30 Under 30 – Sam Hoffmann – Judge Profile

1. Date of birth

31 October 1980 – Halloween!

2. Occupation

Digital Security Manager at Microgaming

3. Career

There’s no doubt that cybercrime, be it malware, ransomware, phishing and hack attacks, is becoming an increasing threat to organisations. For Microgaming, one of the biggest technology providers in the online gaming industry, it’s my job to ensure we are taking the necessary steps to protect the business here in the Isle of Man.As Microgaming’s Digital Security Manager I am responsible for leading and managing the Information Security agenda across the company. Collaborating closely with the Head of Internal Compliance and a Global Security team, I advise, design and deploy pragmatic security solutions to maintain the company’s cyber security infrastructure. My work includes the creation and maintenance of technical controls and policies, in addition to taking an active role in business and IT change activities to get everyone on the same page.My role is pretty complex and challenging, but 11 years in and I am still passionate about the job. I guess working in a field that you absolutely love, for a company that you are passionate about, you don’t need too much motivation.

4. Out of work interests

I love the outdoors! I enjoy cycling and exploring, finding amazing vinyl records, slam poetry and living my best life.

5. Notable work and/or life achievements

I am most proud of taking the big leap from South Africa to relocate to the Isle of Man to head up Microgaming’s IT Security team.Since then, I was shortlisted for Security Leader of the Year for the Women in IT Awards 2017 where I was nominated alongside other female tech leaders in the forefront of their respective industries. More recently, I have been lucky enough to be involved in local community initiatives like Love Tech, lending my experience and expertise to inspire and encourage young women to get involved in technology.

6. Why did you want to be involved with 30 Under 30?

I think this is a great platform to expose a group of people doing amazing things on the island. The island might be small when measured in miles, but the people living here, be it artists, athletes, entrepreneurs, etc., are world class and it’s important that we champion those individuals.

7. What are you looking out for from nominees?

The ideal nominees need to be passionate, ambitious and sincere. I am looking for someone that is making a positive difference in everyday life in some kind of way or have started off by solving a problem. A key factor would be to determine how they define what success means to them.Nominations are now open for the Island’s first 30 Under 30 initiative. To find out more about the campaign and how you can nominate somebody remarkable under the age of 30, head over here. Be sure to give the 30 Under 30 Facebook Page a like to be kept up to date.//cdn.bannerflow.com/bf-placements/5b71646342b95316c83990e4?responsive=on&nid=1&targeturl=