In this episode of Future Secured, Jason Murrell and Tom Finnigan are joined by David Gee, a renowned technology executive, author and cybersecurity board advisor, to reflect on how the role of cyber leadership has evolved from firefighting to business enablement. Drawing on his experience as CISO for HSBC Asia Pacific, Global Head of Tech and Cyber Risk at Macquarie and CIO across global markets, David shares practical lessons on navigating boardroom expectations, building cyber resilience and why focusing on the fundamentals matters more than ever today.
The discussion explores the real impact of AI and quantum computing on the cyber threat landscape, the psychology behind human error and how CISOs can move beyond fear-based messaging to influence change at the executive level. David also reflects on writing his book, A Day in the Life of a CISO, and what it taught him about the shared challenges across the industry, from burnout to boardroom dynamics.
Whether you're a cyber leader, CIO, or a founder navigating security as a business enabler, this conversation will leave you with insight into the biggest cyber challenges facing CIOs and CISOs right now.
Takeaways
- David Gee’s career spans over 25 years across global cybersecurity and technology leadership roles.
- The nature of cyber leadership has shifted from pure risk control to strategic business enablement.
- I and quantum are changing the rules; CISOs need to prepare now, not later.
- Culture and clear communication are critical, especially at the board level.
- Many breaches still come down to basic hygiene, patching, awareness, and visibility.
- CISOs must focus less on fear and more on building partnerships within the business.
- Writing his book revealed just how universal the pressures on cyber leaders really are.
- A portfolio career can be both intentional and deeply rewarding in later stages.
- There’s value in cross-pollination, applying CIO skills to CISO roles and vice versa.
Sound Bites
“You don’t need to scare the board, you need to educate them.”
“It’s not just tech, it’s people, it’s politics, it’s positioning.”
“We keep chasing the shiny tools, but basic cyber hygiene still matters most.”
“AI isn’t coming. It’s already here.”
Chapters
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction to David Gee
03:21 – David’s Career from CIO to CISO to Portfolio Advisor
06:12 – What David Learned Writing A Day in the Life of a CISO
10:45 – The Evolution of Cyber Risk and Board Communication
15:03 – Navigating the Post-COVID Acceleration of Threats
18:32 – AI, Automation and the Changing Threat Landscape
22:45 – Quantum Threats and Why Fundamentals Still Matter
26:58 – The Cyber Confidence Gap and Internal Politics
30:10 – Why Many Organisations Still Struggle with Basics
33:26 – Advice for Future Cyber Leaders and Career Transitions
36:54 – Final Reflections on Strategy, People and Purpose