InterviewsSecurityWomen in Technology

Women Are Proving All Over the World That They Can Handle Any Job: Vivian Gevers

Arabian Reseller speaks to Vivian Gevers, the Managing Director of Credence Security, about her journey into the IT industry thus far.

Tell us about your leadership style and philosophy.
Empowerment and Enablement of human capital. I believe that our greatest resource and differentiator is our ability to attract and retain top quality talent while providing them the freedom to innovate and grow.

Women in the field of technology are in the minority, so why did you decide to pursue a career in tech?
Women are proving all over the world that they can handle any job, including C-level positions in technology, which has traditionally been male dominated. I find technology invigorating and motivating; this appeals to my sense of adventure and appreciation for tackling challenges.

How has your unique background prepared you for success in the industry?
The technology industry brings people together from all cultures, races and religions. Being a South African who grew up during a time of social and cultural integration, I have benefited by having diverse group of friends and associates who have help shape me to be accepting and appreciative of our differences and harness these differences to build dynamic and successful businesses.

What was your most interesting job?
While my day job as Managing Director at Credence Security is very fulfilling, I would have to say that my most interesting “job” has to be my role as mother of a 3-year-old girl. When I get home, I make it a point to put work aside give her my undivided attention till she goes to bed. It is extremely rewarding though she does keep me on my toes!

What advice would you give to women looking to break into the field of computer technology?
Be fearless and expect nothing less than the best from yourself; invest in your education and training.

What is the greatest transformation in technology you’ve witnessed in your career?
The explosion of Cyber Security solutions and service to address and combat the new cyber security challenges brought on particularly by the Internet of Things (IoT) has been remarkable. Making the transition from security devices to security intelligence and threat modeling has really changed the way my clients manage their response.

What are your thoughts on the next transformation in the tech industry?
I think that the Internet of Things is really going to make every device and service smart. We already live in an era of smart homes, smart cities and smart cars; I think we will see more of this in the transportation and military industries as well as in the field of medicine.

You were an early player in your industry. How would you describe the technology market today and what it has been able to accomplish?
Our lives are forever changed by technology. I can’t image living in a world where I didn’t have any piece of information or contact at my fingertips via my smart phone. Faster, better and more effective services from government, healthcare and business will continue to evolve and improve.

Are you involved in any sort of volunteer work? Can you give us some details?
Between my day job at Credence Security and my evening “job” playing mom, there just aren’t enough hours in the day. That being said, I do believe that giving back is important and once my daughter is a little older, I would love to find a volunteering opportunity that the two of us can do together.

What’s next for you in terms of your career in the tech industry?
I plan to continue to expand Credence Security’s presence in the region for the foreseeable future. In parallel, I would like to become more active in other tech companies by investing in early-stage companies and sitting in as an advisor.

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Chris Fernando

Chris N. Fernando is an experienced media professional with over two decades of journalistic experience. He is the Editor of Arabian Reseller magazine, the authoritative guide to the regional IT industry. Follow him on Twitter (@chris508) and Instagram (@chris2508).

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