Introducing women with a deep interest in cybersecurity

Wendy is the country head of cyber security sales for one of the largest global technology MNCs, with Singapore as its Asia Pacific headquarters. As a leader in cyber security, Wendy is passionate about helping companies to overcome security challenges, elevate security posture and meet business goals. She believes that security should not only by its design, but also its simplicity to implement, operate and complement business objectives.

What brought you to the cybersecurity industry?

I started my journey in cybersecurity after I graduated from university. I was trained in banking and finance but quite by chance I started my first job as a business development executive for a local cybersecurity start-up. Without any IT and cybersecurity background, I had to learn everything from scratch. It wasn’t easy in the beginning, but it grew on me. I enjoyed learning about cybersecurity, from its multi-faceted approach to threat intelligence and automation using AI, ML to counter cyber-attacks, and fast evolving market landscape and its growing business opportunities.

What were your defining moments in this industry, and factors or guidance that helped you achieve them?

I believe the first decade of my career working for system integration and distribution start-ups built my foundation in cybersecurity knowledge and industry networks. However, more importantly, it was the bosses, colleagues, mentors, and coaches who supported and believed in me during different phases of my career, who gave me opportunities to expand my capacity, that got me to where I am today. As a manager and mentor today, I value the importance of spending time outside work to help others to develop their potential, build the tenacity for challenges and possibilities to help them succeed in their careers.

What is it that you love most about your role?

I am most motivated when I can meet my work objectives and same time create a positive impact for my clients and the industry. It gives me a great sense of meaning and accomplishment when I can help organizations and governments to stay secure amidst the fast-evolving cyberthreats. I am excited to play a role in advocating cybersecurity and building the next generation cybersecurity talents for the industry.

Prominent Cybersecurity trends:

What are some of the trends you have seen in the market lately, and what do you think will emerge in the future?

In today’s digital-first world, cybersecurity needs to be foundational to all digitalization efforts. The recent trends of supply chain attacks has taught us to understand that cybersecurity is a team sport. It requires all stakeholders, from government, to companies, to educational institutions and end users to work together. A key aspect of building a stronger foundation for cybersecurity is doing a better job educating and building employee awareness. Fundamental security principles like Zero Trust is also crucial to help enhance company’s security framework to manage their risk exposure from multiple threat vectors in a hybrid work environment.

Females in Cyber Security

What can we do to encourage more women to join the cybersecurity sector?

As an industry, we should continue to work on education, awareness, mentorship and support groups for school students, fresh graduates or mid-career individuals who are interested to find a way into cybersecurity. For women who are in cybersecurity, we want to empower and support one another. We can share our journey to inspire others and be a mentor to those in their early careers or mid-career switches.

Final thoughts

How can you debunk the myth that cybersecurity is only for men? Is there any indication this stereotyping is changing?

“To our female youths and women in their early or mid-careers who are passionate about technology and innovation, possess the interest in keeping our digital world a better and safe place, do consider a career in Cybersecurity. Dare to reimagine for new possibilities and challenge yourself to learn new things. Recognise that your abilities along with this industry are limitless, and you can create an impact in the industry. An industry where there is much room for growth, development and innovation.”