Trending Women in Cyber Security

The Top 10 Trending Women in Cyber Security to Hire

What is Cyber Security?

Cybersecurity is the multifaceted practice dedicated to the safeguarding of online systems, networks, and data from cyber threats and unauthorised access. Encompassing various strategies and methods, it aims to maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information systems. This critical field covers several domains, including network, application, information, and operational security, each addressing specific vulnerabilities and threats. A successful cybersecurity stance integrates advanced technologies, robust policies, and coordinated processes, forming a resilient defence against the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Source: National Cyber Security Centre

Why is Cyber Security Important?

Cybersecurity is paramount in our rapidly evolving digital age. With a single security breach potentially exposing the personal data of millions, the financial and reputational impacts on businesses are immense. As society becomes increasingly technology-dependent, vulnerabilities rise, especially with the proliferation of cloud services, smartphones, and IoT devices. Missteps can lead to public postings of sensitive data on social media, risking identity theft. Governments globally are taking note, with regulations like GDPR mandating stricter data protection and breach notifications. This urgency has propelled entities like NIST to create frameworks, ensuring that organisations can safeguard against these looming threats.

Source: Southern New Hampshire University

Benefits of Hiring a Female Cyber Security Speaker

Hiring a female cybersecurity speaker can bring a plethora of benefits to the industry and its audience. With only 16.8% of cybersecurity roles held by women and a mere 2.1% of global cybersecurity companies led by female CEOs, it’s crucial to amplify the voices of women leading in this sector. Highlighting accomplished women like Prof. Lisa Short and Danni Brooke can inspire and demonstrate potential career trajectories for aspiring female professionals. Female speakers in cybersecurity can challenge the often misguided perception of the field as purely technical and male-dominated. They can offer a fresh perspective, encouraging diversity of thought, skills, and experiences, which is essential for innovation. They also become a beacon for female students, professionals, and future leaders, showing that they too can excel in the cybersecurity domain.

Source: Zippia & Substack

Our Top 10 Trending Women in Cyber Security:

  1. Sarah Armstrong-Smith
  2. Keren Elazari
  3. Charlie McMurdie
  4. Chloe Colliver
  5. Lisa Forte
  6. Dr Victoria Baines
  7. Jessica Barker
  8. Baroness Joanna Shields
  9. Theresa Payton
  10. Confidence Staveley

Sarah Armstrong-Smith

Sarah Armstrong-Smith, a formidable presence in cybersecurity, stands out as a keynote speaker whose insights stem from an illustrious career, including her role as Chief Security Advisor for Microsoft’s Europe sector. With deep expertise in cybersecurity and crisis management, she not only made waves in the industry but also earned a spot on ComputerWeekly’s longlist of the UK’s Most Influential Tech Leaders 2023. Microsoft’s recognition of her as a ‘Distinguished Speaker’ underscores her calibre. Sarah’s journey from Business Continuity Analyst at Thames Water to pivotal roles at Ernst & Young and the London Stock Exchange Group highlights her versatility and profound knowledge. Her advocacy for women in STEM, coupled with her best-selling book, showcases her commitment to education and empowerment within technological advancements. As a finalist for Cyber Citizen of the Year 2023, her influence is undeniable, making her an invaluable asset to any event seeking a passionate expert on data, privacy, and digital transformation strategies.

Official Testimonial:

“Having Sarah as part of the first UK Cyber Week was an absolute pleasure. Her session was insightful and left a lasting impact on the audience, it was great to have her there!” – Hannah, Roar B2B

Keren Elazari

Keren Elazari is an illustrious Israeli cyber security expert with a rich history that started from her introduction to the internet at age 11. Inspired by the allure of white-hat hacking, Keren’s trajectory led her to serve as a Cyber Security Officer in the Israel Defense Forces for a decade. A Certified Information Systems Security Professional and Senior Researcher at Tel Aviv University’s Balvatnik Interdisciplinary Cyber Research Center, her vast experience is unmatched. Keren’s commitment to enhancing cyber security awareness led her to establish Leading Cyber Ladies and co-found BSidesTLV. Her TEDx talk, ‘Hackers: The Internet’s Immune System’, was acclaimed as one of TED’s Most Powerful Ideas in 2014. As a beacon in Israel’s cyber security sphere, Keren Elazari remains a top-choice keynote speaker on ethical hacking and cyber security.

Official Testimonial:

“Keren was great. She was a highlight of our meeting and I received great feedback about her presentation. She was lovely to speak with as well!” – ARGO Group

Charlie McMurdie

Charlie McMurdie, renowned for her unparalleled expertise in cyber security, commands respect as a keynote speaker. With over three decades in law enforcement and cybercrime, notably as the former Head of the Police National Cyber Crime Unit for the Metropolitan Police, she brings invaluable frontline insights. Charlie’s prestigious 31-year tenure at New Scotland Yard underpins her authority in combating cyber threats, while her strategic roles with PwC UK and Achilleon Consultancy highlight her multifaceted proficiency. From securing significant funding for the Police Central e-Crime Unit to her proactive engagement in covert operations and international cybercrime initiatives, Charlie’s contributions are profound. Inducted into the Infosec Hall of Fame and an Honorary Fellow at Warwick University’s Cyber Security Centre, her accolades attest to her stature. Now, as a sought-after speaker, she elucidates cyber threats with compelling real-world scenarios, emphasising proactive defence measures and fostering informed vigilance. Don’t miss the enriching experience of delving into cyber security’s critical nuances with Charlie McMurdie.

Official Testimonial:

“Charlie is a well-respected leader in the cyber security community not least for the significant contribution she has made over the 31 years of service to Law Enforcement and in helping to secure our National, and International Critical Infrastructure.” – Mike, Executive Director, Global Security Solutions

Chloe Colliver

Chloe Colliver stands as a beacon in the realm of cyber security. With her roots tracing back to internships at renowned institutions like The Wiener Library and the United Nations, Chloe’s rise in the digital world has been meteoric. Formerly at the helm of Digital Policy and Strategy at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, she tirelessly combated hate speech, extremism, and terrorist content. Now, as the Principal of Ofcom, the UK’s communications overseer, she shapes the future of media regulation. Renowned for her publications and honoured with the Mellon Fellowship to Yale, Chloe is a prised keynote speaker, illuminating the intricate web of disinformation, tech regulation, and online safety. Don’t let the chance to learn from this cyber security maven pass you by.

Official Speaking Topics:

  • Technology Regulation
  • Digital Policy
  • Disinformation

Lisa Forte

Lisa Forte, a trailblazer in the realm of cyber security, embodies expertise and innovation as a keynote speaker. Renowned for her profound understanding of cyber threats and defence strategies, Lisa co-founded Red Goat Cyber Security, leveraging her extensive background to educate and safeguard diverse organisations. Her insightful presentations delve deep into pressing issues like insider threats and social engineering, underpinned by her experiences from the South West Regional Cyber Crime Unit to the co-founding of Cyber Volunteers 19 during the pandemic. As the No.1 on the Top 100 Women in Tech, Lisa’s contributions transcend technical acumen, inspiring progress in diversity and advocacy for a ‘tech for good’ ethos. Her dynamic approach makes her an invaluable asset at any event, illuminating the path to cyber resilience.

Official Testimonial:

“I had the pleasure of working with Lisa when delivering cyber awareness training to a group of school parents. Lisa was professional, knowledgeable and exceptionally engaging. Her presentation was expertly pitched, as were her answers to the numerous questions. Thank you for all your support and advice, Lisa.” – Arman, Detective Chief Superintendent

Dr Victoria Baines

Dr. Victoria Baines is a luminary in the realm of cyber security. With a foundation in international law enforcement, she has evolved into a respected futurist, shedding light on the forthcoming trends in technology and cyber security. Serving as the IT Livery Company Professor of IT for Gresham College and a Visiting Fellow of Bournemouth University, Victoria is at the forefront of academic and practical thought leadership in the domain. Notably, her expertise has graced platforms such as the BBC and CNN. Her journey, from an Intelligence Analyst to playing pivotal roles at Facebook and Europol, is a testament to her unmatched prowess in cyber-diplomacy and online safety. As a female cyber security keynote speaker, Victoria Baines is a beacon, guiding audiences through the intricacies of the digital age.

Jessica Barker

Jessica Barker, with her groundbreaking human-centric approach to cyber security, stands out as a transformative figure in the digital safety field. Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Cygenta, she’s not just an executive but an influencer who comprehends the intricacies of cyber threats and human behaviours. Her educational background, featuring Social and Political Sciences and a PhD in Civic Design, underscores her unique perspective. From her early role at the Northwest Development Agency to leadership positions like Chair of ClubCISO, her journey is a testament to relentless evolution. Now a sought-after keynote speaker, Jessica enlightens global audiences, emphasising a more conscious, human-focused defence against cyber risks. Her recognition as one of the UK’s Top 20 Most Influential Women in Cyber Security is well-deserved, celebrating her commitment to safeguarding digital ecosystems worldwide.

Official Testimonial:

“Event went really well and Jessica is a star, a true pleasure working with her! The average rating of the speakers during the event was high, 3.82 overall and Jessica got 4.68 which is the highest score of the day” – IDG AB

Baroness Joanna Shields

Baroness Joanna Shields stands out as a trailblazing female cyber security keynote speaker, drawing from an unparalleled career that includes serving as the UK’s first Minister for Internet Safety & Security. Her collaboration with notable figures like David Cameron highlights her commitment to global cyber safety. Joanna isn’t just a respected voice; she’s a proactive leader dedicated to combating cybercrime and enhancing internet safety for individuals from all demographics. As the current CEO of BenevolentAI, her influence extends into AI, showcasing her versatility and forward-thinking approach. With a history of leadership roles at global tech giants, Joanna brings a wealth of expertise and real-world insight to her speaking engagements, making her an invaluable asset at industry events. Her accolades, including top rankings in WIRED 100 and Computer Weekly, further cement her status as a must-hear speaker in cyber security.

Official Speaking Topics:

  • Internet Safety
  • The Future of Artificial Intelligence
  • Protecting Younger Generations Online

Theresa Payton

Theresa Payton, with her trailblazing legacy as the first female White House Chief Information Officer, stands out as a female cybersecurity keynote speaker of immense calibre. Her journey, from sharpening her skills at Barnett Banks to exhibiting profound leadership as Senior Vice President at institutions like Wachovia and Bank of America, underscores her deep-rooted expertise. Co-founding Dark Cubed and leading Fortalice Solutions LLC, Theresa’s hands-on experience in managing real-time cybersecurity threats is unparalleled. Now, as a Member of the Cyber Defenders Council, she’s not just a leader but an educator, committed to enlightening professionals on critical issues like fraud, AI, and big data. For an inspiring, knowledgeable cybersecurity speaker, Theresa Payton is the epitome of excellence.

Official Speaking Topics:

  • Insider Threat
  • Leading-Edge Technology
  • Big Data Analytics

Confidence Stanley

Confidence Staveley stands tall as Africa’s premier female cyber security maestro, inspiring a new generation of women in technology. Celebrated as the Founder and Executive Director of CyberSafe, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive digital access across the continent. Her academic credentials, including a BSc in Information Technology and an MSc in Information Technology Management, have equipped her for key roles in renowned establishments like UIC Innovations Africa and DIGISS LLC. As an esteemed member of the Forbes Technology Council, Confidence disseminates her cyber wisdom among fellow tech luminaries. Honoured with accolades like the Cyber Security Women of the Year 2022 awards, Confidence, ‘The Relatable Cyber Security Queen’, is a captivating keynote speaker whose experience and insights resonate on global stages.

Official Testimonial:

“Our thanks all go to you! It was an honour to have you as part of our program. You not only lived up to your reputation but to your name as well.” – Andy, CEO, Virtual Inc

Hire a Trending Female Cyber Security Speaker Today!

To hire one of the female cyber security speakers featured in this post, simply contact us today by filling in our online contact form or by calling one of our dedicated booking agents on 0203 0070 318.

Social Share

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin