Russ Kirby: A Natural Born CISO
Russ Kirby has been CISO at Ping Identity since the summer of 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous roles as CISO at Creditsafe and ForgeRock, as well as his time as global head and director of enterprise services information security directorate at Hewlett Packard.
Asked why he chose cybersecurity as a profession, Kirby answers, “It just feels natural for me.” He explains that his Type One personality, which is fundamentally principled and improvement-driven, makes him well-suited to the field of cybersecurity.
The Journey to Cybersecurity
Kirby has always worked with technology, and his fascination with it began at a young age. He recalls being attracted to the potential of technology to improve humanity, and this interest ultimately led him to cybersecurity.
The move to cybersecurity wasn't planned, but rather came about through necessity. Kirby took on the role of CISO at a company that needed someone to fill the position, and he found that he enjoyed it and was good at it.
Leadership and Passion
Kirby believes that passion is essential for success in cybersecurity. He looks for enthusiasm in the people he hires, and he seeks to maintain that passion and enjoyment in his team members.
As a leader, Kirby emphasizes the importance of being proactive and driving forward. He believes that cybersecurity is a blend of reactive and proactive measures, and that the CISO's role is to be as proactive as possible.
Building a Security Team
Kirby looks for team members who are knowledgeable about technology and cybersecurity, but also enthusiastic about the field. He believes that a genuine interest in cybersecurity is essential for success, and that certifications and qualifications are secondary to passion.
He also emphasizes the importance of listening and being open to challenges to one's own beliefs. Kirby believes that every company and team member is different, and that a successful CISO must be able to take a wide view and understand the needs of their team.
Burnout and Relief
Kirby has never succumbed to burnout, and he attributes this to his passion for the job. He believes that enjoying the work and having a support network are essential for preventing burnout.
As a CISO, Kirby seeks to provide relief from burnout to his team members. He looks for ways to maintain their passion and enjoyment in cybersecurity, and he emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and spending time with loved ones.
What Keeps a CISO Up at Night
Kirby admits that the rapid adoption of AI is what keeps him up at night. He believes that AI is a continually evolving technology that poses significant challenges for cybersecurity, and that it is essential to educate oneself and plan for both prevention and response to potential threats.
Despite the challenges posed by AI, Kirby does not consider it a radically new concern. He believes that it is part of the repeating cycle of new technologies, and that the key to success is to stay proactive and adaptable.
Source: SecurityWeek