Preparing for an uncertain future

At the recent Elixirr and Venari Security event, industry leaders gathered to explore the growing impact of digital transformation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. The discussions focused on how these advancements are reshaping businesses and the evolving strategies needed to address the associated risks and opportunities. 

The event highlighted that while digital transformation brings tremendous opportunities, it also requires organisations to rethink their approach to risk management. By staying informed, testing vulnerabilities and fostering collaboration, businesses can position themselves to thrive in an increasingly uncertain world. 

Paddy McGuinness, CMG OBE, Business & Government Advisor, highlighted how AI is accelerating uncertainty for boards, pushing traditional risk management strategies beyond their limits. Drawing from his experience leading the UK’s national cybersecurity programme, he emphasised that businesses need an “uncertainty toolkit” to navigate the rapid pace of technological change. With data and AI reshaping business processes, McGuinness stressed that standard continuity plans and risk committees often fail to provide the full insight needed during disruptions, urging boards to adopt new tools to stay ahead. 

Bryan Littlefair, Founder of Cambridge Cyber Advisors, reinforced this by stressing the importance of understanding the details within security environments. He warned that even minor oversights can lead to significant risks, particularly as AI-driven cyberattacks become more prevalent. Littlefair also underscored the need for boards to actively support robust security strategies to manage these rising threats. 

Suman Ziaullah, Head of Technology Resilience at the Financial Conduct Authority, highlighted the importance of testing vulnerabilities, not just to succeed but to expose weaknesses before they become critical. His message was clear: proactive measures are essential to prevent crises. Joe Hubback, Partner and CISO at Elixirr, echoed the need for continuous learning and collaboration, pointing out that AI-driven cyberattacks are escalating, requiring businesses to challenge their existing cybersecurity strategies and remain agile. 

Joe is an accomplished company leader, board member and advisor with extensive experience in the cybersecurity. Previously, he was a Partner at McKinsey & Co, where he co-founded the cybersecurity practice and developed their first cyber maturity assessment framework. 

In 2020, Joe authored the report “Cybersecurity Technology Efficacy: Is Cybersecurity the New Market for Lemons?” which addresses the efficacy challenges in cybersecurity, focusing on economic incentives rather than technological constraints. The report offers insights and a new model to help companies achieve better cybersecurity outcomes. 

Visit Joe’s page to discover his cybersecurity expertise and connect with him today.