Are you interested in the world of cyber security and technology but assume a technical background is the only way in? Think again! There are multiple roles within cyber security and tech that don’t involve being technical. These roles can also transition into technical roles due to their transferable skills and on-the job-learning (if that’s what you’re interested in going fully into!). Let’s dive into one of the roles within the non-technical side of cyber security and tech – Operations!
Lauren Thompson
Head of Operations at InfoSec People
About to graduate from the Open University with a Business Management degree, Lauren moved into the cyber security industry 6 years ago when she started working at InfoSec People. Lauren’s interest in tech (particularly space tech!) outside of work meant she instantly felt that the industry got her ticking, so she undertook a CISMP qualification to underpin her knowledge. Her career as Head of Operations could be cross-industry, but Lauren explains why she’s found her home in cybersecurity.
Operations
As I reflect on my career journey, it’s a series of unexpected turns and serendipitous encounters that have led me to where I am today. It is far removed from my initial aspirations of wanting to be a Town Planner when I was growing up, which was very rock and roll. I had a journey through the retail sector (never look down on people selling sausage rolls… I’ve never worked so hard in my life!). From administration apprenticeships to employment coaching and recruitment compliance, each step has been a building block, laying the foundation for my current role as the Head of Operations at InfoSec People, the cybersecurity and technology recruitment company.
While I may not be the one wielding the technical tools or deciphering complex codes, roles like mine are no less crucial in the grand scheme of cyber and tech industry. InfoSec People are a supplier to the cybersecurity industry rather than a cyber provider ourselves, but it all weaves part of the same web and Operations roles are critical in all small businesses particularly those such as cyber start-ups and scale-ups.
Six years ago I joined InfoSec People, and it’s been an exhilarating ride – small businesses always are! Whether recruitment, cybersecurity, or something completely different… “That’s not my job” can’t be in one’s vocabulary in Operations. Part of the job is often to be the ‘doing behind the thinking’ of the owner/director so finding one that you work well with and can bounce off is critical, in my opinion. I like the analogy of small businesses being like a ship; the owner is the captain and plans the route, and as Operations you’re in charge of keeping the engines running… in fact, you’re in charge of sourcing and fitting new engine parts mid-route as well!
At the heart of my responsibilities lies designing and implementing the intricate web of systems and processes that keep our operations running smoothly. From the meticulous upkeep of our CRM system to data visualisation and reporting, I ensure that we’re armed with the insights needed to navigate the landscape of cybersecurity recruitment. Constantly on the lookout for opportunities to enhance efficiency and optimise performance, I look after the Company’s systems, tools, and processes, seeking out innovations that propel us forward.
As the liaison between InfoSec People and our network of suppliers, I cultivate relationships that are not just transactional but rooted in mutual trust and collaboration. Negotiating contracts, procuring new suppliers, and overseeing things like office space and equipment, I strive to create an environment where every resource is maximised, and every penny is well spent. I also manage human resources; from onboarding new recruits to managing employee relations and spearheading cultural initiatives, I wear many hats! With an open-door policy and a commitment to fostering inclusivity and well-being, I strive to nurture a workplace where every individual thrives.
Other duties include internal hiring (recruiting recruiters is a never-ending challenge), compliance and regulation, bookkeeping, payroll, and contractor management – making sure each facet of our business is curated to uphold the highest standards of excellence and integrity, all along ensuring our values of “Be the Best You Can Be”, “Do the Right Thing” and “Add Value” are knitted into our company DNA.
As I found myself in the cybersecurity industry, I armed myself with a CISMP qualification and fueled by a passion for continuous learning, I immersed myself in the intricacies of cybersecurity, picking up a wealth of knowledge from the osmosis of being around the industry for years.
Beyond the confines of my role lies a vibrant ecosystem of connections and innovation. From industry events like CyNam to the daily interactions with colleagues and peers, InfoSec People has bestowed upon me not just a career but a community—a network of amazing people with amazing ideas, bound by a shared mission and a shared passion.
My role as Head of Operations is not just about keeping pace but setting the pace, embracing change, fostering innovation, and forging a path forward that is as bold as it is resilient. The cyber industry (in fact, any industry!) wouldn’t work without those small business operations staff members squirrelling away. Part of the challenge of the role is bringing the back office to the forefront; an aspect that I have really enjoyed.
In the cybersecurity industry, every staff member, no matter how technical, plays a vital role.
InfoSec People is a boutique cyber security and IT recruitment consultancy, built by genuine experts. We were founded with one goal in mind: to inspire people to find the careers that inspire them. With the success of companies fundamentally driven by the quality of their people, acquiring and retaining talent has never been more important. We believe that recruitment, executed effectively, elevates and enables your business to prosper.
We also understand that cyber and information security recruitment can genuinely change people’s lives, that’s why we take the duty of care to those we represent very seriously. All our actions are underpinned by our core values:
- Always do the right thing
- Be the best we can be
- Add value
We work with businesses in the cyber/tech arena, from start-ups and scale-ups to FTSE100 and central Government, many of whom are always looking for great people.
Call us directly on 01242 507100 to discuss opportunities or email info@infosecpeople.co.uk.