Peter Bassill

Peter Bassill stands as a prominent figure in the cybersecurity realm, bringing over three decades of extensive experience and profound expertise to the industry. As the CEO and Head of Threat Disruption at Hedgehog Security, Peter’s journey through the landscape of information technology and cybersecurity has been marked by innovative leadership, significant contributions to security practices, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the digital world.

Early Career and Foundation

Peter's professional journey began in 1996, laying a robust foundation in information systems operations and network engineering. His early roles involved hands-on experience with system administration and network management, which provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the technological infrastructures that underpin modern businesses. This period was crucial in shaping his technical skills and fostering a deep-seated passion for cybersecurity.

Commitment to Cybersecurity

Peter's formal foray into the cybersecurity field commenced in 1999, and since then, he has consistently been at the forefront of cybersecurity operations. His roles have spanned various high-profile organizations, including Gala Coral Group, Microsoft, Coral Racing, and Eurobet Italia. In these positions, Peter led defensive operations, demonstrating his capability to safeguard critical information assets and infrastructure.

Leadership at Hedgehog Security

In 2009, driven by a vision to enhance the protection of the connected world, Peter founded Hedgehog Security. As the CEO, he oversees all facets of the company's operations, from policy formulation to implementation. His leadership style is characterized by a strategic approach, integrating both technical prowess and business acumen to drive the company’s success. Hedgehog Security, under Peter's guidance, has earned a reputation for excellence, particularly in SOC (Security Operations Center) monitoring and penetration testing.

Thought Leadership and Community Engagement

Peter's influence extends beyond his organizational boundaries through his active involvement in the cybersecurity community. He sits on the CREST Council of Europe, assisting regulators across the EU, and is a member of the European Incident Response board. His thought leadership is evidenced by his frequent contributions to industry conferences, webinars, and publications. Peter’s insights into contemporary cybersecurity challenges, trends, and best practices have educated and influenced the broader security landscape.

Specializations and Research

Peter's areas of specialization include wireless networking, communication, and IoT technologies. Since 2005, he has delved into the intricate realms of these domains, making significant contributions, particularly from an Offensive Security perspective. His research interests have led to extensive work on IoT adoption and secure wireless communication. Notably, Peter has been involved in maritime navigation projects, utilizing IoT expertise to enhance the adoption of safe and secure navigational aids within the community.

Recognition and Awards

Peter's contributions to cybersecurity have been widely recognized. In 2009, he was a runner-up in the SC Magazine’s Information Security Person of the Year, reflecting his dedication and impact on the field. His technical certifications, including the prestigious Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), underscore his commitment to maintaining a high standard of professional excellence.

Publications and Contributions

Peter is a prolific author and thought leader, with numerous publications to his name. His works cover a wide range of topics, including IoT security, wireless communication, and practical cybersecurity measures. Some of his notable publications include:

• Secured Navigation with Raspberry Pi & Nano
• What Every CEO Needs to Know about Cyber Security
• IoT Revolution in the Maritime Sector
• Penetration Testing with Metasploit Pro (internal Rapid7 training course and manual)
• Cyber Security in the Real World (Infosec Europe)
• Information Security for the SME (Infosec Europe)
• Managing Cyber Security in a Dashboard (Splunk Congress)
• Cyber Security Defence in Practice
• What the Big 4 Got Wrong
• Whitepaper on Defending Web Applications through OWASP
• Whitepaper on the Management of DDoS Attacks
• Nexpose Masterclass (internal Rapid7 manual and training course)

These publications not only highlight Peter's depth of knowledge but also his commitment to advancing the cybersecurity field through education and practical guidance.

Strategic Leadership and Industry Impact

As a strategic leader, Peter is at the forefront of formulating and implementing growth strategies for the cybersecurity sector. His ability to navigate the complexities of the industry and foster the development of future leaders is evident in his ongoing mentorship and strategic initiatives. Peter’s daily decisions play a pivotal role in shaping the success of Hedgehog Security, and his influence extends to clients, partners, industry leaders, and government entities.

Vision for the Future

Peter Bassill's vision for the future of cybersecurity is centered on continued innovation and the advancement of security practices. He remains committed to fostering a culture of security awareness and expanding the reach of Hedgehog Security to support more organizations in their quest for robust cyber defense. His strategic relationships and active engagement with governing bodies ensure that his influence will continue to drive positive change in the industry.

Personal Attributes and Leadership Style

Peter is known for his ability to articulate and teach complex ideas, enabling effective communication across all levels of an organization. His leadership style is characterized by a balance of strategic vision and hands-on technical expertise, fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment. Regularly assessing the impact of emerging practices and technologies, Peter effectively communicates potential risks to governments, organizations, and individuals, thereby enhancing overall cybersecurity resilience.

Summary

Peter Bassill’s extensive career in cybersecurity is a testament to his profound expertise, innovative leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting the digital world. As the CEO and Head of Threat Disruption at Hedgehog Security, his influence spans across multiple dimensions of the industry, from strategic leadership and community engagement to specialized research and thought leadership. Peter's vision for the future continues to inspire and drive advancements in cybersecurity, ensuring a safer and more secure connected world for all.

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