Beyond Glass Ceilings: Redefining Security with Diversity

As we celebrate International Women's Day, I find myself reflecting on my journey- from serving in high-risk operational environments to my current role as Business Development Consultant at Surevine.

From the field to the boardroom

I still remember my first week leading an intelligence operation. As I walked into the briefing room, a senior colleague asked if I was there to take notes. When I explained I was leading the operation, his surprise was barely concealed. That moment—one of many throughout my career—reinforced what women in male-dominated fields have long understood: our competence is often questioned before it's acknowledged.

Today, while women represent approximately 25% of the global cybersecurity workforce—up from just 11% in 2013—we still have significant ground to cover. This progress, though encouraging, masks the reality that women remain dramatically underrepresented in leadership positions, comprising less than 15% of senior roles in the industry.

Diversity as a strategic advantage

The profile of those working within national security and technology roles has evolved dramatically over the last few decades. In almost twenty years of managing multi-agency teams within leading UK and international organisations, I've seen how increasingly inclusive teams deliver more innovative and comprehensive solutions to demanding security challenges. And I have yet to see someone with better time management skills than a parent of young children!

At Surevine, this commitment to diversity isn't just a corporate value – it's a strategic advantage. As we build secure collaboration solutions for the world's most security-conscious organisations, our success depends on bringing together different viewpoints and approaches. This diversity helps us anticipate challenges and develop more robust solutions for our clients.

Navigating uncharted waters

My own path has been anything but conventional. From conducting field operations and managing intelligence projects to my current role in cybersecurity, I've often found myself navigating traditionally male-dominated environments.

While I have experienced some challenging behaviour due to my gender, particularly in the early stages of my career, this only strengthened my resolve to create positive change. The recognition I received as a Cheshire Woman of the Year nominee spoke to changing attitudes about the importance of women in these roles.

What helped me persevere? Three key elements:

• Finding allies in colleagues who recognise value in different perspectives
• Maintaining confidence in my unique skills and viewpoint, even when they weren’t immediately appreciated
• Building networks of support both within and outside my organisation

 Advice for the next generation

The challenges we face in cybersecurity are increasingly interconnected, requiring not just technical expertise but a wide variety of experiences and insights. My message to the next generation of women considering careers in technology and security is clear: your unique perspective is not just welcome – it's essential.

My advice for those entering these fields:

• Cultivate both technical and soft skills – the combination is particularly powerful
• Seek mentors who challenge you to grow beyond your comfort zone
• Don’t try to fit the existing mould – your different perspective is your greatest asset
• Prepare to be underestimated, and use it to your advantage
• Help other women rise as you advance in your career

 Building the future together

This International Women's Day, I'm proud to be part of an organisation that recognises the fundamental value of diversity in strengthening our collective security. But the responsibility doesn’t rest solely with individuals—it’s on organisations to actively foster inclusive cultures, implement mentorship programs, and ensure diverse talent isn’t just hired but empowered to lead.

As we celebrate today, let's recommit to fostering environments where everyone can contribute their unique strengths to our most fundamental mission – protecting people and communities in an increasingly connected world.