Governing Body Spotlight

Andrea Licciardi is a leader in the field of cybersecurity for a multinational engineering firm, with a deep passion for technological innovation and information security. His career has been driven by curiosity and the determination to tackle and solve the most complex challenges in the digital world. 

Outside of the office, he enjoys exploring new technologies and dedicating himself to a variety of hobbies, ranging from artificial intelligence to the history of technology.

While Andrea’s day-to-day life is enveloped in the virtual world of cybersecurity, his spirit ignites in the kitchen, where culinary art becomes his tangible form of expression. Andrea finds a surprising similarity between the precision required in programming and that needed in measuring ingredients for the perfect dish. Thus, each evening, Andrea swaps the keyboard for the spatula, exploring recipes from around the world with the same passion and curiosity he applies in his professional field.

Learn more about the Italy CISO community here.
 

Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.

My journey to the position I hold today has been uniquely driven by curiosity and a desire to stay at the forefront of cybersecurity. My career in information security began with a strong foundational interest and self-motivation to excel in this dynamic field. 

Over time, I have acquired multiple certifications in cybersecurity, a testament to my dedication to continuous learning and professional development. This pursuit of knowledge and expertise, fueled by my innate curiosity and determination, has naturally led me to leadership roles, where I can leverage these skills to make a significant impact on the industry and contribute to advancing global information security.
 

What is one of your guiding leadership principles?

One of my core leadership principles is "empowerment and accountability." I am deeply committed to empowering teams by equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to make independent decisions. This approach does more than just accelerate innovation; it fosters a work environment that is deeply engaging and empowering for everyone involved. 

By advocating for a culture of shared responsibility, I ensure that each team member feels valued and integral to our collective success. The importance of sharing, in this context, extends beyond simple information exchange. It's about creating a foundation of mutual trust and respect, where ideas and responsibilities are freely exchanged, and collaboration is encouraged. 

This sharing culture enhances our problem-solving capabilities, as diverse perspectives are brought together to tackle challenges. It also promotes a sense of ownership and pride in our work, as each individual's contributions are recognized and celebrated. In essence, fostering an environment where sharing is integral not only enhances our operational efficiency but also solidifies our team's cohesion, making us more resilient and adaptive in the face of cybersecurity's ever-evolving landscape.
 

What is the greatest challenge CISOs face today, and how are you addressing it?

The greatest challenge I face in my current role is striking the right balance between innovation and security. In a world where cyber threats rapidly evolve, ensuring the company remains protected, while also staying at the forefront of technological advancements requires a dynamic and proactive strategy. We address this challenge by adopting a holistic approach to security, one that incorporates the latest in artificial intelligence technologies to predict and neutralize threats before they become critical. This holistic strategy involves not just the deployment of cutting-edge AI tools, but also a comprehensive understanding of our digital ecosystem. 

We continuously monitor our systems for vulnerabilities, adapting our defenses in real time to counter new threats as they emerge. This approach is underpinned by a strong foundation in cybersecurity best practices, ensuring that our team is always equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to safeguard our digital assets. Moreover, we prioritize collaboration and information sharing within the cybersecurity community. 

By engaging with industry peers, participating in forums, and contributing to collective knowledge pools, we stay informed about the latest threat vectors and defense mechanisms. This collaborative spirit helps us to not only fortify our own defenses but also contribute to the broader cybersecurity ecosystem. Ultimately, balancing innovation with security means embracing the rapid pace of technological change, while maintaining an unwavering commitment to protect our digital frontier. It's a complex, ongoing challenge that requires vigilance, adaptability, and a forward-thinking mindset.
 

What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CISO?

The key to success for someone stepping into a C-level role in cybersecurity is to foster a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. In the fast-evolving landscape of cyber threats, staying informed and ahead of emerging technologies and tactics is crucial. 

Embrace the challenges as opportunities to innovate and strengthen defenses. Building strong, collaborative teams and nurturing a culture of transparency and accountability will also play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of cybersecurity leadership effectively.
 

How do you measure success as a leader?

I measure success as a leader through the growth and resilience of the team, the innovation and effectiveness of our cybersecurity strategies, and the impact of our work on protecting and advancing the company's interests. Seeing a team develop, take on new challenges confidently, and contribute innovative solutions is a clear indicator of effective leadership. 

Additionally, success is reflected in our ability to stay ahead of cybersecurity threats, minimizing their impact on our operations and maintaining trust with our stakeholders. Ultimately, the true measure of success is not just in achieving short-term goals but in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, adaptability, and shared purpose within the team and the broader organization.
 

What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?

Being a member of the Evanta community offers invaluable benefits, especially in the fast-paced field of cybersecurity. It provides a unique platform for peer-to-peer networking, allowing members to share insights, strategies, and best practices with fellow leaders facing similar challenges. This exchange of knowledge is crucial for staying ahead of emerging threats and trends in the cybersecurity landscape. 

Additionally, the community offers access to cutting-edge research, thought leadership, and case studies that can inform and enhance your cybersecurity strategies. It fosters a collaborative environment where members can learn from each other's successes and setbacks, accelerating collective progress. 

Membership also opens the door to exclusive conferences and events, facilitating deeper connections with peers and leading experts in the field. These interactions can spark innovative solutions and partnerships, further bolstering your organization's cybersecurity posture. In essence, the value of being part of the Evanta community lies in the power of collaboration and shared knowledge. It's about being part of a collective effort to push the boundaries of what's possible in cybersecurity, thereby strengthening your leadership and the security resilience of your organization.
 

Evanta Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.
 

by CISOs, for CISOs
 

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