The Present and Future of Cybersecurity Culture | An Infosecurity Europe 2024 Conversation with Aston Martin's CISO Robin Smith | On Location Coverage with Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli

Guest: Robin Smith, CISO of Aston Martin [@astonmartin]

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-s-78148a133/

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Hosts: 

Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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Episode Notes

The latest episode of "On Location With Marco and Sean" features an in-depth discussion with Robin Smith, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Aston Martin. Recorded live in the media room at Infosecurity Europe 2024 in London, this episode explores the essential role of culture in cybersecurity. Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli guide the conversation, touching on everything related to the complexities of organizational security culture.

The Icebreaker

The conversation kicks off with some light-hearted banter about yogurt and its cultural significance, setting a relaxed tone before diving into the serious business of cybersecurity. Sean and Marco's playful exchange effectively breaks the ice, before Sean introduces Robin Smith, emphasizing how this conversation is the final one in their Infosecurity Europe coverage. Robin reciprocates with a warm thank you, before sharing insights on Aston Martin’s cybersecurity culture.

Life at Aston Martin

Robin elaborates on his role at Aston Martin, revealing that he considers himself the "luckiest man in cyber." He explains how a commitment to high-quality IT initially existed at Aston Martin but not a fully developed cybersecurity culture. Over the past three years, his mission has been to build that culture, aligning it with Aston Martin’s values and brand prestige.

Building a Cybersecurity Culture

Robin describes how he introduced a comprehensive security program that aligns with Aston Martin’s renowned design and engineering standards. He discusses the importance of integrating cybersecurity as a full-spectrum approach to business improvement, not just a technological add-on.

Lessons Learned

The conversation shifts to some of the challenges and failures encountered along the way. Robin recounts an ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful attempt to engage the board with an open-source intelligence report on their personal information. Though the exercise did not go as planned, it provided invaluable lessons on cultural sensitivity and resource allocation.

The Vision for the Future

Robin and Sean discuss the forward-thinking mindset necessary to navigate both immediate and long-term cybersecurity challenges. Robin emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that combines visionary planning with effective tactical response. He highlights Aston Martin's ambition for full automation and AI-driven security measures.

Impact on Customers and Community

Marco Ciappelli raises the question of how this robust security culture affects Aston Martin's customers. Robin assures that high-value customers expect the best, including top-notch security. He underscores the importance of securing the entire value chain, from suppliers to dealership networks.

Community and Collaboration

Sean explores the role of community among CISOs. Robin shares his positive experiences with the automotive CISO community, emphasizing the value of honest and sometimes brutal feedback. This collaborative environment helps him and his peers continually improve their security programs.

Wrapping Up

As the conversation winds down, both hosts thank Robin for his insights. They reflect on the passion and dedication evident in the cybersecurity community throughout the event. Sean invites Robin for another discussion on cyber futurism, hinting at more intriguing conversations to come.

Marco and Sean close the episode by thanking their audience and expressing their excitement for future events. They hope to see everyone again at next year's Infosecurity Europe, promising more engaging content and enlightening discussions.

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Resources

Learn more about InfoSecurity Europe 2024: https://itspm.ag/iseu24reg

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