It’s time to introduce you to three new BARR associates: Avi Benshoshan, senior consultant, cyber risk advisory, Claire McKenna, associate content writer and editor, and Megan Sajewski, associate consultant, cyber risk advisory.
Let’s take a minute to get to know a bit about each of them.
Avi Benshoshan
What are you reading or listening to right now that may interest BARR clients?
- Smashing Security, available on Apple podcasts and Spotify, offers news from the world of cybersecurity, hacking, and internet threats.
- Security Now with Steve Gibson, which is one of the longest running security podcasts about analysis and detailed technical analysis of different security headlines in the industry.
- The book “Spam Nation,” written by respected security consultant Brian Krebs, explores the history of the spam industry.
Rusty
What are some cybersecurity industry trends to watch for?
I think that cloud-based security threats are one of the bigger trends to watch for in a post-pandemic society. Many companies are adopting a hybrid model in terms of working from home or working in the office as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. There will likely be a large increase in cloud-based security attacks as employees are more susceptible to a breach in a remote environment.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
Graduating from college as a first-generation American.
Favorite quote?
“I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’”—Muhammad Ali
Do you have any pets?
My housemate and I have been taking care of his sister’s cockapoo for the last year. His name is Rusty.
Claire McKenna
What excites you about where the industry is going?
I am most excited about the growing intersection between cybersecurity and communication. As cybersecurity becomes more essential for every company, it’s important for every individual to understand their cyber risk, not just those with a technical background. By communicating complex cybersecurity practices in a simple way, we can bridge the gap between those with and without technical backgrounds and mitigate risk more effectively.
Claire and her mom
What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been or favorite vacation spot?
The Algarve region in Portugal is the most beautiful place I’ve ever been! The cliffs and beaches are stunning.
What inspires you?
My mom is my biggest inspiration. Not only has she built an incredible career in cybersecurity and privacy law, she’s also one of the most loving and supportive people on the planet.
What is the most important personal attribute you bring to your job?
Positivity! Bringing a smile and positive energy to every meeting can have a big impact.
What are you most excited about for BARR’s future?
I am constantly impressed with BARR’s commitment to diversity, and I am so excited to watch BARR continue to grow with new associates who can bring in new perspectives.
Megan Sajewski
Favorite quote?
I live each day by the Parks Project motto: leave it better than you found it.
What are some industry trends we should all watch for?
I’m excited for the potential of quantum computing, especially the eventual introduction of the quantum internet and how the cybersecurity surface area can expand as a result.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
Completing a 200-hour yoga teacher training while studying at Yale. For six months, I had one weekend of unscheduled time. It was quite the challenge, and it set me up for a lifelong commitment to personal development and self-investment.
What is your favorite outdoor activity?
Swimming in the ocean! Far enough out where you can ride the waves. Much better with friends, new or old! I love the feeling of communing with nature.
Why should clients choose BARR? What’s different about our approach?
BARR associates live the company values in their daily lives, which creates a feeling of reliability and stability. As a result, when associates show up, we do so authentically, creating client experiences that are as memorable as they are thorough in their audit rigor.
Interested in joining the BARR team, too? Check out our open positions.