IronGate's Director of Business Development Describes the Opportunities that Drive Her Innovative Approach to Cyber Security Solutions

As Director of Business Development, Hillary Parkins builds and maintains relationships with cybersecurity industry stakeholders including cyber insurance claims teams, brokers, and breach coaches. By collaborating cross-functionally with IronGate’s internal teams, she contributes to solutions to evolving cyber challenges while maintaining excellent service to clients.

Q: What motivated you to pursue a career in cyber security business development, and what aspects of the role do you find most fulfilling?

A: Witnessing the increasing prevalence of cyber-attacks motivated me to enter the industry. I was drawn to its dynamic and constantly evolving nature, as well as the opportunity to play a role in helping organizations prevent and mitigate cyber threats.

What I find most rewarding in this role is building partnerships with all of the different companies operating within the cyber insurance channel. The industry’s tight-knit community fosters collaboration by leveraging longstanding relationships and diverse expertise.

Q: Adaptability is important in the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape. How do you stay agile and adjust your strategies in response to market shifts or emerging trends?

A: I actively seek out industry insights by attending insurance conferences, engaging with thought leaders, and closely monitoring emerging cyber threats and regulatory changes. Staying up to date on new technologies, threat actors, and current events is crucial.

By continuously assessing market dynamics and leveraging data-driven insights, IronGate can be flexible and adapt strategies that allow us to remain competitive while meeting our clients’ ever-changing needs.

Q: What advice would you give to women aspiring to leadership roles in cybersecurity, based on your own experiences?

A: Speak up! Embrace your unique perspective and contributions. Don’t be afraid to assert yourself – own the knowledge that you’ve worked to achieve. Trust in your abilities and purposefully pursue opportunities for growth and advancement.

I would also emphasize the importance of seeking out mentors and allies within the industry who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career path. Utilize conferences and networking events to expand your network.

Q: What excites you the most about the future of cyber security and how do you envision yourself contributing to its evolution?

A: There is so much potential for innovation and collaboration in this industry. I’m excited about the opportunities for leveraging emerging technologies to enhance incident response capabilities and help organizations proactively defend against cyber threats.

Witnessing the increasing presence of women in the industry has been so encouraging. I’m committed to advocating for even more diversity and inclusion initiatives that empower women to join and excel in the cybersecurity sector.

Learn more about IronGate’s mission and vision:

Hillary Parkins builds and maintains relationships with cybersecurity industry stakeholders including cyber insurance claims teams, brokers, and breach coaches. She contributes to solutions to evolving cyber challenges while maintaining excellent quality of service to clients.