Ep 50: Safeguarding Operations: The Role of Cybersecurity in IT and OT Environments

In this episode, host Aaron Crow is joined by Peter Jackson, a seasoned expert from New Zealand with a robust background in industrial automation and cybersecurity. Together, they unravel the intricacies of balancing security with reliable operations and explore the evolving landscape of OT cybersecurity in critical infrastructure. Listen in as they discuss everything from the importance of safe operations and risk management to the nuances of vulnerability management in diverse industrial environments.

Whether you're an OT professional or an IT practitioner, this episode is packed with insights that cater to both ends of the spectrum, all shared with a passion for protecting the future of our interconnected systems.

Key Moments:

05:22 Bridging IT and OT Silos

14:53 Business Risk Beyond Cyber Concerns

17:46 "OT Security Risks in Business"

25:46 Simplifying Complex OT Management

30:10 Cybersecurity Misunderstandings in Safety Systems

36:58 Prioritizing Systems and Security Integration

39:51 Improving Business Trust Tolerance Journey

44:42 Hesitancy and Future of OT Cloud

52:07 Operational Resilience and Risk Reduction

55:26 "Assessing System Security Strategies"

58:59 Network Security Maturity Strategies

01:05:00 "Improving IT Resilience and Preparedness"

01:13:43 "Towards Improved System Security Awareness"

01:15:03 Continuous Security Improvement Basics

01:20:00 Safety First: A Unique Culture

About the guest :

Peter Jackson is a seasoned OT/ICS cybersecurity expert with deep roots in ICS programming, SIS engineering, and alarm management. He’s built high-performing OT security teams, led global projects across NZ, ANZ, APAC, and supported major acquisitions with his cyber expertise.

A certified SANS ICS515 instructor and global speaker, Peter also leads the NZ ICS Cyber Technical Network, driving collaboration and innovation in industrial cybersecurity.

Feel free to follow Peter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterjnz/
If you’re interested in the NZ ICS/OT cyber community: https://icscyber.org.nz

If you’re interested in the work that he does with the SGS team: https://www.sgs.com/en/services/operational-technology-cyber-safety or email [email protected]

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