As we celebrate our amazing team here at Altenar, we continue with our ‘Getting to Know You’ series of interviews.
We caught up with our Director of Information Security Denise Vella to discuss how she plays a vital role in the company's continued growth and how she ended up working in this industry.
How long have you been a member of the Altenar team and what made you want to join the company?
I joined Altenar five years ago. Before that, I spent 11 years in a Fintech company, but I was eager for new challenges and began exploring other opportunities. The chance to work with new technologies and the company’s commitment to growth and learning were what truly motivated me to join the team. What started as a side role quickly became a long-term commitment, and five years down the line I'm very happy to be part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking company that has grown from just over 100 to over 500 employees around the world.
What are your main roles and responsibilities here at Altenar?
My role involves managing a team of five security engineers and analysts, and developing and implementing security strategies, policies, and procedures to protect the company’s data and systems from threats, manage risks, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. As a team we work with various departments to ensure adherence to policies, maintain secure operations, and promote security awareness among employees. A significant part of my responsibilities also includes overseeing compliance with the technical standards of the various jurisdictions where we operate.
What do you think makes you good at your job/what you do?
I believe it is a combination of experience, attention to detail, and adaptability. I prioritize a practical approach that balances security with productivity. Additionally, I am committed to continuously improving our processes to keep up with the evolving threat landscape, industry standards, and regulations.
How does your department help the company reach its overall targets and goals?
By safeguarding our assets and data, we protect against potential threats that could disrupt business continuity or damage our reputation. Proactive risk management and compliance with industry standards help minimize vulnerabilities and ensure regulatory adherence, which supports the company’s strategic objectives.
What are the key skills you need to be a success in your team/department?
Key skills include a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, risk management, and understanding of regulatory standards. Technical expertise in areas such as network security, encryption, and application security are essential. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and analytical thinking are also important for identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating threats, as well as communication skills for explaining complex security concepts to non-technical stakeholders and promoting a culture of security awareness.
How do you expect your role in this industry to change and develop in the future?
As cybersecurity threats become more sophisticated, there will likely be more emphasis on using advanced technologies like AI and machine learning to identify threats and mitigate risks. My role will need to balance innovation with security, and staying compliant with more stringent global standards.
Tell us about your career prior to joining Altenar
I am an electrical engineer by profession and began my career in a global semiconductor company in Malta, but my passion in the IT field led me to follow various courses and certifications in the sector. I then joined a Fintech company, where I worked in the IT department, gaining experience in roles ranging from end user support to network engineering, and eventually moving into the field of information security.
What’s the one thing you’d love to change about your role/industry?
One thing I would love to change about information security in the industry as a whole is the level of awareness and acknowledgment of the importance of proactive information security practices rather than reacting only after experiencing an incident. Additionally, there is a shortage of skilled professionals and limited resources dedicated to the field, so increased awareness, education, and investment in security talent are required.
What did you want to do as a job/career when you were a child?
As a child, I was always playing around with screwdrivers, taking apart toys and fixing them, and later on, experimenting with computers. Looking back, it seems I was always following this path :)
Away from work do you have any hidden talents?
I wouldn’t say hidden talents, but I do enjoy staying active and exploring new places. I like traveling as it gives me the chance to experience different cultures, try new activities, and keep my mind refreshed.
What is your biggest achievement away from your work career?
My biggest achievement outside of my career is undoubtedly my two daughters. It’s very rewarding to watch them grow and be actively involved in both their academic development and extracurricular activities. It’s incredibly fulfilling to support their learning and personal growth.
