Katie Shanahan

Katie is the youngest ever Associate Director at Crossword Cybersecurity, delivering transformation programmes for clients from startups to FTSE 100s.

Having originally studied Languages and Humanities, she continues to enjoy a breadth of subjects. After working in Germany as part of ING’s Communications team and being involved in a migration project, Katie finished her degree and worked at a PropTech startup, managing numerous responsibilities. Despite being one of the most junior people in the organisation, Katie set up and led the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. After leaving the startup, Katie moved into Information Security where she has been ever since – supporting clients and delivering value across people, process, and technology.

Katie’s focus is always on improving the way things work, whether that’s internal improvements or security programmes, and always with a people focus. Alongside her day job, Katie founded a faculty for young professionals to share their expertise within the Finance Sector and leads activities for a SheLeadsTech chapter. Katie also seeks opportunities to improve the wider tech community, whether that’s mentoring and coaching people within her network, elevating diverse voices, or giving talks to inspire more people to join the sector. She has also advised a number of organisations on how to improve their inclusivity approach, driving real change for their audiences and attendees.