The BARR Advisory team continues to grow with the addition of three new associates: Nicole Dillard and Dan Mathewson, senior consultants, cyber risk advisory, and Christine Falk, marketing content manager. Dillard lives in Dallas, Mathewson in Duluth, Minnesota, and Falk in the Kansas City area.
Let’s take a minute to get to know a bit about each of them.
Nicole Dillard
- What are some books, podcasts, or documentaries you recommend to readers?
The following recommendations have had an impact on my life both personally and professionally. Each, in its own way, has taught me determination and belief in oneself is our biggest capital. Simply put, if you believe in yourself and are determined enough to go after what you want, anything is possible. My recommendations are: “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz (book); “The Power of Broke” by Daymond John (book); and “AlphaGo” (documentary) which highlights the importance of artificial intelligence and where the future is going.
Nicole on a recent trip to Colorado.
- What advice do you have for someone starting a career in the cybersecurity industry?
Technology is constantly evolving and it’s impossible to know everything, unless you’re Bill Gates. So take each day at a time and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Everyone needs help at some point, even Bill Gates. - What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?
Yosemite National Park, hiking up one of the waterfalls and swimming in a pool overlooking the forest was by far one of the most breathtaking experiences I’ve ever had. - Why should clients choose BARR? What’s different about our approach?
Clients should choose BARR because of the values we provide and live by day in and day out: transparency, unparalleled support, inclusiveness, future readiness, and simplicity. From day one, you will see these are not just buzzwords created by the leadership team to grab your attention. They are our fundamental building blocks and core principles that make BARR uniquely different from its competitors. - What inspires you—in your career and/or personally?
Myself 10 years from now.
Dan Mathewson
- What excites you about where the industry is going?
The importance of keeping customer data secure and confidential is becoming more and more important, and because of this I am very excited to see the growth potential that exists within this industry.
Dan’s dog, Marvin.
- What is the most important personal attribute you bring to BARR?
My drive to perform well. I’ve always been one to underpromise and overdeliver. - What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?
Italy. I saw Rome, Venice, Florence, and a handful of small villages. Along the way, drove through Tuscany, drank some delicious wine, and ate a lot of pasta! - What is your favorite outdoor activity?
I love to fish! Walleye mostly, but I also enjoy bass, northern, and the occasional musky. - Do you have any pets?
My wife and I have a 16-week-old goldendoodle puppy named Marvin. He’s adorable!
Christine Falk
- What is the most important personal attribute you bring to BARR?
My positive attitude. I’ve always been able to bring a positive outlook to my team. I think it’s important to start each day with a positive outlook.
Christine’s dog, Lola.
- What inspires you?
My family, especially my two little boys. Though I have a long way to go until they leave the nest, I am so proud of their growth, how quickly they learn, and the kindness in their hearts. They inspire me every single day. - Do you have any pets?
We adopted a three-legged yellow lab from an animal shelter seven years ago. She is faster than any four-legged friend I’ve ever met. - What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been or favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot involves a beach. I love being in the sun and exploring outdoors. One of my favorite places to visit is Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. It’s a spot my family and I have been visiting since I was born. It brings back so many wonderful memories growing up and I absolutely love taking our boys there so they can create those same kinds of special memories. - What are you most excited about for BARR’s future?
I’m excited about BARR’s growth. With our knowledge and approachability, the opportunities are endless.
Interested in joining the BARR team, too? Check out our open positions.