As the curtain falls on 2023, it’s time to peel back the layers of what can only be described as a chaotic comedy of errors. Buckle up, as I share the unfiltered, unscripted tale of my journey through the past 365 days—a year that felt like a rollercoaster I certainly didn’t sign up for but survived nonetheless.
Personal Achievements
Home Barista Adventures
A seemingly simple espresso machine became the protagonist of my daily routine as I embarked on the delightful journey of mastering milk-based espresso drinks. Frothing milk became an art form, and I’ve proudly graduated from a simple latte to attempting the elusive world of latte art. While some mornings produced abstract masterpieces (at least in my eyes), the real triumph lay in the joy of crafting my own morning ritual. So far I can only make crooked, low quality hearts in my caffeinated beverages, but hoping to level up my skills in 2024.
Juggling Pets and Traveling for Work
Picture this: four furry companions—two dogs, two cats—each with their unique personalities, and me, their somewhat frazzled butler. I’m happy to report that all four of my furry companions are healthy and well. They patiently suffered through me being away on travel for work, while (my cats) enduring many nights at home alone and my dogs spending countless nights at the dog-hotel. Juggling the needs of my beloved four-legged friends while hopping from one city to another became an art in itself.
Drumming Debut
In the symphony of my life, 2023 introduced a new instrument—drums. I purchased my first electronic drum set and started online drum lessons, banging away a determination that rivaled a rock concert. The joy of learning a new musical language, one beat at a time, added a rhythmic soundtrack to my otherwise unpredictable days.
Family Bonds and Quality Time
Amidst the whirlwind of work and personal pursuits, 2023 allowed me the privilege of spending quality time with the pillars of my support system—my parents, brother, and sister-in-law. Whether it was cozy dinners, laughter-filled car rides, or simply sharing stories, these moments provided a grounding force in the midst of life’s rollercoaster. This year was the first time since I was 15 years old where I spent 30 consecutive days with my parents when they visited me from Bangladesh. We were fortunate enough to have my brother and his wife join us for a week in the middle of those 30 days.
Professional Achievements
This year as I embarked on a journey of a Field CISO, the adventures ahead exceeded all my expectations.
Hotel Chronicles – 124 Nights on the Road
My journey as the Field CISO unfolded against the backdrop of countless hotel rooms, each becoming a temporary haven as I crisscrossed the map. From bustling metropolises to serene landscapes, every night spent on the road was a testament to the dynamic nature of my role. The hotel became my second home, and the journey itself, an odyssey of growth and discovery.
Up-In-The-Air for 180,000+ Miles
The role of a Field CISO knows no borders. Flying across North America and Europe, I clocked over 180,000 miles in pursuit of strengthening cybersecurity strategies and fostering client relationships. As the miles accumulated, so did the wealth of experiences, insights, partnerships, and friendships garnered from diverse corners of the globe.
Dinner Diplomacy – Hosting 60+ Client Dinners
Breaking bread together has a unique way of fostering connections. In the role of a Field CISO, I hosted over 60 client dinners, forging bonds over shared meals. These gatherings were not just about cybersecurity discussions; they were opportunities to build lasting partnerships and friendships.
Socializing with a Purpose – 20+ Client Social Events
From rooftop gatherings to industry conferences, I orchestrated over 20 client social events. These occasions were more than just networking opportunities; they were platforms for fostering camaraderie, exchanging ideas, and creating an environment where collaboration thrived. Each event was a symphony of cybersecurity discussions, laughter, and shared goals.
The Global Chessboard – Navigating Challenges and Triumphs
In the chessboard of cybersecurity, every move matters. As the Field CISO, I navigated challenges with strategic finesse, ensuring that our cybersecurity solutions were not only effective but also tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Each triumph was a testament to the collaborative efforts of the NetSPI team and our commitment to excellence.
As the final curtain falls on the professional achievements of 2023, I extend my gratitude to the incredible team at NetSPI and the clients who made this global journey so rewarding. The stage is set for new adventures in 2024, and I am eager to continue the pursuit of excellence in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.
Welcoming 2024
As I stand on the brink of 2024, the upcoming year unfolds as a canvas for both personal and professional growth. On the personal front, my journey in perfecting the art of crafting milk-based espresso drinks, delving into the intricate world of latte art, and juggling the joys and challenges of life with two dogs and two cats remains a focal point. Strengthening family bonds, particularly with my parents, brother, and sister-in-law, remains a cherished priority.
Professionally, as the Field CISO of NetSPI, 2024 promises new heights. With a commitment to elevating proactive security, fostering client relationships, and embracing unforeseen opportunities, I am ready to navigate the unknowns and seize every chance for growth and innovation in the evolving proactive security landscape. As the curtain rises on this new chapter, I eagerly anticipate the unwritten script and the multitude of experiences that will shape my journey in the coming year.