CyberWire Daily Jamil Jaffer: You should run towards risk. [Strategy] [Career Notes]
Jun 29, 2025
Jamil Jaffer is a dynamic Senior Vice President at IronNet Cybersecurity and a former member of the National Security division of the Justice Department. In the discussion, he reveals how his tech passion shaped his career, emphasizing the importance of running toward risk rather than avoiding it. Jamil shares insights from his early life and family background, alongside stories from the post-9/11 cybersecurity landscape. He encourages listeners to embrace risk in their careers, highlighting the field's opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
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Early Tech Roots and Work Ethic
- Jamil Jaffer's family immigrated with few resources, and his parents instilled a strong work ethic. He grew up passionate about technology, paying his way through college doing computer support.
- His early tech experience included running network cables and supporting multiple UCLA departments, showing deep-rooted tech engagement despite a government and law career path.
Government Cybersecurity Career
- Jamil worked at the Justice Department's National Security Division after 9/11, applying cyber skills to counterterrorism and espionage.
- He served in multiple government roles including White House Counsel and House Intelligence Committee, leading initiatives on national cybersecurity and cyber information sharing.
Embrace Risk and Adversity
- You should run towards adversity and risk instead of avoiding them.
- Embracing risk leads to learning and success, especially in cybersecurity where opportunities abound.