Daniella Pittis, recently appointed Chief Information and Security Officer and mother of identical twins Annie and Lily aged 3, talks about the importance of information security and how it is a customer service role within FCTG.
“Rather than trying to join the Boys’ Club, I thought about bringing a different set of qualities and skills to the table – bringing some different thinking into the mix – and this has given me the confidence to lead bravely and on my own terms”
In a digital age, information is everywhere and so easily accessible. Daniella Pittis is tasked with ensuring FCTG and its suppliers and partners are appropriately protecting FCTG's customer and corporate information and that we are addressing and managing new information security risks as they emerge.
Daniella is also aware that a key component of her new role is around communication and awareness with as many people within FCTG as possible.
“Our people are our first line of defence when it comes to protection of our customer's personal information and they can be our strongest advocate for the data protection and security culture we are building here at FCTG.”
Daniella’s appointment highlights positive movement for FCTG, Womenwise and the IT industry, for many reasons but in particular it is Daniella’s unique approach to what has traditionally been a highly male dominated professional area; an approach that is going to help shift mindsets in an ever evolving sector.
“My biggest challenge has been the obvious one of being the only female in a big crowd of blokes, particularly in the early stages of my career. So, what I have done is to use this to my advantage because rather than trying to join the Boys’ Club, I thought about bringing a different set of qualities and skills to the table – bringing some different thinking into the mix – and this has given me the confidence to lead bravely and on my own terms”, Daniella stated.
Across the globe it is heartening that the number of women in IT is growing and at all levels but it still needs work. FCTG is optimistic with talented women like Daniella at the helm, the world of Information and Security is going to receive a new perspective through a female lens.
