Bridging the Gap: Exploring Neurodiversity in Cyber Security

Introducing: The Stott Exchange Podcast

Welcome to The Stott Exchange, an engaging podcast brought to you by Stott and May Consulting. In each episode, we invite industry leaders, experts, and experienced professionals to join us in thought-provoking conversations around technology transformation. Get ready to exchange ideas and stay ahead of the curve; The Stott Exchange is here to keep you informed and inspired.

Episode 1: Exploring Neurodiversity in Cyber Security

As awareness of Neurodiversity grows, more and more organizations are acknowledging the importance of creating neuroinclusive work environments. This shift is particularly notable in the cyber security space, where an understanding of the value and distinct strengths of neurodivergent individuals is gaining recognition. But while raising awareness is a positive step, the real challenge lies in translating that awareness into meaningful action.

So how can organizations go beyond simply acknowledging Neurodiversity and take tangible steps to foster a culture that embraces and supports it?

In our latest podcast episode, we dive deep into this topic with our guest speaker, Alan Jenkins, Managing Partner & Director at Decipher Cyber Consulting Partners. Join us as we discuss the proactive measures to recruit, retain, and invest in neurodivergent talent and gain valuable insights into bridging the gap between awareness and action within your organization, with topics including:

• Accountability and the early steps to bridge the gap in fostering a neuroinclusive organization.
• Best practices to keep front of mind in the recruitment process. 
• Adopting a long-term, holistic strategy beyond initial recruitment efforts to create an environment where neurodivergent individuals can truly thrive.
• The unique attributes of neurodiverse individuals and understanding how these traits can have a positive impact on organizational dynamics.
• Common misconceptions and expectations surrounding neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
• The valuable role neurodivergent talent plays in bridging the cyber security skills gap and the benefits of investing in this talent pool.
• The immense opportunity for organizations to invest in cyber security professionals in the early stage of their careers.

Wherever you are in your neuroinclusion journey, support is available to help you progress. Stott and May Consulting offer a comprehensive range of neuroinclusion training services to support organizations in areas ranging from audit, policy design, recruitment processes, and more. 

Find out more and start your journey towards a neuroinclusive workplace here.

About our contributors

Alan Jenkins
With over 30 years of diverse experience, including senior roles in the RAF,  IBM Security, Cybercorre, Guardian Cyber Services, and 2-Sec Consulting, Alan is a highly experienced leader in the field of security, specializing in cyber and enterprise security risk management. Currently, he serves as the CISO-in-Residence at CyLon Labs, where he supports and mentors startup and scale-up companies in the cybersecurity domain.

Holly Foxcroft
Holly is a passionate advocate for diversity and an internationally recognized speaker on the topics of neurodiversity, cyber security, and online behavior. With a pioneering role in advancing the field of neurodiversity within cyber research, Holly has consistently been acknowledged as one of the most influential women in the field of Cyber Security. Currently serving as the Head of Neurodiversity in Cyber Research and Consulting at Stott and May Consulting, she offers invaluable expertise in guiding organizations through the development of inclusive policies, delivering impactful training, and providing insightful consultancy services.