For many, smart technology, time-saving applications and internet-powered tools have grown to become a regular facet of daily life. As consumers continue to explore the latest software the market has to offer, the cybersecurity industry is racing to keep up and protect users — and businesses — from potential risk.
Cybersecurity professionals are an integral part of a rising demand for protection from a variety of threats — ransomware attacks, phishing schemes, identity theft, etc. — that have evolved alongside every major technological advancement. Currently, the 2024 global cybersecurity market size sits at $268 billion according to data from Precedence Research, and it is expected to grow to $878 billion in 2034.
In other words, there will always be new areas of the technological landscape to secure and virtual fires to extinguish — but for Jessica Barr, a cybersecurity analyst ensuring safety and compliance at Discover, that variety is what makes the job exciting.
Built In Chicago spoke with Barr to understand her perspective on her role and why working in cybersecurity means having daily opportunities to grow your skills to face new challenges.
Discover is a direct banking and payment services company that helps customers reach a brighter financial future.
Why did you join Discover's cybersecurity team? What does a typical day look like for you?
I started my career in an entry-level role and soon transitioned to the cybersecurity team, drawn by the rapid growth in the field due to the rise of digital threats. News of frequent data breaches made it clear how vital cybersecurity is for both individuals and organizations. Joining the cybersecurity team allowed me to build expertise in safeguarding data and managing threats in a dynamic environment.
My typical day begins with a team meeting to review tasks and assist colleagues. I spend time addressing tickets, emails and audit requests — ensuring compliance or guiding others. Afterward, I get to dive into more engaging tasks, like testing new applications, refining processes or training teammates.
What makes Discover's approach to cybersecurity unique? What gets you most excited to get out of bed each day?
Our cybersecurity strategy stands out for its forward-thinking, proactive approach. Instead of reacting to incidents, we focus on continuous monitoring and staying ahead of the evolving threat landscape. We prioritize identifying potential vulnerabilities early, allowing us to address issues before they become critical. Alongside this, compliance is a top priority as we ensure strict adherence to all regulatory standards, minimizing risk for both the company and our customers.
What excites me most is the opportunity to learn something new every day. My daily commitment to personal growth enhances my expertise and directly benefits the organization by keeping our team innovative and well-informed. Staying curious and up to date helps us adapt to the fast-changing cybersecurity world and deliver top-notch protection.
“What excites me most is the opportunity to learn something new every day.”
How can someone accelerate their cybersecurity career at Discover?
Joining our team offers a blend of engaging challenges and innovation while tackling cybersecurity tasks that keep our customers’ data safe. Our workplace environment offers a healthy work-life balance, and our company culture emphasizes growing both personally and professionally.
You’ll be at the forefront of cybersecurity, developing your skills and thriving in a supportive, positive environment — all while making a real difference for the organization and our customers. Your contributions won’t just solve technical problems; they will have a lasting impact on the organization’s reputation and trust.
