Guest Blog - Jim Tiller - Global Chief Information Security Officer
I live in North Carolina with my wife of 28 years and my daughter and son are grown, but still nearby. Something a lot of people don’t know about me is I’m passionate about horses. I’ve owned a few and ride extensively. There’s a lot you can learn from a horse and few things are more exhilarating than running full gallop across a field; except maybe when the horse sees a snake - hold on tight!
Probably an obvious statement, but I’m also passionate about cybersecurity. My first entry into security was in 1994 when I worked extensively in securing networks and systems. Very quickly I began to test their limits, becoming a penetration tester as a full-time career. As time passed, my skills expanded to include risk and compliance, standards and frameworks, threat and vulnerability management and started consulting organizations around the world.
What started as being an individual contributor, evolved to leading small teams, then large groups, and eventually organizations and business units all focused on security consulting and advisory services. But throughout the years I stayed close to cybersecurity, constantly learning, innovating, and collaborating.
When the opportunity to join Harvey Nash Group surfaced, I was immediately impressed with Bev and her vision for the Group and cybersecurity. It’s a rare opportunity to join and work for a great company and CEO, but even more so when it’s perfect timing and a perfect fit. For me, as the CISO I get to contribute to our cybersecurity posture and strategy and collaborate with leaders across the company to support innovation and transformation. Equally, as the leader of the vCISO practice I get to collaborate with so many of you in helping our customers realize their security vision.
Harvey Nash Group is the leader in connecting customers with talent and one of the most significant challenges facing organizations today is gaining access to quality cybersecurity skills. Moreover, companies around the world struggle to find, attract, retain, and even afford cybersecurity professionals. Adding to the complexity, keeping resources fully engaged, challenged, and up to date on skills can be a costly proposition and virtually impossible for small to mid-sized companies; some of which facing significant cybersecurity pressures for the first time.
The vCISO practice is designed to help our clients address today’s cybersecurity challenges in an efficient and pragmatic way. Helping to connect companies with the talent they need but doing so in a model that is balanced with their business and cybersecurity needs.
Very soon you’ll hear more about the vCISO practice and our cybersecurity strategy, and my plan is to get out there and spend time with you in the UK, across Europe, and of course here in the States. I hope to see you soon, but until then, keep safe and well.
Jim