Melissa Aarskaug is the Executive Vice President of Strategy and Growth at DruvStar, a leading cybersecurity company delivering Managed Detection & Response, Vulnerability Assessments, and AI/ML-powered data protection. In this role, Melissa develops and leads growth strategies and forges partnerships that expand DruvStar’s market presence. She directs end-to-end business development efforts, from lead generation and contract negotiations to client success, while also shaping integrated marketing initiatives that strengthen DruvStar’s brand and support long-term growth. Melissa also collaborates closely with product teams to align offerings with client needs, ensuring continuous innovation, stronger market fit and an exceptional customer experience.

In addition to her executive role, Melissa is a recognized industry leader and community builder. She hosts the Executive Connect podcast, serves on the boards of Global Gaming Business and Global Gaming Women, and is a frequent speaker and panel moderator at major industry events. Her contributions have been honored with Global Gaming Business magazine’s Emerging Leaders of Gaming: 40 Under 40 recognition, Gaming & Leisure and the Patty Becker Pay It Forward Award from Global Gaming Women.

Melissa is also the co-author of Renaissance: Redefining Success for Modern Mavericks, a book that challenges traditional definitions of achievement and inspires readers to design success on their own terms.

She holds dual degrees in Civil and Environmental Engineering, combining technical rigor with strategic vision to drive transformation, scale organizations, and help clients succeed in an increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape.