Meet Malisa Lengyel, Co-Founder and Operations Manager of Simply SecOps. With a background that spans teaching, union leadership and artistry, Malisa’s journey into cyber security is a testament to curiosity, adaptability and lifelong learning. Inspired by her husband’s passion for the industry, Malisa could see herself working in business management, and is now pursuing a career in digital forensics. In this interview, Malisa shares her unique path, the skills she brings to cyber and her advice for those considering a career in an evolving industry. Let’s learn more about Malisa!
What was your career/industry prior to transitioning to cyber?
Prior to transitioning into cyber I was a High School teacher in the public-school sector. After that I moved into a role working for the Teachers Union as an Organiser and Women’s Officer. I’m also an artist specialising in printmaking.
Please describe your current role in cyber.
Currently, I am the co-founder and co-owner of Simply SecOps. My role within the business is the Operations Manager which involves business administration, payroll services, business development & graphic design including brand development.
What inspired you to make the change?
My husband Sean has been in the industry for 10+ years, and in 2022 we decided to make Sean’s dream to run his own cyber security business a reality. I was inspired by his passion and commitment to the industry and could see myself working in the business management side of Simply SecOps.
As the business grew, I became more and more curious as to the technical nature of the work. I have always had a keen interest in forensic investigations, which lead to some conversations with Sean about digital forensics.
Around that time is when I decided to start studying so that I could eventually do more of the technical work, eventually specialising in digital forensics.
Were there any resources you found useful when considering a career shift?
I think in many ways I was fortunate to have my husband’s experience in the industry to help guide my decision. I also found the incredible networking events offered in Canberra to be very helpful. I’m an avid reader, so I also did a lot of research into the industry.
How did you make the change? Were you able to shift industry with your existing skills?
The change came with much consideration, deliberation, and collaboration. It was important for me to understand the process for starting and running a business. I needed to be able to strategise so that I could put in place the right measures to ensure an easy transition from being an employee to being self-emloyed. I also had confidence that my experience & skills as a classroom teacher and organiser would support my ambition & dedication to run our own cyber security business.
Have you undertaken any addition study? If so, what did you study and how do you manage your time and life responsibilities to achieve your goal?
I am currently studying to become a Cyber Security Analyst with an end goal of working in Digital Forensics.
It can be hard sometimes balancing my roles & responsibilities in our business with my studies however, I find the most useful thing I can do is plan my weeks. I take time at the beginning of each week to schedule time for study, and unless something incredibly important comes up, I stick to my plan. Of course, on occasion my weeks are an absolute disaster and things don’t go to plan, however having a plan in place is the key, as it keeps me focused and on track.
What skills and personal attributes do you think someone needs to transition into a career in cyber security?
I think a commitment to learn and keep learning is crucial. Cyber security is an ever-evolving landscape which means you always need your finger on the pulse. Having a sense of curiosity, being organised, critical thinking, methodical, thorough, attention to detail, and dedication in my opinion are the kinds of attributes that are needed in the industry.
Do you have any advice for people considering a career in cyber security?
If you’re thinking about a career in cyber security, I would highly recommend participating in some of the amazing networking events offered in Canberra. All you have to do is look at the opportunities offered at the Canberra Cyber Hub to see how many supports there are in the industry if you’re considering a career in cyber.
How do you see your future looking like in a career in cyber?
I see my future career in cyber being a complex and ever-changing one. I’m enthusiastic about my study and am eager to start implementing my technical skills in our business. Eventually, I’d like to see my skills as a teacher merge with my experience in cyber to hopefully create an opportunity to teach and mentor in this space.
