Osnat Amsterdam
“Learn, evolve, and always try new things. Becoming a multidisciplinary leader is a huge strength.”
With a background in statistics and economics, Osnat Amsterdam started out crunching numbers. She then pivoted into startups, spending 18 years in many roles and helping businesses grow. Not the type to stay in one lane, she moved into IT, led teams for over a decade, and found her stride in information security. For the past five years, she’s led a powerhouse team driving innovation in cyber. Through it all, she has navigated a dynamic career while raising four kids with grace and resilience.
What is one skill, interest or talent of yours that makes you great at your job?
Exceptional time management and prioritization skills. This ability not only showcases your dedication and resilience, but also inspires others to strive for balance and success in their own lives.
What is the best piece of unconventional career advice you’ve gotten?
Learn, evolve, and always try new things. Becoming a multidisciplinary leader is a huge strength.
What is your proudest moment working in the cybersecurity industry?
Bringing more and more talented professionals into the cybersecurity industry!
When did you become interested in pursuing a career in cyber and what prompted it?
It stemmed from personal experience. After 12 years in IT, I knew my next step would be cybersecurity.
What are the top 3 things you would tell people hoping to enter the cybersecurity industry?
Find the right studies, learn the language, and go for it!
What are some misconceptions people might have about the cybersecurity industry and what can we do to change these misconceptions?
A common misconception is that you need to be very technical. It is good to know the basics, but from there it is a lot of learning on the job.
Do you feel like you’re contributing to helping keep our world secure and can you share why that matters to you?
As our world becomes increasingly digital, nothing is more important than keeping it as secure as possible.
What positive change do you think will take place as we bring the next generation into the cybersecurity industry?
The new generation, being digital natives, will bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to tackle evolving cyber threats. Their familiarity with emerging technologies. like AI, machine learning, and blockchain will enhance cybersecurity measures.
Who is your role model in the cybersecurity industry and why?
For me, it’s not about a single person. It’s about the collaboration and cooperation of many extraordinary individuals in the cybersecurity industry. The collective effort and shared experience of these professionals inspire me.
