As an internet service provider, Ziply Fiber has cyber threats top of mind, all the time. One of the people keeping our network safe is our VP of Security. We asked him about his day-to-day work, how he got here and what he does when he takes himself offline.
What is your job, in a sentence or two?
I lead both physical security and cybersecurity efforts to protect our people, infrastructure and data. My job is to ensure that threats—whether digital or physical—are identified, mitigated and responded to effectively.
Can you give an example of a threat you've had to mitigate?
An example of a threat to our customers that we've mitigated is the Microsoft SharePoint vulnerability, which Microsoft announced in July. Our security team was already working to migrate services to eliminate the risk of having a public-facing server on premises. After Microsoft's announcement, we worked with the Core Network Team to shut off firewall rules and delete the DNS records.
Also, each week the security team researches trending scams that can be mitigated through user awareness training. The team then sends an email to all employees, explaining how to spot the scams and avoid being victimized. These focus on tactics used by prolific threat actors such as Scattered Spider. A recent example was a social engineering tactic of impersonating an organization's IT Help Desk to call employees and request remote access to their workstation. Users are regularly educated on smishing, malvertising, business email compromises, AI risks and novel threats such as malicious QR codes sent via mail.
How did you get into this line of work?
I started tinkering with computers at a young age and developed an interest in how they interconnect. This curiosity led me to explore networking. Over time, I transitioned into managing IT infrastructure and security. As security evolved, I saw its growing importance and began focusing more on that aspect, which eventually led to where I am today, leading both physical and cybersecurity efforts.
What does a day generally look like for you?
No two days are the same. I might be reviewing threat intel reports, working with IT on a security architecture issue, overseeing access controls for a facility, running an incident response drill or briefing executives on risk posture. It's a balance between strategic planning and responding to whatever emerges in real time.
What do you like about it/how do you feel it contributes to the company or our customers?
I like knowing that the work we do directly protects our people, our network and the trust our customers place in us. Security can feel invisible when everything's going right—and that's exactly the point. When it's done well, it enables the rest of the business to operate safely and confidently.
What's your coffee order?
Black coffee—strong and simple.
What do you like to do when you get done with work for the day?
I try to disconnect and recharge, whether that's spending time with family, getting outside, traveling or grabbing a meal at my favorite restaurant. I'm a big fan of being outdoors, especially hitting a local trail for a quick hike. I also enjoy traveling, usually to places I've never been before. I recently visited New York for the first time, which was a great experience. And when I'm in the mood for a good meal, there's a small Vietnamese place nearby that never disappoints.
If you're interested in joining our team at Ziply Fiber, click here to view our current employment opportunities.
See these blog posts for more information on how to optimize your network security and privacy and boost your online security with fiber internet.
