Kjersti Stathopoulou
“We need visible role models so people can see themselves in our industry. You can’t be what you can’t see.”
A cybersecurity maverick, Kjersti didn’t expect to be a Partner in Cybersecurity 20 years ago. She started as a developer before dipping her toes in enterprise IT when she became more immersed in cybersecurity, and the rest is history.
She’s always loved problem-solving, and searching for larger problems to solve has led to expansion in her role. She also enjoys helping others succeed and believes that security and humanity are foundational to shaping a safe and positive digital future.
What is one skill, interest or talent of yours that makes you GREAT at your job?
Someone once said I can strike up a conversation with a rock and am always two steps ahead. I’m very quick to see different outcomes of “if—what—when” and make a decision.
What advice would you give a woman who wants to pursue a cyber career but doesn’t think they are qualified?
Curiosity and willpower triumph over current knowledge every time. Cybersecurity is not rocket science, and there are so many different career paths that you can pursue as you learn. We all started from zero. Those of us already in cyber just worked here longer.
What is your biggest strength as a leader?
I like people, and I want them to succeed. Being a leader is about the team, not just me. I’ll be there through the good and the bad.
What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself?
I take breaks every day to breathe and connect with myself. “Hi, Kjersti. How are you really doing?” If the answer is “you are very stressed,” I’ll do breathing exercises to calm down and then make a game plan for solving the issues at hand.
