Marco Figueroa – Senior Manager, Cyber Security, Risk and Compliance at Australian Institute of Company Directors, highlights his transition from technology to cyber security.

He emphasises the critical role of email as the primary threat vector for ransomware, stressing that a single click can open the gates to a cyber attack. Marco underscores the necessity for a transformed cyber security workforce profile, moving beyond technical expertise to a deeper understanding of attacker methodologies and thought processes.

He advocates for a round-the-clock, automated cyber security approach to combat evolving threats effectively, acknowledging the scarcity of cyber security talent and the need to use automation to bolster defences.

Organisations need clear incident response plans that acknowledge cyber attacks as inevitable and establish well-defined roles and responsibilities. Marco emphasises the need for open communication while adhering to established company protocols to avoid confusion during external communication, especially when dealing with media inquiries regarding cyber security incidents.

Marco’s insights shed light on the evolving cyber security landscape and the crucial strategies required to safeguard organisations from cyber threats.

 

Key Takeaways:

  • The prevalent and significant cyber threat lies in email-based attacks, especially ransomware, where a single click can potentially breach an organisation’s security, emphasising the need for robust cyber security measures.
  • The shortage of adequate cyber talent in Australia remains a critical challenge, necessitating a shift in cyber security workforce profiles towards a better understanding of attacker strategies.
  • Using automation to strengthen defences is crucial, given the constant and worldwide presence of cyber threats.
Contributors
Byron Connolly Head of Programs & Value Engagement at ADAPT
Byron is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer.​ Prior to joining ADAPT, he was the... More

Byron is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer.​

Prior to joining ADAPT, he was the editor-in-chief at CIO Australia and associate editor at CSO Australia. He also created and led the well-known CIO50 awards program in Australia and The CIO Show podcast.​

Byron creates valuable insights for our community of senior technology and business professionals that help them reach their organisational and professional goals. He has a passion for uncovering stories about the careers and personal philosophies of Australia’s top technology and digital executives.​

When he is not working, Byron enjoys hot yoga, swimming, running and spending time with his family. He completed the North Face 100km ultra marathon in the NSW Blue Mountains in 2012 and 2013.​

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Marco Figueroa Senior Manager, Cyber Security, Risk and Compliance at Australian Institute of Company Directors
A recognised industry practitioner with extensive senior leadership, cyber security, technology risk and engineering experience in government, ASX fast-moving consumer goods with... More

A recognised industry practitioner with extensive senior leadership, cyber security, technology risk and engineering experience in government, ASX fast-moving consumer goods with international operations in Asia Pacific region, private and educational organisations managing cyber security and technology risk. As a senior executive I operate with an agile and high performing mindset set to achieving strategic and tactical outcomes by inspiring, empowering and supporting people whilst encouraging collaboration and information sharing.

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Skills Modernisation Management