Diverse workforce boosts cyber efficiency

The technology industry remains skewed in favor of men over women, particularly in the cybersecurity space, where women have left in large numbers over the past few years. According to Kris Lovejoy, Global Practice Leader for Security and Resiliency at Kyndryl, diverse teams can enhance security and companies should encourage conversation in this direction.

Lovejoy notes that technology alone will not stop successful cyber criminals from attacking a company. In an interview, she discussed India’s cybersecurity preparedness, citing complexity and a significant security skills gap as major challenges.

Cybersecurity Challenges in India

India’s security situation is complex, with legacy infrastructure and unpatched systems making it vulnerable to attacks. The combination of technology complexity and the skills gap creates unique challenges for the country.

To address the skills gap, Lovejoy suggests creating a culture of openness, involving every C-level executive and not just cybersecurity personnel. Employees need regular training to identify new attacks and apply their knowledge, as staff members play a significant role in preventing cyber-attacks.

Gender Balance in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity was once a male-dominated field, but the pandemic forced many women to opt out of their roles, creating a void in the industry. However, in recent months, there has been an increase in women joining the field, and some are returning to work.

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Companies need to encourage dialogues with women and invite male colleagues to join the conversation on bringing women back to work. A gender-balanced cyber workforce can help avoid unconscious bias and build a range of solutions to complex problems.

Lovejoy emphasizes the importance of having diverse teams, as cybersecurity threats become more varied. She notes that Kyndryl employs a large number of people in India, and the company plans to increase its technology innovation and delivery in the country.

India as a Market for Kyndryl

India is an innovation hub and a very important market for Kyndryl. The company is betting big on financial services, public sector, manufacturing, and heavy industry in India in the coming months. With its significant presence in the country, Kyndryl aims to increase its spend in the near and long term.

As the cybersecurity setting continues to evolve, companies like Kyndryl are focusing on building a more diverse and efficient workforce. By encouraging conversation and creating a culture of openness, they can enhance security and stay ahead of emerging threats.

Kyndryl’s plans for India are ambitious.