New Year, New Cyber-Security Approach?
8th January 2021
Originally serving 9 years in the Royal Navy as a medic, I’ve had roles working with Air Stations, the Royal Marines, Medical Centres, as well as instructional roles which involve teaching junior medics and First Aiders. As I got promoted, I took on a more managerial role, and over the years developed my skills and knowledge within IT systems and Assurance and Governance, specifically within a healthcare setting. Whether it be a warship, a tent, or the back of a helicopter – I have combined my knowledge of medical care with a strong security mindset. Now, as a veteran, I’m using my skill set in a more technical capacity.
I wanted to find a long-term career where my skill set would still play a vital role. Stripe OLT was recommended to me by a fellow veteran who gave the company very high praise. The fact that Stripe are continuing to expand despite being in the middle of a global pandemic, demonstrates to me that it is a team that is not only dedicated to providing the best possible service for clients, but is also committed to developing its own people. Having worked in a wide variety of challenging environments, I wanted a role in my civilian life whereby a team is clearly valued and encouraged to grow. I believe Stripe OLT embodies this value.
I am a Cyber Security Engineer in the Security Operations division – here to monitor and defend our client’s systems from malicious actors and activity.
For me, a typical day varies anywhere from monitoring and remediating alerts, helping to support the Security Operations Centre within Stripe, to potentially hacking into a client system to test their level of vulnerability. I also provide training to our clients and staff to improve their cyber security posture.
As a medic, I pride myself on being able to save lives, no matter how few.
Prior to COVID-19, a Friday night would usually have consisted of some live country music and a few drinks, or alternatively being bossed about by my 4 year old goddaughter telling me to play hide and seek or watch Scooby Doo – which she will then promptly lose interest in. COVID-19 changed the live shows into livestream shows and pub drinks into zoom quiz nights, which means more time for hide and seek and a mystery solving Great Dane…
I would love to meet the queen of country herself – Dolly Parton – as she’s one of the most influential people in the world of country music.