Why Humanizing Cybersecurity Matters

In Episode 4 of Net Impact, host Fred Menachem interviewed Bindi Davé, the Deputy CISO at DigiCert, to explore her unconventional path into cybersecurity. Initially rooted in finance, Bindi made a career-defining pivot to cybersecurity, recognizing the field’s explosive growth and importance in managing today’s business risks.

During the conversation, Bindi highlighted her experiences at the intersection of policy writing, vulnerability management, and team leadership. She emphasized that cybersecurity is not just about technical prowess—it’s about risk management and understanding how businesses operate. Her leadership experience, especially in managing a team that grew from five to seventy employees at GoDaddy, sheds light on the critical role of soft skills in cybersecurity, including empathy, empowerment, and collaboration.

A Fork in the Road: From Finance to Cybersecurity

Bindi recognized the growing demand for cybersecurity expertise and made the switch, highlighting the importance of staying adaptable in today’s fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape. Just like a financial planner guiding investments, Bindi transitioned from calculating risks in finance to safeguarding digital assets in cybersecurity.

The Cybersecurity Ecosystem: Navigating Risk Beyond Technology

Later in her career, Bindi realized cybersecurity isn’t just about technical defenses. It’s about managing business risks. Drawing from her experience in policy writing and vulnerability management, she connected technology with business operations. While the field remains male-dominated, Bindi’s journey as a minority female leader inspires hope for a more inclusive future.

The Balancing Act: Mental Health in Cybersecurity

Just as a tightrope walker maintains balance above the crowd, cybersecurity professionals must balance their mental well-being while navigating high-stress environments. Throughout her battle with overcoming burnout and mental health challenges, Bindi Davé found balance through yoga, cooking, and creative outlets. She stresses that soft skills are just as crucial as technical skills in cybersecurity leadership.

"Overcoming burnout and mental health challenges is essential; I found balance through yoga, cooking, and creative outlets."

Bindi’s story offers valuable lessons for navigating and excelling in this fast-paced field. She emphasizes that cybersecurity is not just about technical prowess—it’s about risk management and understanding how businesses operate. Her leadership experience sheds light on the critical role of soft skills in cybersecurity, including empathy, empowerment, and collaboration.

🎧 Catch up on all 11 episodes of Net Impact and join the conversation shaping the future of cybersecurity!