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Robert McAdam
Executive Leader | Cybersecurity Strategist & M&A Specialist
Professional Background
Rob McAdam is a highly respected figure in the cybersecurity sector, with a career spanning over three decades. He began his journey in the security field in 1990 with the New South Wales Police Force, where he served actively for eight years. During this formative period, Mr. McAdam honed his skills in security protocols and gained practical experience in law enforcement that would later inform his work in cybersecurity.
In 1998, Rob transitioned to the technology giant IBM as a Program Manager. He led a substantial team of 178, both paid and volunteer, to ensure security measures during the prestigious Sydney Olympics in 2000. His leadership and organizational skills were pivotal in managing the critical security needs of such a large-scale event, which required meticulous planning and expert execution.
Following the Olympics, Rob continued at IBM, moving into the Security and Privacy Practice. As the Program Manager for Penetration Testing, Managed Firewalls, and Intrusion Detection Systems across the Asia Pacific region, he significantly contributed to the strategic development of cybersecurity measures for diverse industries.
In 2002, Rob McAdam founded Pure Hacking, a dedicated penetration testing company that quickly established itself as a leader in the cybersecurity domain. Under his guidance, Pure Hacking focused on delivering comprehensive penetration testing services, including internal and external testing, application audits, and ongoing security management. The company distinguished itself as an impartial authority in the field, providing a depth of knowledge and a singular focus on security. This commitment to excellence led to significant expansion, with Pure Hacking executing projects in over 14 countries and building a global reputation.
The achievements of Pure Hacking did not go unnoticed. In 2007, the company was recognized in the Deloitte Fast 50, ranked in My Business top 5 out of 500 businesses, and included in the BRW Fast Starters Top 100 with a special editorial for innovation. These accolades underscored Rob’s vision and the company’s continuous growth and innovation in cybersecurity.Services expanded to cater to a growing clientele, solidifying Pure Hacking’s reputation in the industry.
In 2014, Pure Hacking was acquired by PS&C Limited, a publicly listed entity on the Australian Stock Exchange. Following this transition, Rob played a vital role in preparing the company's assets for relisting on the ASX, engaging with the Board, overseeing mergers and acquisitions, and operational oversight of the PS&C Security Practice until 2017.
In the same year, Mr. McAdam established CXO Security, a consultancy firm dedicated to addressing security matters within the executive suite. His focus was on providing expertise in cybersecurity for Boards, managing incident responses, and assisting businesses with security certifications. Over his tenure at CXO Security, he successfully serviced over 200 clients, reinforcing the importance of cybersecurity strategies in high-level organizational structures.
Further building on his accomplishments, in October 2021, Rob co-created Sekuro, an ambitious initiative that involved collaboration with M&A professionals and three other established cyber security consultancies—Privasec, Solista and Naviro. Sekuro was designed to deliver an expansive suite of capabilities required in the enterprise market, encompassing advisory services, technology and platform engineering, team augmentation, managed services, and assurance compliance, which are essential for both on-premises and cloud-based implementations.
Education and Achievements
Rob McAdam’s educational journey is as impressive as his professional one, showcasing his dedication to expanding his knowledge and expertise in both security and technology. He holds a Master of Project Management (MPM) from The George Washington University, equipping him with advanced skills in managing complex projects within various sectors. Robinson furthered his studies in information technology, attaining a Master’s degree from Bond University. This formal education provided him with a robust understanding of the technological landscape, an essential skill in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
His academic foundation is further strengthened by a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Statistics from Macquarie University, combining technical training with insights into human behavior, which is vital in understanding security vulnerabilities. Additionally, Rob obtained an Associate Diploma in Policing from Charles Sturt University, solidifying his background in law enforcement and public safety measures. His educational journey began at Marist Brothers Pagewood, where he completed his Higher School Certificate (HSC).
Rob's career is decorated with notable achievements, including his instrumental role in building Pure Hacking into a top-tier security firm recognized for its innovation and excellence. His leadership has been recognized through various awards, illustrating his significant contribution to the cybersecurity industry, particularly in penetration testing and security practices.
Achievements
- Founding Pure Hacking - Established in 2002, Pure Hacking quickly rose to become a leading authority in the cybersecurity domain, specializing in penetration testing and offering services to numerous clients across the globe.
- Recognition in Awards - Under Rob’s leadership, Pure Hacking was listed in prestigious rankings such as Deloitte Fast 50, My Business Top 5, and BRW Fast Starters, celebrating its rapid growth and innovation in cybersecurity.
- Expansion of Services - Successfully expanded Pure Hacking’s services to over 14 countries, showcasing the company’s capability to handle large-scale projects and complex security needs.
- Successful Sale to PS&C - Led the sale of Pure Hacking to PS&C Limited, overseeing crucial aspects of the acquisition and facilitating a smooth transition for the company.
- Establishment of CXO Security - Created a consultancy specializing in executive-level cybersecurity issues, helping more than 200 clients navigate the complexities of modern cyber threats.
- Co-founding Sekuro - Collaboratively launched Sekuro with other esteemed cybersecurity consultancies, aimed at providing comprehensive solutions to enterprises in a rapidly changing market.
In conclusion, Rob McAdam’s extensive experience, coupled with his strong educational background, positions him as a leading figure in the cybersecurity landscape. His ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation continues to impact the field positively, and his work at CXO Security and Sekuro reflects his dedication to advancing cybersecurity solutions for organizations worldwide.
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