Top cybersecurity achievements celebrated at 2023 iSANZ Awards
New Zealand's information security community has recognised top professionals and organisations at the 2023 iSANZ Awards, held in Wellington. This year's ceremony highlighted achievements across several cybersecurity categories, including outstanding individual, team, and organisational contributions that support the country's digital resilience.
Individual recognition
Philip Whitmore, Partner - Cybersecurity at KPMG, was named Senior Cyber Security Professional of the Year. Judges cited Whitmore's contributions in building consultancy practices and advancing professional development within the sector. His work in community outreach and thought leadership was also noted as influential for the local cyber security community.
"We continue to be impressed by the achievements of all the entrants, finalists, and winners, who represent some of the most skilled and dedicated professionals in the information security field," said Kendra Ross, Chair, iSANZ Board.
Megan Young was named Up and Coming Cyber Security Star of the Year. Judges remarked on her achievements at Spark over a three-year period, highlighting her capability across multiple cybersecurity domains and her contribution to fostering a positive team environment.
Team awards
The BNZ Cyber Governance Team was selected as Security Team of the Year. According to judges, the team made significant enhancements to their security programme, focusing equally on people, processes, and technology while maintaining a data-driven commitment to diversity. BNZ was also recognised in the NZ Secure Development Team of the Year category for its Pixie Mob team. Judges pointed out the team's advancements with technical DevSecOps processes and its effect beyond the bank through automated security improvements and an emphasis on onboarding developers.
Sector initiatives
The Ministry of Education received the Project / Awareness Initiative of the Year award for consolidating and overseeing security efforts across the education sector. Judges highlighted the Ministry's structured approach in coordinating protection for thousands of staff, students, educational systems, and data against digital threats.
Start-up impact
Outfox received recognition as Start-up or New Business of the Year. Judges commented on the company's focus on providing services to small and medium-sized enterprises, an often neglected market, and noted its workplace diversity policy that covers both gender and neurodiversity.
Longstanding contribution
The Hall of Fame Award was presented to Tony Krzyzewski, acknowledging his four-decade career in the information security field. Krzyzewski's experience spans network operations, system design, and international cybersecurity standards. He serves as Global Cyber Alliance Ambassador and as New Zealand's Convenor for the International Standards Organisation SC27 Committee.
"Tony has made first-class contributions to the information security landscape encompassing operations, network design, and technology innovation. As a Global Cyber Alliance Ambassador and New Zealand's Convenor for the International Standards Organisation SC27 Committee, his international contributions have been outstanding," said Ross.
