Get to Know Cody Hewell, Senior Consultant, Cyber Risk Advisory

The BARR Advisory team continues to grow with the addition of a new senior consultant, cyber risk advisory: Cody Hewell. Atlanta-based Hewell brings cybersecurity and governance expertise to his role at BARR, guiding clients through the SOC and regulatory reporting journey. He brings leadership experience from roles at companies such as Global Payments, Inc., and Aprio, and is also a military veteran. 

Hewell earned his Master of Science in management information systems from Georgia State University’s acclaimed J. Mack Robinson College of Business, and his B.A. in political science and government from the University of Georgia. 

Let’s get to know more about him through a quick Q&A:

Q: What excites you about the future of the cybersecurity industry?

A: When I stepped onto the cybersecurity scene a few years ago, cybersecurity awareness was a low priority within many companies. Given the changing times we’re living in, with increased remote work and focus on the cloud, the cybersecurity industry is being taken more seriously and positioned with increased importance each day. It has been brought into the spotlight. Universities are also realizing the value it brings to the world at both business and personal levels. 

Q: What advice do you have for someone starting a career in the cybersecurity industry?

A: Don’t be overwhelmed. Remember that everyone makes mistakes, and no one is an expert at everything. Learn as much as possible about all the different aspects of cybersecurity, and listen to others who have been in the field for a while. Cybersecurity is a massive field, after all, with new pathways being carved out by the minute.

Q: What are some industry trends to watch for?

A: More regulation and guidance from government agencies, which will lead to more training and programs for students and college grads and overall more jobs in the industry, continuing the cycle of more awareness and a better, more secure world. I also think watching where AI goes will be fun, and will ultimately lead to better threat detection. 

Q: What do you consider the most important personal attribute you bring to your job? 

A: My commitment to getting things done in a timely manner. I really hate waiting on things!

Q: Favorite quote you’d like to share?

A: “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt

Q: What are a few go-to books or podcasts you recommend?

A: I really enjoy leadership books, autobiographies, and simply learning new information that can be applied to multiple facets of life. Some of my favorites currently are “The Dichotomy of Leadership” and “Leadership Strategy and Tactics,” along with the Cybersecurity Today podcast on Spotify.

Q: What gets you up in the morning or keeps you up at night?

A: I never like to go to bed with too many unfinished tasks, so I will happily stay awake later to finish them. I like starting my mornings quiet and calm.

Q: What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?

A: Easy—Glacier National Park in Montana.

Hewell’s beloved dog, Loretta.

Q: Do you have any pets? 

A: Yes! A rescue dog named Loretta. I cannot remember my life prior to her. And, yes, she’s named after the legendary country star Loretta Lynn.

Q: Favorite food?

A: I love Italian food. I stopped eating meat a while ago, which has been a big adjustment.

Q: What do you consider your biggest accomplishment?

A: It is a tie between completing six years in the U.S. Army and earning a master’s degree.

Q: What inspires you?

A: The belief to do right and always give a helping hand if you can.

Q: Finally, we have to ask, what attracted you to BARR Advisory?

A: BARR truly practices the partnership approach—finding the right approach for each client and streamlining compliance. I think clients notice the transparency BARR provides, and it creates an immediate sense of trust. 

Want to join Cody and make your mark at BARR? Explore our current job openings.