Ferry joined SIDN in February 2024 as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). His broad background ranges from helpdesk roles to system administration and consultancy for a variety of companies.
Why did you choose SIDN?
For me, it was mainly because of the importance SIDN has within the Dutch internet infrastructure. As a millennial, I want to make a contribution to society. 😉
What was your first week like?
Hectic, to say the least! I was bombarded with information right from the start. There had been quite a few changes in roles within Tech, and some employees had left or joined the organisation, which was in the midst of a transition. I spent most of my first week and period talking to colleagues and getting to know people within SIDN. I also had to absorb all the information I needed for my role and learn more about the ICT transition and the associated plans for the future. I also had to find my feet as the new CISO.
How do you like working for us?
I come from a commercial background and found it a bit of a culture shock at first, but in a positive way. Employees really are the focus at SIDN. Their health and wellbeing are paramount here, and you are given every opportunity to find your own way and develop yourself.
Do you feel you already know SIDN well as an organisation?
Yes, I had to, otherwise I wouldn't be able to do my job properly. I had to quickly familiarise myself with everything and also form my own vision of security within SIDN.
What did you find difficult and what surprised you in a positive way?
What I found difficult was getting a good overview of all the work that came my way straight away. What surprised me in a positive way was the commitment of the people who work here to SIDN's higher goal. And by that I really mean a secure and stable .nl domain and a carefree online experience for everyone, which is what we stand for.
SIDN is an organisation of and for explorers. We employ people with an exploratory mindset. What have you discovered at SIDN?
That there is room for entrepreneurship. As a foundation, we are certainly not a stuffy organisation, but are run like a business. I can really identify with that and it brings out the best in me.
How do you see your future at SIDN?
Over the next two to three years, there will be more than enough work for me in my role as CISO at SIDN. We are in the middle of a transition, which is bringing new things, but is also still subject to change.
