On the lighter side of things, we Go Phishing with Ercan Aydin, Vice President, Middle East and North Africa at Palo Alto Networks, to discuss what makes him tick.
What would you describe as your most memorable achievement in the cybersecurity industry?
Leading Digital Transformation projects across emerging markets and enabling secure cloud technology transitions for key clients at Palo Alto Networks have been particular highlights of my career.
What first made you think of a career in cybersecurity?
The challenge of safeguarding digital infrastructure in a rapidly evolving technological landscape sparked my interest in cybersecurity early in my career. It’s also a dynamic and challenging work environment where you learn something new almost every day.
What style of management philosophy do you employ with your current position?
I believe in a collaborative, coaching-based approach to management, empowering my team to take ownership, while providing support and guidance.
What do you think is the current hot cybersecurity talking point?
Cloud security and the adoption of zero-trust architectures are key topics as more organisations shift to multi-cloud environments. At Palo Alto Networks, we emphasise the ‘never trust, always verify’ approach of zero-trust architecture, especially with the growing complexity of managing security across various platforms. Additionally, our advanced cloud security solutions provide visibility and control across multi-cloud setups, enabling swift responses to emerging threats.
How do you deal with stress and unwind outside the office?
I stay active through sports like racket games, basketball and swimming. I also enjoy reading and writing to clear my mind.
If you could go back and change one career decision, what would it be?
I would have explored a career in cybersecurity even earlier to capitalise on its dynamic growth, enabling me to accelerate my professional development and impact.
What do you currently identify as the major areas of investment in the cybersecurity industry?
Today, major investments in the cybersecurity industry are focused on cloud security, AI-driven threat detection and zero-trust frameworks. These focus areas are essential for effectively managing security hybrid work environments, enabling organisations to protect sensitive data, respond to sophisticated threats and maintain compliance.
Are there any differences in the way cybersecurity challenges need to be tackled in the different regions?
Yes, cybersecurity challenges vary significantly by region due to different regulations and threat landscapes. For example, MENA focuses heavily on critical infrastructure security, while other regions prioritise compliance.
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?
The focus has shifted significantly towards securing cloud environments and addressing remote work challenges. I expect increased automation in threat detection processes and deeper regulatory complexities in the coming year.
What advice would you offer somebody aspiring to obtain a C-level position in the security industry?
It is important to develop a strong understanding of both the business and technical aspects of cybersecurity. Build leadership skills and embrace learning opportunities to keep up with new developments and challenges in this fast-evolving field.
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