Victoria University Names New CISO Following Year-Long Search

Victoria University Appoints Cybersecurity Leader After Extended Search

Following an extensive year-long search, Victoria University (VU) has selected Tara Dharnikota as its new Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). This appointment is part of a comprehensive organizational transformation designed to enhance the university’s digital security and infrastructure.

Revamped Cybersecurity Strategy within the DCS Division

Dharnikota will oversee cybersecurity efforts within the newly created Digital and Campus Services (DCS) division. This department combines IT services and facilities management to establish a more cohesive and strategic method for managing campus operations and digital upgrades. The reorganization signifies an emerging trend in higher education to integrate essential infrastructure and services for improved efficiency and resilience.

Directly reporting to Stuart Hildyard, Chief Digital Officer and Executive Director of Campus Services, Dharnikota’s responsibilities will include advancing the university’s cybersecurity strategy, strengthening cyber resilience, and ensuring adherence to both national and international standards.

Organizational Shift Inspires New Security Perspective

The university’s initiative to reform its operational framework initiated a thorough evaluation of its cybersecurity requirements. Cybersecurity and network operations were formerly managed by Nitan Singh, Director of Cyber and Digital Networks, who left in November 2023. The reorganization allowed the new CISO to concentrate solely on long-term strategic cyber projects, while network supervision is to be managed independently within the DCS division.

A representative from VU confirmed that all principal leadership positions within the department are now occupied, providing stability as the university enhances its internal security capabilities.

Tara Dharnikota’s Experience and Qualifications

Dharnikota transitions to VU from PEXA, where she directed information security management for two years. Her past experience includes nearly ten years at Telstra, where she took on various positions related to cybersecurity operations, governance, and compliance. Her diverse expertise equips her with a well-rounded understanding of enterprise-level security architecture and sector-specific vulnerabilities, especially in education and digital transactions.

This appointment signifies a crucial advancement for VU as it confronts escalating cyber threats targeting Australian educational establishments. The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has indicated that the education sector is one of the most heavily targeted by cybercriminals, underscoring the need for strong leadership in this domain.

PEXA Launches Search for Dharnikota’s Successor

After Dharnikota’s exit, PEXA has commenced the recruitment process for a new head of information security management. This position will involve overseeing security governance, compliance, and awareness initiatives, emphasizing the ongoing necessity for seasoned cybersecurity leadership within Australia’s digital and financial sectors.

Conclusion

Victoria University has successfully appointed Tara Dharnikota as its new Chief Information Security Officer following a year-long search and organizational restructuring. Her focus will be on directing the university’s cybersecurity strategy as part of the newly formed Digital and Campus Services division. With over ten years of experience at Telstra and PEXA, Dharnikota possesses the vital expertise to protect the university’s digital framework amid increasing cyber threats geared towards the education sector.

Q: Why was the CISO position at Victoria University unoccupied for such an extended period?

A:

The position remained vacant for over a year due to an organizational overhaul that included a thorough evaluation of the university’s cybersecurity framework. This restructuring aimed to better integrate cybersecurity with overarching digital and campus infrastructure objectives.

Q: What responsibilities will Tara Dharnikota hold at Victoria University?

A:

As the newly appointed CISO, Dharnikota will be in charge of cybersecurity strategy, risk management, compliance, and incident response across the university, functioning under the direct supervision of the Chief Digital Officer. Her role is crucial in enhancing the university’s cyber resilience and strategic defense measures.

Q: What exactly is the Digital and Campus Services (DCS) department?

A:

The DCS department is a consolidated entity that integrates IT services with campus facilities management. This integration aims to streamline processes and enhance security and operational efficiency throughout the university’s physical and digital landscapes.

Q: What qualifications does Tara Dharnikota bring to her new position?

A:

Dharnikota has accumulated over 12 years of experience in cybersecurity, including roles at Telstra and PEXA. Her expertise encompasses governance, compliance, security operations, and leadership, making her exceptionally qualified to lead VU’s cybersecurity strategy.

Q: Who managed cybersecurity at VU prior to this appointment?

A:

Before Dharnikota’s appointment, cybersecurity operations were under the supervision of Nitan Singh, who was the Director of Cyber and Digital Networks. He left the institution in late 2023, after which the role was left vacant during the organizational restructuring.

Q: What cybersecurity threats do Australian universities encounter?

A:

Australian universities are experiencing increasing threats from cybercriminals, including ransomware, data breaches, and attacks aimed at research and intellectual property. The ACSC has recognized the education sector as one of the highest-risk areas for cyber incidents.

Q: What steps is PEXA taking following Dharnikota’s exit?

A:

PEXA is proactively seeking to recruit a new head of information security management to ensure a continuation of oversight in security governance, compliance, and awareness initiatives, thereby maintaining its digital security leadership.