Business Technology
Holding You Back?

Your business deserves a secure and efficient IT system that drives growth, not holds you back.

Whether it’s navigating complex compliance, defending against cybersecurity threats, or finding the right tech talent, these challenges can slow you down without the right strategy and approach.

I provide professional, technology and cyber security solutions that deliver measurable results – without the overhead of full-time staff or large consultancies.

Let’s work together to solve your challenges with smart, secure and cost effective technology that drives your business forward.

Josh Wood

Principal Technology & Cyber Security Consultant

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Six Critical Risks Affecting Businesses Globally!

Not sure what threats you’re up against? These six critical risks could be holding your business back.

Cyber Risk & Security Threats

Cyber security Threats

Cyberattacks, ransomware, and data breaches are becoming more sophisticated daily. With AI-driven threats on the rise, protecting your business has never been more critical.

Strategy & Long-Term Planning

Clear Strategy

Are you reacting to IT issues instead of proactively addressing them? A lack of a long-term strategy can leave your business vulnerable to operational inefficiencies and security risks.

Compliance Obligations

Compliance Headaches

Meeting evolving regulations, such as the Privacy Act, Mandatory Notifiable Data Breach Scheme (NDB), and ISO 27001, can be overwhelming. Non-compliance can lead to costly audits and reputational damage.

Aligning Technology with Business Goals

Tech & Business Alignment

Many businesses struggle to align their IT investments with their overall strategy. Are your technology initiatives helping to drive business growth, or are they just adding to inefficiencies and overhead?

Skilled Tech & Cyber Talent

Talent Shortages

With top cybersecurity and IT talent being absorbed by larger companies and governments, finding qualified professionals is increasingly difficult. This shortage can leave your business vulnerable to inefficient systems and security gaps. Is your team fully equipped to handle today’s tech and cyber challenges?

Vendor Relationships

Vendor Dependence

Are vendors acting in your best interest? Vendor lock-in and lack of transparency can be costly. Are you getting unbiased, vendor-agnostic advice that genuinely benefits your business?

 

Sound familiar?

Your business may be facing some or all of these critical risks—or perhaps you’re unaware they even exist? Without a clear understanding and full visibility, managing these risks is virtually impossible.

The reality is, you can’t manage what you can’t see and control. Now is the time to take a step back, ask the fundamental questions, and gain clarity on your approach and strategy.

“The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” – Albert Einstein

Are Technology Risks Holding Your Business Back?

Every business today is dealing with technology and cybersecurity risks.

But many don’t notice the risks until – BOOM – a breach, a failure, or a disaster strikes. Suddenly, you’re in damage control, scrambling, and spending a fortune to mitigate risks that could’ve been mitigated or even avoided.

By then, the damage is done. You’re burning time and resources just to get back to where you started.

Sound familiar? It’s all too common. Australian businesses are losing millions – not to mention the operational and reputational damage – All because they didn’t confront these risks head-on.

If you’re here, you likely sense that something isn’t quite right. To gain clarity, we need to ask ourselves some fundamental questions:

  • How will technology transform our industry?
  • Is our technology driving business growth?
  • Are staff prepared to handle cybersecurity risks?
  • Is our cybersecurity strategy and risk management rock solid?
  • What’s our business AI strategy?

One of the biggest hurdles when asking these questions is how do you know what’s working?

Well that requires a fresh perspective – someone who can see the big picture and has the skills and experience to help you address these risks and challenges head-on, and that starts with a new approach and stratergy because continuing with the same approach while expecting different results is, as Einstein put it, the definition of insanity.

For over 17 years, I’ve been helping businesses like yours overcome their toughest technology and cybersecurity challenges. As a Principal Technology & Cybersecurity Consultant, I partner directly with you and your team to deliver practical, cost-effective solutions that tackle cybersecurity, compliance, and technology risks and challenges head-on.
From eCommerce startups to federal government contracts meeting Right Fit for Risk (RFFR) obligations, I’ve worked across nearly every industry.

My approach is rooted in constantly refining my skills, asking fundamental questions, and seeking out the knowledge needed to stay ahead in a fast-evolving tech and cyber landscape. In late 2023, I attended Harvard University, learning from the world’s top CISOs and security leaders on how to craft world-class risk management strategies. We’re talking defense-grade cyber strategies. While they might seem excessive for your business, the principles are universal. I don’t rely on what I think I know; I’m always evolving my skills and thinking to meet new threats head-on.

Today, we see many IT professionals stepping into cybersecurity roles. While that’s a positive shift, it raises a crucial question: do you want someone merely dabbling in your cyber risk, or someone who truly understands the stakes? The reality is, many in-house teams or vendors only know what they know. Are they really prepared to have your back when it matters most? If you’re seeking a true specialist with deep, battle-tested expertise in both technology and cyber risk management – someone who will make sure nothing falls through the cracks then having a chat could be the game changer.

With experience in cyber risk frameworks and standards like ISO 27001, the Australian Government’s Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF), and the Information Security Manual (ISM), I bring a wealth of knowledge and value to every client engagement. Let’s make sure your business is not only protected, but fully prepared to move forward with confidence.

How I can Help You

Aligning Technology with Business Goals

  • Aligning IT initiatives with business objectives to maximize efficiency and drive innovation. Experienced in collaborating with executives to ensure technology solutions not only meet but exceed business expectations.

Simplifying Executive Decision-Making

  • Translating complex technical challenges into clear, actionable insights to facilitate informed executive decision-making. Skilled in mentoring and guiding leadership through strategic IT implementations and enhancements.

Artificial Intelligence in Business

  • Leveraging artificial intelligence to automate processes, enhance data analysis, and support dynamic business growth. Proven track record in integrating AI solutions to streamline operations and generate valuable business insights.

Ensuring Regulatory Compliance

  • Performing thorough assessments to identify compliance gaps.
  • Preparing organizations for regulatory audits and certifications.
  • Maintaining compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Australian Standards & Acts

  • Ensuring adherence to the Right Fit for Risk accreditation requirements.
  • Complying with the Privacy Act, including the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
  • Implementing the ASD Essential Eight Maturity Model to bolster cybersecurity defenses.

International Standards

  • Assisting with ISO/IEC 27001 certification processes to manage information security systematically.
  • Integrating and complying with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for data protection and privacy.
  • Implementing the NIST Cybersecurity Framework to manage cybersecurity-related risks.
  • Preparing for the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance to secure card transactions.
  • Ensuring compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for protected health information.

Driving Digital Transformation

  • Guiding organizations through digital transformation initiatives to leverage new technologies for business growth.
  • Integrating digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency and improve customer experiences.

Cloud Strategy and Migration

  • Developing and executing cloud strategies to ensure seamless migration to optimized cloud infrastructure.
  • Ensuring secure and efficient data transfer to cloud environments, enhancing scalability and reducing operational costs.

Cybersecurity Enhancement and Modernization

  • Overseeing the modernization of cybersecurity infrastructure to incorporate advanced threat detection and response systems.
  • Implementing next-generation cybersecurity technologies, including Advanced Endpoint Protection (AEP) and the integration of SIEM/SOAR systems, to provide comprehensive protection.
  • Streamlining and upgrading cybersecurity practices to meet and exceed current security standards, ensuring robust defense mechanisms are in place to safeguard critical systems and data.

Cyber Security Audits

  • Conducting cybersecurity audits to identify vulnerabilities within systems, networks, and processes.
  • Performing compliance assessments to ensure readiness for regulatory audits and certifications.
  • Preparing organizations for regulatory audits and certifications.

Strategic Risk Management

  • Developing comprehensive strategies that align with business objectives.
  • Establishing continuous monitoring to detect and respond to security incidents in real time.
  • Preparing for potential security breaches by developing and implementing effective incident response plans.

Data Privacy

  • Protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access and breaches through robust privacy practices.
  • Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, including the Australian Privacy Act 1988.

Natural and Innovative Problem-Solver

From a young age, I was fascinated by how things worked—taking apart toys, engines, and eventually computers. At 6, a family computer ignited a passion that has brought me to the forefront of technology and cybersecurity today.
Certified and committed to continuous learning, I stay ahead of emerging threats and technological advancements. Whether developing security strategies, implementing governance frameworks, or advising on cutting-edge solutions, I am here to enhance your cybersecurity and drive strategic growth.
My Qualifications

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
CISSP certification from ISC2 as of September 2022

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized certification in the field of information security. Offered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, commonly known as (ISC)², the CISSP certification is designed for professionals aiming to prove their expertise and skills in designing, implementing, and managing a best-in-class cybersecurity program.

Harvard University
Executive Certificate, CybersecurIty Risk Management 2023

The Harvard VPAL’s Cybersecurity Managing Risk in the Information Age provides comprehensive understanding of how to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities within an organization’s networks, systems, and data.

Australian Computer Society
Certified Technologist as of 2017

The Australian Certified Technologist (CT) is a professional certification offered by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), aimed at recognizing the skills and expertise of technology professionals in Australia. This certification is designed for individuals who possess practical and applied knowledge in their field and seek to demonstrate their competency to employers and clients.

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology – NAC
Diploma in Aviation – Commercial pilot, Flght instructor

During my Diploma in Aviation, I gained both private and commercial pilot licenses, which taught me the importance of risk management in high-pressure environments. As a flight instructor and pilot flying tourists around active volcanoes, I developed a deep understanding of anticipating and mitigating risks. These experiences have shaped my approach to technology and cybersecurity today, where proactive planning and strategic decision-making are critical to navigating challenges and ensuring business resilience.

Client Outcomes

I’ve worked with a diverse range of business owners and executives, below are some of my recent client engagements.

Get Back Control

Ready to take control of your technology and cybersecurity risks?

Schedule a free discovery call, and let’s dive into your specific challenges. We’ll discuss how I can help you overcome obstacles, achieve your goals, and drive your business forward.

Contact Josh

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