Inspiring Grads: Commerce 3

Roshan Harneker

Job history

2021–Present Head: Cybersecurity Services KHIPU Networks Limited

2017–2020 Senior Manager: Information and Cybersecurity Services University of Cape Town

2013–2017 Senior Manager: Educational Technology Services University of Cape Town

2007–2013 Manager: 2d Level IT Helpdesk University of Cape Town

2011–2015 Digital Forensics Practitioner A2 Consulting

Academic history

2016–2019 Master of Commerce specialising in Information Systems: Digital Forensics University of Cape Town

2009–2010 BCom Honours specialising in Information Systems University of Cape Town

2006–2009 BCom specialising in Information Systems University of Cape Town

Describe your job – what do you do?

Currently I head up cybersecurity services for a managed security services provider (MSSP) and create new security service offerings for the company. What I enjoy about my role is having the green fields and autonomy to create something new on a regular basis. It’s a plus that I also get to work with new technologies and still get to work alongside other universities helping to shape their respective security journeys.

How have your degrees helped you to get where you are?

My degrees helped shape my critical thinking abilities and assisted when I applied for roles that required a specific degree level. They also helped with providing a very firm theoretical knowledge base relating to digital forensics and security concepts.

What has been a highlight of your career?

I have several [highlights] spanning UCT and my current employer. At UCT the highlight of my career was being part of the 5-year classroom renewal project and knowing my contribution positively and significantly affected teaching and learning at Africa’s top university. Other highlights included being able to guest lecture for two universities over the past decade – an experience I thoroughly enjoy. At my current role, I really enjoy being able to architect new solutions.

What advice would you give to graduates that want to follow in your footsteps?

Proactively seek out a mentor in the field relevant to your interests and/or studies. Look for opportunities to intern or continually apply the theoretical knowledge you’re gaining if you’re low on relevant work experience. Remember that education doesn’t end (in this line of work) when you’re awarded a degree or certification. When you embark on a career in digital forensics and/or information security, to be effective, you need to become a life-long learner.

What is the next thing you want to achieve and/or learn?

Most likely a PhD focused on digital forensics or information security.

How do you see cybersecurity evolving in the near future?

Cybersecurity is ever evolving. Malicious actors actively exploit both old and new vulnerabilities and have even commodified the exploitation thereof, one small example being ransomware. There’s also a well-documented global dearth of cybersecurity skills making this discipline not only sought-after, but also a viable career choice.