In my previous role, I led the design of a cybersecurity strategy for a financial institution. I began by conducting a thorough risk assessment to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities. Based on this, I implemented a multi-layered defense system, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption protocols. I also established a robust incident response plan and conducted regular security audits to ensure compliance with industry standards. The project resulted in a 30% reduction in security incidents and improved overall system resilience.

I stay updated by regularly attending industry conferences, webinars, and training sessions. I also subscribe to leading cybersecurity journals and blogs, such as those from SANS Institute and OWASP. Additionally, I participate in professional networks and forums where experts share insights and best practices. By continuously educating myself and networking with peers, I ensure that my knowledge remains current and relevant to address emerging threats.

My approach involves embedding security practices into each phase of the SDLC. In the planning phase, I collaborate with developers to identify potential security risks and define security requirements. During development, I advocate for secure coding practices and conduct code reviews to catch vulnerabilities early. In the testing phase, I implement security testing, such as penetration testing and vulnerability scanning. Finally, in the deployment and maintenance phases, I ensure that security updates and patches are applied promptly. This holistic approach ensures that security is not an afterthought but a fundamental part of the development process.

When resources are limited, I prioritize security initiatives based on risk assessment and business impact. I focus on high-risk areas that, if compromised, could have the most significant adverse effects on the organization. For example, I would prioritize securing critical infrastructure, such as databases and cloud environments, over less critical systems. I also leverage automation tools to maximize efficiency and allocate resources effectively. By prioritizing based on risk and impact, I ensure that the most critical security needs are addressed first, even with limited resources.

In a previous role, I responded to a ransomware attack that impacted our organization's critical systems. My approach involved immediately isolating the affected systems to prevent further spread and initiating the incident response plan. I coordinated with the IT team to assess the extent of the damage and worked with our cybersecurity partners to identify the ransomware variant. We restored systems from backups and applied necessary patches to prevent future attacks. Post-incident, I conducted a root cause analysis and implemented additional security measures to enhance our defenses.