Netskope’s CIO EMEA, Ilona Simpson, has been making waves in the cybersecurity industry, not only for her valuable knowledge and insight but also for her commitment to diversity and banishing the boy’s club mentality. In a recent interview with The Cyber Mindfulness Corner, Simpson discussed her rise to the top, the importance of authenticity, the power of community, and the need to challenge cybersecurity myths.
Simpson’s journey to the top has been a remarkable one. Born and raised in the slums of the Soviet Union, she emigrated to Germany at a young age, facing the challenge of building a life in a foreign country without knowing the language. However, Simpson’s desire to connect, be part of something, and succeed propelled her forward. She obtained a degree in psychology and continued her education with a master’s degree. As she climbed the ranks in corporate companies, Simpson realized that she was being pulled away from her passion for technology. That’s why she joined Netskope, wanting to be where the magic is happening and to have a broader influence on multiple organizations.
Authenticity has been a key factor in Simpson’s successful career. As someone who stands out in the tech industry, she emphasizes the importance of respecting and mirroring others in order to be heard and understood. Simpson also believes in the power of education and mentoring. She has been heavily involved with start-ups, providing mentorship and even investing in their success. For Simpson, reaching out to others and seeking mentorship has been instrumental in her own journey.
Regarding the issue of women in tech, Simpson has a love/hate relationship with the topic. While she acknowledges the importance of discussing and addressing gender diversity in the industry, she also wants to shift the focus to empowering women and encouraging them to be proactive in their careers. Simpson believes that women need to be intentional about picking their bosses and ensuring they have the right support system to help them grow.
Community is another key aspect of Simpson’s philosophy. She recently joined the board of the Forte Group, an advocacy and education non-profit organization for women in cybersecurity. Simpson’s goal is to amplify the voices of women in the industry and create more opportunities for them to step into the spotlight. She has also created a WhatsApp group for female CIOs, providing a supportive network for each other.
Simpson is passionate about myth-busting in cybersecurity. She encourages women to move away from the traditional focus on STEM and embrace their diverse backgrounds and skill sets. Simpson herself has a psychology background, proving that there is more than one path to success in the industry. She believes that curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, and a drive to make an impact are essential qualities for anyone looking to thrive in cybersecurity.
While some organizations have implemented quotas and tick-box boardroom approaches to promote gender diversity, Simpson urges caution. While quotas can offer opportunities for women to rise and shine, they can also perpetuate the wrong belief that women are less capable. Simpson advises organizations to focus on picking the best person for the job, regardless of gender, and to prioritize mentorship and sponsorship as a means of support.
Despite progress, Simpson acknowledges that a boy’s club attitude still exists in the industry, but she also points out the existence of a girl’s club. By creating inclusive networks and communities, Simpson aims to break down barriers and create a more diverse and equal cybersecurity landscape.
In conclusion, Ilona Simpson’s journey to the top of the cybersecurity industry serves as an inspiration to many. Her commitment to authenticity, community, and challenging stereotypes has made her a leading figure in the industry. By sharing her insights and experiences, Simpson hopes to empower women and promote diversity in cybersecurity.