Fredrick Lee, CISO at Reddit, delves into embracing risk in business for innovation. Topics cover cost-effective cybersecurity strategies, Reddit's S.P.A.C.E team, and challenges in the modern tech environment. The conversation explores the importance of risk-taking, driving success, and the evolving landscape of security priorities.
Taking risks in business leads to finding opportunities others miss.
Cost-effective solutions like virtual box are driving companies towards cloud alternatives.
Reddit's 'Space' team focuses on Security, Privacy, Automation, Compliance, and Engineering.
Data security, API security, and compliance will be top priorities in 2024.
CISOs are evolving into broader roles like CIOs or CTOs, beyond cybersecurity responsibilities.
Deep dives
The Value of Risk in Business
Businesses require risk. Taking risks in business is crucial for success as it leads to finding opportunities that others may have missed. Risk allows companies to explore uncharted territory and seize competitive advantages.
The Evolution from Local Lab Environments to Cloud Computing
There has been a shift from running virtual machines in local labs to utilizing cloud computing services like VMware. The cost factor plays a significant role in decision-making, with virtual box becoming a more cost-effective solution. The prevalence of large virtual images and the cost implications of software and licensing choices are driving companies to explore cloud alternatives like virtual box.
Introducing the 'Space' Security Team at Reddit
Reddit has implemented a security team named 'Space' which stands for Security, Privacy, Automation, Compliance, and Engineering. The CISO of Reddit, Frederick Lee, discusses the formation and goals of the Space team, emphasizing the importance of evolving security strategies as the company progresses into the future.
The Shifting Focus Towards Cybersecurity in 2024
2024 is expected to witness a heightened emphasis on data security, API security, and compliance as top priorities for leaders across various industries. The increasing reliance on AI and ML technologies underscores the significance of prioritizing privacy, data security, and compliance measures.
Career Progression for CISOs
CISOs are increasingly transitioning into roles such as CIOs or CTOs, expanding their influence beyond cybersecurity to encompass broader organizational responsibilities. The role of CISOs is evolving to encompass strategic decision-making, business enablement, and technology leadership within companies.
Personal Growth and Learning
The CISO acknowledges the enriching journey of personal growth and learning, both in professional and personal realms. Reflecting on parental influence, outdoor activities, and hobbies like smoking meats, the CISO highlights the importance of balance and self-improvement outside of work.
Technology Nostalgia for Legacy Software Tools
While acknowledging the benefits of waterfall methodology's structured approach, the CISO expresses a fondness for legacy tools like ClearCase and Perforce. Despite the efficiency of modern tools, a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for past software experiences remains.
Acknowledgment of Parental Influence
The CISO expresses deep pride and appreciation for the resilience and sacrifices of their parents in overcoming challenges and fostering a culture of education, self-improvement, and humanity within the family.
Steak and Brisket as Culinary Favorites
Preferring the simplicity of steak and the artistry of smoking brisket, the CISO shares a passion for outdoor culinary endeavors such as smoking meats that offer a rewarding and immersive cooking experience.
Reflecting on the Importance of Stakeholder Management and Integration
Highlighting the benefits of stakeholder management, the CISO recognizes the positive pauses inherent in waterfall methodology that allow for strategic evaluation of project stages. Despite some advantages, the gradual integration of security principles within agile practices offers a more streamlined and collaborative approach.
What is it like to build a successful business based on risk? In this episode Ashish spoke to Fredrick Lee, CISO at Reddit. FLee shared his deep insights into the essential role of risk in driving business success and innovation. With a career that spans across notable tech giants like Square (now Block), Twilio, and Gusto, Lee brings a wealth of experience in both hardware and software security landscapes. Without embracing risk, businesses risk stagnation in a world where competitors are always ready to innovate. From discussing the cost-effective strategies in cybersecurity to exploring the formation and goals of Reddit's S.P.A.C.E team (Security, Privacy, Automation, Compliance, and Engineering), this episode gets into the challenges and opportunities presented by the modern tech environment
