Meet Florin

What was your path to becoming a Networks/Cyber-Security – Executive Officer?

I graduated from a Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree in TU Dublin in 2022. I was a part-time student studying for four years, trying to balance my family life and evening lectures.

What does your role entail?

My role is really interesting and challenging. It includes keeping up to date with ICT trends, analysing suspicious activity and training the rest of the organisation on security precautions. Some of the main areas that I have responsibility for include:

• Evaluating and assessing exposure to current Security threats against An Garda Síochána infrastructure
• Monitoring of network incidents and analysis of suspicious activity
• Identifying and addressing any potential weaknesses that might exist within the infrastructure of the organisation

What opportunities has this role provided you with?

Ever since I joined AGS, the support I received from my colleagues has been excellent. The ICT department was good at showing me the ropes and giving me a good understanding of An Garda Síochána key objectives. AGS has a good support structure for further development and keeping up to date with new technologies. This includes offering ongoing development of staff knowledge and skills for the benefit of both the individual and the organisation.

What were your reasons for applying for a Cyber Security Analyst role in the Public Sector?

Naturally, when the campaign for ICT Networks/Cybersecurity was published on the Public Jobs website, I jumped at the opportunity of joining a large organisation where the role of a Cyber Security analyst is more crucial than ever in today’s data-driven environment.

Would you recommend a career in the Public Sector?

My reasons for applying for an ICT role in the Civil Service was led by my desire to gain experience working in a large organisation, especially something related to my field of study, and to avail myself of the opportunities for career advancement.

I always thought of my ideal job as providing stability, flexibility, and career progression and using my skills and knowledge to contribute to society. In accepting my 'starter job' with the Civil Service in the An Garda Síochána, I didn't realise that it would provide all of these – and more.