Working in Cyber Security: “It is never too early to start networking”
What is it like to work in cyber security? We ask some of the members of the team in Symantec. Today, we hear from Eleanor O’Neill, Senior IT Director (M&A and Privacy).
How long have you been in this role?
This role for four years, and with Symantec 15 years in total, in a number of different roles.
How did you come to work in the field of cyber security?
Prior to Symantec, I had worked in a number of different companies: Digital Equipment Corporation, Visio (acquired by Microsoft) and Marrakech (an eCommerce start-up). I was looking for a new opportunity in 2003, in the middle of the technology and Internet downturn. At that point the security business, post 9/11, was going from strength to strength. The role of Senior Director, IT, EMEA, came up in Symantec and both the role and the company were very attractive. I, fortunately, was hired into the role.
What advice would you give to someone who wants a job like yours?
· Get experience, all experience is good (different companies, roles, countries etc)
· Take opportunities, put your hand up, and be willing to go out of your comfort zone
· Be open to learning opportunities
· It is never too early to start networking
Is the course you studied at university relevant to the job you have now?
I would have said no in the past, but more recently I have realized how much it plays into how I approach challenges. My undergraduate degree was a Bachelor’s of Engineering (Industrial from the National University of Ireland in Galway). The strength of an engineering degree is the discipline and the problem-solving approach it instills in you. In a lot of cases my roles are about critical thinking and problem solving (getting more complex and ambiguous as your career progresses). I subsequently did a Diploma in Systems Analysis, which added some of the computing skills. I see my daughter studying engineering now in college and see the opportunities it is opening up for her. It’s a great basic degree, no matter where you venture in the future.
“The ability to connect with people at all levels is important”
What do you think are three qualities someone who wants to work in a role like yours needs to have?
1. Personnel resilience/persistence to be able to roll with the ups and downs of work and indeed life, and to have sticking power
2. Strong communication and networking skills. In terms of working in large-scale, or small-scale, organizations, the ability to connect with people at all levels is important
3. Integrity: Lead by example
4. Being optimistic — the glass is half full
Any other tips, advice or anecdotes you would like to add?
Welcome opportunities and take measured risks. It is important early in your career to get as much experience and exposure as you can. Embrace life-long learning and be adaptive and flexible.
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