Who Are You and What Do You Do?
I’m Jennifer Cox, a cyber security expert who’s had the opportunity to work in almost every angle of the field—whether it’s as a practitioner, in implementation, offering advice, consultancy, or even in sales.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats, but my favourite role by far is serving as the Director for WiCyS UK+I because I’m particularly passionate about mentoring, improving DEI, and building connections within the Irish cyber security network.
What’s Something People Might Not Know About You?
Most people don’t know that my background was actually in theatre and psychology! I used to do stage management, had some plays produced on stage, and when I was 18, I was even offered a job at a radio station. However, I ended up taking a position in a retail store instead, which sent my life in a completely different direction. I do believe, however, that I would’ve ended up in cyber security anyway because, even when I’ve tried to avoid it, I’ve always found my way back. This is clearly where I belong!
If You Could Host a Dinner Party With Any Three People (Real or Fictional, Dead or Alive), Who Would They Be and Why?
Jim Carrey, because he’s incredibly insightful. Some might say he’s a bit barmy, but I think that just makes him more real. Michelle Obama would be another guest—I’ve listened to a few podcasts with her, and she’s just so cool and easy to listen to. She didn’t always come from a privileged position, but nothing was ever out of her reach, which is a mentality I really admire. And finally, Brené Brown, who is an American professor and social worker. I remember watching her speak and just resonating so much with her. She has this way about her that makes you feel like you can do anything, and her insights are applicable to all stages of life.
They’re all really “thinky” people, so I think we’d have some fascinating conversations.
Talk Me Through Your Career to Date.
My career started in an admin role at a tech company. I was always handy with computers, so I quickly learned the answers to technical questions and eventually moved into the tech support team. From there, I ended up running the team and became the IT coordinator. Over 11 years, I transformed from a non-techy to a techy, and if anything technical needed to be done, it usually ended up with me.
I wanted to study cyber security, but the company I was with didn’t have the budget, so I trusted my gut and took the leap on my own. I became Tenable’s first employee in Ireland, working in front-line support. My mindset was that I’d work hard and get promoted fast to make up for lost time, especially since I didn’t have a degree. Over eight years, I got promoted six times, moved across to the Security Engineering team, and eventually became a Security Engineering manager working with teams across the world.
I loved learning about different cultures and how cyber security practices differed by region. It took 19 years to get where I am, but looking back, my studies in theatre and psychology have given me some of the most valuable skills I never knew I’d need.
How Have You Seen the Industry Evolve? What Trends Do You Think Will Shape Its Future?
When I started, there wasn’t much AI. We were still using dial-up internet, and everything was manual for end users—patching or identifying vulnerabilities was all done by hand, and teams were small. Most companies didn’t have a dedicated cyber security team; they just had an IT team. Now, companies have global teams with specialised skills and a dedicated cyber security budget.
People might assume AI’s risks are all about attacks, but there are so many benefits too. AI can bring efficiency and speed, helping to identify where protection is needed most, and allowing humans to focus on areas like social engineering, where we’re still irreplaceable.
What Has Been the Most Rewarding Moment of Your Career So Far and Why?
Going into leadership has been the most rewarding. I was terrified at first—it took me about six months to get over the fear. But I love bringing people into teams, understanding their goals, and helping them move toward them. Watching people achieve their dreams is incredibly satisfying. I’ve brought people into teams who didn’t have cyber security experience but had the right attitude, and it’s amazing to watch them soar. As a leader, if you don’t care about your team’s success, you’re in the wrong role. For me, if my team is succeeding, then so am I.
What Skills Do You Believe Are Essential For Success in Cyber Security Today?
Communication is key. People often think it’s all about certifications, which are important, but you can teach someone the technical skills. You can’t teach communication or how to be a good person. If you can’t communicate the importance of your role and your function, then you’re in the wrong place. About 90% of the risks out there, stem from a lack of cyber education and rarely about the technology failing. Everyone has a responsibility to protect themselves and their organisation.
Another skill you need is advocating for yourself. In salary negotiations, always ask for more than you think you’ll get. During my first annual review, a colleague asked me what I was planning to request for a salary raise. I was going to ask for a bump from €22,000 to €24,000, but he told me to ask for €29,000[je1] . I didn’t think I’d get that, but what was the worst that could happen? I ended up getting €26,000, and it felt like all my birthdays came at once! It helped me realise my worth and that I have more control over what happens to me than I thought - a game changer.
Did You Have Any Role Models Who Influenced Your Career?
There were so many, and most of them probably don’t even know it. The guy who hired me at Tenable, Greg Cain, took a chance on me. I showed him that he was right to do so, and now I do the same for others.
A peer of mine, Ciara Campbell taught me a lot about empathy, even with people I didn’t realise needed it. She coached me in understanding different personality and learning styles, which opened my mind hugely.
Finally, Kate O’Donnell showed me that you can always find time to do what you love. I wanted to work with women in tech but wasn’t sure how I’d manage with commuting and kids. She said, “If you love it, you’ll find the time.” I used to think role models had to be hand-holders, but actually, they can just be someone who says something in passing that sticks with you.
Are There Any Younger Individuals Who Particularly Inspire You?
My niece, who’s 15. There’s a lot of talk about Gen Z not wanting to work, but she taught me about setting boundaries - something that she did naturally and with ease. I’m 45, and I still struggle. She taught me that it’s okay to draw boundaries on your time and energy, and it helped me understand the younger generations I manage too.
Looking Back, What Would You Tell Your Younger Self at the Beginning of Your Career?
To stop caring about what anyone else thinks. When you hit your 40s as a woman, you become invisible. While some hate that, I loved it. It reaffirmed that people only cared about me for my abilities. People don’t actually care as much as you think they do, and all the time I spent worrying was a waste.
Do You Have a Favourite Quote or Motto That You Live By?
“They have to sh*t and eat like the rest of us.” It’s a bit crude, but it’s a reminder that no one is above anyone else. I used to be intimidated by C-suite executives, but I realised they’re just human like the rest of us. It all went away then. Now, whenever I’m spooked by opportunities or people, I remind myself of that. We’re all dealing with the same fears!
