The Secure Developer

Advancing AppSec With AI With Akira Brand

4 snips
Apr 15, 2025
Akira Brand, AVP of Application Security at PRA Group, shares her fascinating journey from opera to cybersecurity. She emphasizes how AppSec is fundamentally a customer service role, advocating for a seamless integration of security tools in developers' workflows. The conversation delves into the transformative impact of AI on security processes and the pressing need for adaptable compliance standards amidst rapid technological evolution. Akira’s unique insights inspire a collaborative approach to making security more approachable and effective for software engineers.
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ANECDOTE

From Opera To AppSec Leadership

  • Akira Brand transitioned from opera and stage direction to AppSec, bringing unique leadership skills from the arts.
  • Her stage director experience helps foster collaboration and empower security teams effectively.
INSIGHT

AppSec as Customer Service

  • AppSec functions as a customer service role with software engineers as customers.
  • Providing easy-to-use tools and education is the "pickle" that developers seek.
ADVICE

Host Engaging Security Lunches

  • Host regular security-focused educational sessions tied to engineers' current work.
  • Use these to pique curiosity and empower developers to improve security practices.
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