EMPOWERING WOMEN IN CYBERSECURITY –DIVERSITY IS SECURITY

Tell us more about your role, and how you came to work in cybersecurity.

I joined Delinea (then Thycotic) over five years ago with the remit of establishing a solid foundation for the company in the META region by building a new local team, raising brand awareness, developing a network of qualified partners, and growing the company’s customer base. Having successfully achieved these objectives, today my role has evolved into the management of Delinea’s largest clients in the region and nurturing long-term partnerships to ensure these clients understand our value proposition and that projects are successfully implemented. Supporting and understanding the challenges that regional businesses face daily are key when working in cybersecurity –and I firmly believe that being part of that journey and contributing to the long-term strategies of organisations are key components of building longterm partnerships with clients and partners.

What do you love about your job?

My favourite professional experiences have been working for organisations that leveraged my skills and proficiency in multiple languages including English, German, Arabic and French to build or rebuild their business in emerging markets.

Why is it important to have a diverse workforce in this field? How does it benefit cybersecurity?

With today’s shortage of talent in the cybersecurity industry, it is a no brainer for companies to recruit more women, and more people from diverse backgrounds and cultures as this brings different perspectives and skills to the table. It also allows companies to have a tribe culture where everyone can share their experiences and build teams that work and grow together. There is always something to learn from someone who is of a different background, gender, or level of experience.

Indeed, the success of any organisation depends on the diversity of their workforce. This includes cyber security companies, where addressing issues from as many different angles as possible is key to creating world-class solutions for customers.

How can organizations pave the way for a future of female cybersecurity leaders?

Closing the gender gap won’t happen overnight. It’s good that it is widely discussed, but after words we need actions.

It may seem obvious, but focusing on diversity and inclusivity when recruiting for the roles, would be a good starting point, especially if intake isn’t restricted to those with a background in cybersecurity. Mindset and experience are more important than specific skills, which can always be learned Moreover, cybersecurity is very community driven, with a growing number of groups created by women to help empower women in growing in their roles in the industry.

What would be your advice for someone who wants to start a career in cybersecurity?

Currently, just 20% of the global cybersecurity professionals are female. DEI (Diversity Equity and Inclusion) has been a hot topic for the last couple of years, and specifically diversity as it helps reduce the skills gap and is good for business. This, coupled with the growing need for skilled professionals to advance the development and uptake of AI and innovative technologies in the space, means the cybersecurity industry holds the promise of a rewarding career for women.