Daria Meyer
“If you’re passionate about something, go for it! Don’t try to be perfect. Just start. Take one step at a time and learn along the way.”
Daria Meyer is a cybersecurity luminary with over 20 years of experience leading security initiatives in diverse industries including service providers, life science, fintech and more. She’s held senior leadership roles at IBM, Novartis, Panalpina and Swisscard, successfully building modern CISO functions with the required skills, governance, and technologies, as well as establishing relationships with businesses and boards to support business objectives and strategies.
Daria is a staunch advocate for gender diversity in cybersecurity and believes women can offer invaluable, unique perspectives to the field and beyond. She actively engages in initiatives like Women in Cyber, Executive Women’s Forum, Information Security Forum and more.
What is your biggest strength as a leader?
My energy and passion. I love to inspire the people around me and take my team on a journey with me. I care about those I work with and lead with empathy, authenticity, and integrity. That’s my leadership brand.
How has being a woman shaped your experience in this industry?
I have built up security functions in various industries throughout my career. What I noticed is that different perspectives bring value, and I know there are many leaders who appreciate and see the differences that women bring to the workplace.
How can we attract more women to the cybersecurity industry?
Many women believe cybersecurity equals technology and very techy stuff. We need to dispel this myth. It is not only about technology and coding. There are many elements linked with processes, governance and people in this job, which are essential. It is about communication, presentation, building relationships, and partnerships with businesses. It is important to raise awareness about this reality.
What makes you proud to be a part of the cybersecurity industry?
Our work strengthens the good side of the belt against the dark side of the virtual world. We combat this dark side by spreading knowledge and awareness about security to every person. We are making the whole world more secure through people, process, and technology. We’re doing good for society, and that makes me proud of the legacy I’m leaving.
