Emily Goodman

Cyber Security Consultant at EY

Emily Goodman joined EY in Sydney as an executive assistant in Assurance in January 2020, just three months before Covid disrupted life for everybody, but she put lockdown to good use.

“I decided to enrich my learning by enrolling into a Master of Cybersecurity course with UNSW which I am still studying part-time whilst working full time,” she says. “Since pursuing my interest in cybersecurity I have been able to transition into the cybersecurity team in the company, and I have not looked back since!”

She is now a cybersecurity consultant in EY’s financial services arm and says she has found her calling: she had already gained a bachelor’s degree in commerce with majors in accounting and marketing. “Before finding my passion in cybersecurity, I felt at a loss as to where my career pathway was going,” she says.

“I completed my undergraduate degree in commerce and started working in a role I wasn’t particularly enjoying. I then joined EY as an executive assistant and after a couple of years was fortunate enough to transition into the cyber team where I can now achieve my purpose and make a difference.

“I believe the relationships I have made in my current role contribute to making my experience really rewarding. I am part of two mentoring programs and they have been a positive experience. It is so valuable to gain advice and guidance from experienced senior colleagues, to be comfortable to share thoughts and sound out career goals with a trusted confidant. Through building relationships I have been presented with opportunities that add value to my career and contribute to my personal growth.”

FACING IMPOSTER SYNDROME

Her transition into cybersecurity has not been without its challenges. “Imposter syndrome can be common and is something I have experienced, whether thinking I am not technical enough, not smart enough or not confident enough for a role in cyber,” she says.

“With advice from some of my mentors, I have realised the importance of embracing these feelings

“It is so valuable to gain advice and guidance from experienced senior colleagues, to be comfortable to share thoughts and sound out career goals with a trusted confidant.“

of doubt. It is impossible to move into a new career path and know all the answers. To embrace the feelings of doubt I remain a passionate learner, learning new skills along the way and taking in the experience.”

MATERNAL INSPIRATION

She says her inspiration to embark on her cybersecurity masters came not from any contemporary influences, but from her mother. “Growing up my mum completed a university degree and CPA as a mature age student whilst working full time and supporting a young family. She has always taught me to keep persevering through challenges I may face, saying I will always overcome them. From her experience I learnt you can achieve anything you set your mind to,” she says, adding, “I am also inspired by the women leaders and colleagues in my workplace. They are motivational and encourage others to be the best versions of themselves.”

As well as being the catalyst for her career transition into cybersecurity, Covid-19 gave Goodman something else: Pilates, which she took up during lockdown. “I think it is important to have something you enjoy outside of work where you can de-stress and allow the feeling of balance,” she says. “I aim to practice Pilates every day when I can, even if it is only for 15 minutes. I find I am more productive when I wake up early and do Pilates, take my dog for a walk, or read a book before starting the workday.”

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