From Pen Testing to Purpose: Jane Frankland on Cyber, Burnout, & Reinvention

Life of a CISO with Dr. Eric Cole

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In this special episode of Life of a CISO, I sit down with the brilliant Jane Frankland, MBE—an internationally recognized thought leader in cybersecurity with over 28 years of experience. Jane shares her unexpected journey into the field, starting not from a tech background but from art and design. Her curiosity and drive led her to co-found one of the earliest penetration testing consultancies, long before the term "cybersecurity" became mainstream. Together, we dive into how the industry has evolved, why penetration testing has become commoditized, and why it's no longer enough to offer just technical solutions—true value now comes from insight, strategy, and resilience.

Jane also offers powerful reflections on the burnout many CISOs face today and why so many are leaving traditional roles to launch their own consultancies or step into virtual CISO models. We discuss what it really means to build a business in today’s climate, the importance of defining your unique value, and why small businesses are an underrated opportunity in the cyber space. From vendor strategy to shifting away from limiting beliefs, Jane brings a fresh, honest, and empowering perspective that challenges the status quo. Whether you're building your career or launching your own venture, this episode is full of clarity and inspiration for the next step in your cyber journey.

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