Episode Summary

In this episode of Secured, host Cole Cornford chats with Laura O'Neill from Fujitsu Cyber. Laura shares her journey from a pure maths and cryptography background through management consulting into the world of cybersecurity. She explains how she helped grow MF&A from a small team into a 70-person company before its acquisition by Fujitsu. Cole and Laura discuss the challenges of scaling a cyber practice, the importance of professionalising sales and board-level communications, and how embracing diverse, non-traditional talent can transform the industry. Their conversation offers valuable insights into shifting from a compliance-based mindset to a risk-based strategy that truly supports business objectives.

Timestamps

00:10 - Introduction to Laura O'Neill and her role at Fujitsu Cyber

02:27 - Laura recounts her journey from pure maths and cryptography to cybersecurity

05:31 - Discussing the rapid growth of MF&A from a small team to 70 staff

07:30 - Overcoming scaling challenges through improved processes and support

11:23 - Professionalising sales and board-level communications in cyber

15:30 - Moving from a compliance-driven approach to a risk-based strategy

26:16 - Embracing diversity and non-traditional hiring in cybersecurity

31:20 - The value of diverse backgrounds and soft skills in solving security challenges

40:43 - The importance of empathy and listening in leadership

42:16 - Closing thoughts on security as an enabling function for business success

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