Dr. Joye Purser is the field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Veritas, a software company specializing in data backup systems. Veritas' global leadership in cybersecurity plays a critical role in data backup and restoration in the cybersecurity landscape.
Dr. Purser's career ranges from her time at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to roles at the Pentagon and the White House.
Dr. Purser talks about common misconceptions regarding working in the government in the field of technology and notes the increasing trend of tech companies recruiting individuals with defense and military backgrounds due to rising threats to the private sector.
There is an evolution in cybersecurity, particularly post-pandemic, with an increased sophistication of cyber threats and a rise of ransomware attacks. There is now a heightened focus on critical infrastructure security and a new outlook on the potential life-threatening consequences of cyber disruptions.
The qualities of effective cybersecurity leadership are vision, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. Dr. Purser elaborates on the importance of having a clear vision, especially in an emerging role like hers at Veritas. She shares her experience obtaining the Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP) certification, highlighting the necessity of adaptability in acquiring new skills and staying ahead of the rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape.
Dr. Purser stresses the significance of soft influencing skills, adaptability in communication styles based on the audience, and the ability to read the room. She emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence when asking for resources or driving change, recognizing the discomfort associated with these demands.
Listen to the podcast here: https://engineeringleadership.podbean.com/e/joye-purser/
