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In the vast, dynamic realm of the internet, where opportunities and risks often seem to grow in tandem, Sarah Decker stands as a steadfast guardian of safety and trust. As the chief legal officer of McAfee, a global innovator in software security, Decker isn’t just practicing law—she’s shaping a safer digital future for millions. And she’s doing it with a sense of purpose that’s as personal as it is professional.
“I love working at a company that has a noble mission,” Decker shares, her passion evident in every word. “Keeping people safe online is one of the most important things we can do these days. We live our lives digitally, so everything we do here is geared toward protecting our customers’ entire digital lives.”
Decker’s journey to this pivotal role is as inspiring as her work. Raised on a family farm in rural central Illinois, she dreamed of a life beyond the fields. She was the first in her family to attend a four-year university, earning her degree from Arizona State University. Though journalism initially sparked her interest, Decker soon realized her calling lay in the law, enrolling at SMU’s Dedman School of Law.
“I’m always asking, ‘What’s next? How can we meet the needs of the business and our customers?’”
Sarah Decker
During her time there, she interned with Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn, who she describes as an inspiration. Decker reflects on her time with Judge Lynn, that “she showed me what it means to lead with strength and integrity.”
After graduating in 2006, Decker cut her teeth in the high-pressure world of complex commercial litigation at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP. The financial crisis of 2008 thrust her into high-profile cases, including the Lehman Brothers and General Motors bankruptcies. It was an intense and formative time, giving her invaluable courtroom experience and sharpening her skills under the most challenging circumstances.
Yet Decker felt a pull toward something different—something closer to the heartbeat of innovation. She transitioned to an in-house role at STMicroelectronics, immersing herself in intellectual property law and falling in love with the fast-paced world of tech. “I understood the importance of IP protections and everything that does for a company and society,” she says.
In 2018, Decker joined McAfee, drawn to the company’s forward-thinking vision and commitment to protecting people in an increasingly digital world. Initially leading the litigation function, she quickly took on more responsibilities, helping McAfee evolve beyond its roots as a traditional antivirus provider.
“McAfee is doing cool things,” Decker says with a smile. “We’re so much more than just the antivirus company of the past. We’re protecting identity, enhancing privacy, and even leveraging generative AI to detect threats like email and text scams as well as deepfake videos.”
Her enthusiasm is infectious as she describes McAfee’s pioneering work with AI. “When you go online now, seeing is no longer believing,” Decker explains. “We’re helping people identify what’s AI generated and potentially not real. That’s going to be one of the biggest challenges of our time and I’m excited to be part of the solution.”
The fast-changing world of online security demands constant vigilance and adaptability, a challenge Decker embraces wholeheartedly. She stays ahead by immersing herself in the latest developments, reading voraciously, and engaging with her colleagues. “Every day brings something new,” she says. “I’m always asking, ‘What’s next? How can we meet the needs of the business and our customers?’”
“We live our lives digitally, so everything we do here is geared toward protecting our customers’ entire digital lives.”
Sarah Decker
Beyond the office, Decker finds balance and joy in her personal life. Whether she’s diving into a good book, skiing down slopes, or spending time with horses, she relishes the moments that ground her and recharge her spirit.
But it’s her work at McAfee, protecting people in a world that’s becoming increasingly complex, that gives her the greatest sense of purpose. “I love having a real purpose to help people,” she says. “Helping people stay safe online—that’s meaningful work. Every day, I get to make a little difference.”
From a farm in Illinois to the forefront of digital security, Decker’s journey is a testament to the power of dreaming big, working hard, and staying true to a mission that matters. She’s not just a legal expert—she’s a force for good in a digital world that needs champions like her more than ever.
“Sarah has a deep appreciation for legal strategy and how it impacts the business goals of McAfee. In addition to her ability to resolve existing disputes in a favorable way, Sarah is always looking around the corner to get ahead of any risks that may face McAfee and is a leader who is respected by her team.”
–Yvette Ostolaza, Chair, Sidley Austin Management Committee
