Denver and moved to California early in his public accounting career. He lives near the corner of Haight and Ashbury in San Francisco, across from the former home of famed singer-songwriter Janis Joplin.


Professional affiliations and designations

  • Certified public accountant
  • Qualified security assessor

Education

  • Bachelor of Science, accounting, University of Denver
  • Master of Accountancy, University of Denver