What does a background in theatre and psychology have to do with a successful career in cybersecurity? According to Jennifer Cox — a global speaker, mentor, and EMEA Solutions Consulting Manager at Rippling — everything. In this conversation, Jennifer shares how her unconventional path helped shape a unique and powerful approach to cybersecurity, leadership, and advocacy for diversity in tech. Her story is proof that shifting careers isn’t just possible — it can be transformational.
🎧 Listen to her podcast Lighting It Up with Jennifer Cox: LINK
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: Who is Jennifer Cox? How would you describe yourself?
Jennifer Cox:
Normally when I answer questions like this I refer to my typical bio that I send out when I public speak which is:
Jennifer Cox is a powerhouse in the tech industry, combining nearly 20 years of experience with a vibrant enthusiasm for cybersecurity and HR tech. As the EMEA Solutions Consulting Manager at Rippling, she leads operations across EMEA. Jennifer’s dedication to diversity and mentorship is evident through her role as the Irish Director of WiCyS (Women in CyberSecurity) and advisory positions with organisations like IGC, Cuimsiu, Neurodiversity International and more. Her leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including the Real Cyber Awards’ Individual Impact Award.
A sought-after public speaker and podcast creator, Jennifer captivates audiences with her insights and energy. She has mentored over 150 individuals from Fortune 500 companies, shaping future tech leaders. Based in Wexford, Ireland, Jennifer balances her thriving career with family life, enjoying adventures with her husband and four sons. Known for her dynamic presence, she continues to inspire with her unwavering dedication and zest for life.
However, as a woman that never worked with other women until about 7 years ago I feel like I’m not doing anything exceptional but everyone like me, that is somewhat different to the norm is pushing the goal line closer for those that follow.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: You’ve held various roles, from technical support to management and now strategic leadership. What key lessons have you learned throughout this journey, and what advice would you offer someone starting their career in cybersecurity?
Jennifer Cox:
Throughout my journey from technical roles to strategic leadership in cybersecurity, I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the power of mentorship. Each role taught me to embrace change and to view challenges as opportunities for growth. In cybersecurity, staying ahead of evolving threats requires a commitment to ongoing education and curiosity. Building a diverse network has been invaluable, offering fresh perspectives and support.
My advice to someone starting their career in cybersecurity is to remain curious and open to learning. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek mentorship from experienced professionals. Embrace diversity in teams, as it fosters innovation and resilience. Also, develop strong communication skills as they’re crucial in translating technical findings into actionable insights for various stakeholders. Remember that your career path is unique, so be patient and proactive in seeking opportunities that align with your passions and strengths.
Most importantly know that there is always another way. If you meet blockers and challenges that is not the end of the line. It’s always possible to get to where you want to be via another route. You just have to be creative about it.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: From theatre and psychology to cybersecurity – how did your unconventional background shape your perspective and approach in this field?
Jennifer Cox:
My unconventional background in theatre and psychology has profoundly shaped my approach to cybersecurity, offering unique insights and skills that have been invaluable in the field. I believe any skill learned outside of those expected for the field brings additional value and depth to what you can do. Nothing learned is useless. Theatre taught me the importance of storytelling and effective communication, which are crucial when conveying complex security concepts to diverse audiences. It also instilled in me a sense of creativity and adaptability, allowing me to approach problems from different angles and develop innovative solutions.
Psychology, on the other hand, provided me with a deep understanding of human behavior, which is essential in cybersecurity, where the human element often plays a critical role. It has helped me anticipate potential security threats and understand the motivations behind cyberattacks, as well as foster a culture of security awareness within organisations.
Together, these disciplines have enabled me to approach various roles I’ve taken, not just as a technical challenge, but as a holistic endeavor that involves understanding people, their behaviors, and how they interact with technology. This perspective has been instrumental in developing strategies that are both effective and user-friendly, ultimately enhancing the security posture of the organisations I work with.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: Cybersecurity is often perceived as a highly technical field. How can individuals with non-technical backgrounds contribute to this industry, and what alternative career paths are available within cybersecurity?
Jennifer Cox:
Cybersecurity is indeed a technical field, but it thrives on diverse perspectives and skills, making it accessible to individuals from non-technical backgrounds. These individuals can contribute significantly by leveraging their unique experiences and strengths in areas such as communication, psychology, law, and business.
For example, strong communication skills are vital for roles in cybersecurity awareness and training, where the goal is to educate and engage employees to create a security-conscious culture. Those with a background in psychology can offer insights into social engineering tactics and help design systems that account for human behavior. Legal expertise is crucial for understanding compliance, data privacy laws, and handling incidents involving regulatory requirements. Business and management skills are essential for strategic roles, such as risk management and policy development, where understanding the broader organisational impact of cybersecurity decisions is key.
Alternative career paths within cybersecurity include roles like security awareness specialist, compliance manager, incident response coordinator, and cybersecurity policy analyst. These positions benefit greatly from non-technical skills and can be just as impactful as technical roles. By bringing diverse talents and perspectives into the industry, we can build more resilient and comprehensive security strategies that address both technical and human factors.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: You’ve spoken at numerous industry events.What are some common misconceptions about working in cybersecurity, and how does the reality of the job differ from these perceptions?
Jennifer Cox:
Having spoken at numerous industry events, I’ve encountered several common misconceptions about working in cybersecurity. One prevalent myth is that cybersecurity is solely about hacking and technical prowess. While technical skills are important, cybersecurity is a multidisciplinary field that also requires critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication abilities. It’s about understanding and mitigating risks, which involves strategic planning and collaboration across various departments.
Another misconception is that cybersecurity is a solitary job. In reality, it is highly collaborative. Professionals frequently work in teams, engaging with colleagues across IT, legal, and executive departments to develop comprehensive security strategies. Communication and teamwork are essential to effectively manage and respond to security threats.
There’s also the belief that cybersecurity is purely reactive, focused only on responding to incidents. However, much of the work is proactive, involving the anticipation of threats, risk assessments, and the implementation of measures to prevent breaches before they occur. In fact I’ve worked almost exclusively in the proactive and preventative side.
Lastly, some think cybersecurity is a static field, but it’s constantly evolving. Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary to keep up with new technologies and emerging threats. The reality is dynamic and challenging, offering a variety of roles that go beyond the technical aspects, making it an exciting and rewarding career choice.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: Could you describe a typical day or week in cybersecurity? What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your work?
Jennifer Cox:
I have had a variety of roles in cybersecurity from preventative, reactive, investigation, mitigation, solution selling pre and post sales, support and leadership. In every role within cybersecurity, a typical day or week is dynamic and multifaceted, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of the field. Each day often begins with reviewing security updates and threat intelligence to stay informed about the latest vulnerabilities and potential threats. I might participate in strategy meetings to discuss ongoing projects or new initiatives, ensuring that security measures align with organisational goals.
A significant portion of my time wold be dedicated to collaboration, working with cross-functional teams working on everything from implementing security protocols, conducting training sessions to raise awareness, and engaging in risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities. These depend on the role I had at the time. I also spend time mentoring individuals, helping them navigate their career paths in tech and cybersecurity.
The most challenging aspect of any role I’ve had in cybersecurity has been staying ahead of constantly emerging threats in a landscape that changes rapidly. It requires continuous learning and adaptation, which can be demanding but also invigorating.
The most rewarding aspect is knowing that my efforts help protect not only the organisation but also the people who rely on our services. Seeing the impact of my work in fostering a secure environment and contributing to industry-wide diversity initiatives brings immense satisfaction. Additionally, empowering others through mentorship and witnessing their growth is incredibly fulfilling.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: In your experience, what are the essential skills and qualities that make a successful cybersecurity professional, beyond technical expertise?
Jennifer Cox:
Beyond technical expertise, a successful cybersecurity professional needs a blend of analytical, communication, and strategic thinking skills. Analytical skills are crucial for assessing complex problems, identifying vulnerabilities, and understanding the broader implications of security threats. The ability to think critically and solve problems creatively is key to developing robust security solutions.
Communication is another essential skill. Cybersecurity professionals must be able to convey complex information clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences, from technical teams to non-technical stakeholders and executives. This involves translating technical jargon into actionable insights and fostering collaboration across departments.
Strategic thinking is vital for anticipating future threats and planning proactive measures. This involves a deep understanding of the business landscape and aligning security strategies with organisational goals.
Additionally, qualities such as adaptability, grit, resiliance and continuous learning are important, given the rapidly evolving nature of cybersecurity. Professionals must be open to new ideas and technologies and committed to staying informed about industry developments.
Lastly, integrity and a strong ethical framework are fundamental, as cybersecurity involves protecting sensitive information and maintaining trust. These skills and qualities, combined with technical expertise, create a well-rounded cybersecurity professional capable of navigating the complexities of this critical field.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: Your podcast, “Lighting it Up with Jennifer Cox,” showcases inspiring women in technology. Can you share some key takeaways or recurring themes that have emerged from these conversations, specifically related to cybersecurity career paths?
Jennifer Cox:
On “Lighting it Up with Jennifer Cox,” I’ve had the privilege of speaking with many inspiring women and allies in technology, and several key takeaways have emerged, particularly concerning cybersecurity career paths.
One recurring theme is the diversity of pathways into cybersecurity. Many guests have highlighted that there is no single route to enter the field. Professionals come from various backgrounds, and in the case of my podcast I talk to a very diverse group of individuals because my goal was always to give transparency around their experiences working in tech fields.
Another key takeaway is the importance of mentorship and community. Many women emphasised how mentorship has played a crucial role in their career development, helping them navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Building and participating in supportive networks has been vital for career growth and fostering a sense of belonging.
We’ve also discussed the critical role of continuous learning and adaptability. The cybersecurity field is ever-evolving, and staying current with new technologies and threats is essential. Guests often stress the value of being curious and open to learning new skills.
Finally, a recurring theme is the impact of advocating for diversity and inclusion. Many women have shared how they use their platforms to encourage more representation in tech, which not only drives innovation but also creates a more welcoming environment for future generations. These conversations underscore the multifaceted and dynamic nature of cybersecurity careers.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: How has your nomination for the Women in Tech Global Awards 2025 and recognition in PCR’s Top 25 Women in Tech influenced your work and advocacy for women in technology?
Jennifer Cox:
Being nominated for or winning any award is an honor, but these accolades are not the driving force behind my work. They have, however, amplified my platform, allowing me to reach a wider audience and advocate more effectively for women in technology.
These recognitions have opened doors to new opportunities for collaboration and dialogue with industry leaders, enabling me to push forward initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in tech. They have also helped highlight the importance of creating supportive environments where women can thrive and advance in their careers.
While awards are not my motivation, they serve as a reminder of the impact and importance of advocacy work. They encourage me to continue mentoring, speaking, and creating spaces for underrepresented voices. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire more women to pursue careers in technology, fostering a community where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents. The recognition reinforces my commitment to this mission, providing more visibility to the causes I am passionate about and helping to drive meaningful change in the industry.
Klaudia&Luke Jarych: What emerging trends in cybersecurity are you most excited about, and how do you see them shaping the future of the field?
Jennifer Cox:
Several emerging trends in cybersecurity are particularly exciting, and they have the potential to significantly shape the future of the field.
One major trend is the increasing use of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technologies are revolutionising how we detect and respond to threats, allowing for faster, more accurate identification of unusual patterns and potential breaches. As AI and machine learning evolve, they will enhance our ability to predict and mitigate threats proactively, making cybersecurity more dynamic and adaptive.
The rise of quantum computing also presents both challenges and opportunities. While it poses potential risks to current encryption methods, it also offers the possibility of developing more robust cryptographic techniques that can withstand future threats.
Finally, there’s a stronger focus on privacy and data protection regulations globally. This trend is driving innovation in how organisations manage and secure personal data, leading to more transparent and user-centric security practices.
These trends are not only shaping the technical landscape but also influencing how we think about cybersecurity as a holistic, integrated effort that involves technology, policy, and human factors. It’s an exciting time to be in the field, with vast opportunities for innovation and growth.
