GET TO KNOW an organisation’ s exposure to threats is of crucial importance to stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape. This entails moving away from a reactive approach to vulnerability management and adopting a more proactive exposure management strategy.
What do you think is the current hot technology talking point?
Businesses face greater challenges in securing their environments against emerging AI risks. This is especially the case as Shadow AI – the unsanctioned use of AI tools within organisations – continues to rise. Yet, Ivanti’ s own research has revealed that a third of businesses lack a strategy to address these threats. This highlights the need for
CIOs and CISOs to collaborate closely to understand which AI tools are in use and ensure where they may need additional support. Already, IT and security teams are increasingly looking for unified solutions that not only address AI-related risks but also scale to meet the evolving needs of the organisation and its employees.
How do you deal with stress and unwind outside the office?
I need to start my day with a workout to get in the right frame of mind, but at the end of the day, being with my loved ones and playing a role in shaping my children ' s characters helps me unwind outside the office. I think this balance keeps me grounded amidst the challenges of being a CEO.
If you could go back and change one career decision, what would it be?
I wouldn’ t change anything because it led me to where I am today. I have no what-ifs because I tried various roles and industries to explore what I was most drawn to – and it ultimately led me here.
What do you currently identify as the major areas of investment in your industry?
This approach builds upon existing vulnerability management practices, while also improving them to effectively address modern cyber-risks. By implementing a continuous approach to managing cyberexposure, organisations can effectively safeguard their digital infrastructure and data from cyberthreats.
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months?
Transitioning from COO to CEO has brought about changes in my role and the breadth of my duties. As COO, my primary focus was on managing operational tasks and ensuring they aligned with our overall strategic objectives. However, as CEO, my focus has expanded to include a more long-term strategy-setting perspective, overseeing both the internal and external direction of the company. In the upcoming year, I will be leading Ivanti ' s evolving strategy, but my dedication to our customers remains steadfast. I am still eager to cultivate strong connections with our customers and partners, assisting them in accomplishing their business, IT and security objectives.
What advice would you offer somebody aspiring to obtain a C-level position in your industry?
If you want to reach C-level in the tech industry, you need to take ownership of your own development. Gaining experience in various functions beyond the one you trained for is essential. Our industry moves at breakneck speed, so you must constantly push yourself to learn and evolve, to gain a deep knowledge of the industry as a whole. However, leadership isn’ t just about understanding the product. It is also about how you connect with people – build meaningful, long-lasting relationships with all stakeholders – your employees, customers, partners, executive board and community.
Ultimately, knowledge is the fuel, but trust and respect are the vehicles to drive success as a leader, as well as for the entire business.
One of the key focus areas for IT and security should be exposure management, as the threat landscape is expected to intensify with the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks. Actively managing
Lastly, network. Stay in touch with people that you’ ve worked with and meet as many people as you can. Leading with these approaches will make a real impact. p
74 INTELLIGENTCIO EUROPE www. intelligentcio. com