Mariya Novakova
Ask me about
- How did I get into cyber security
- How to prepare for a job interview
- What a day in my role looks like
About me
- International Experience
If someone had told me in high school where I’d end up, I would have laughed. I was born in Bulgaria (Eastern Europe), and my childhood was marked by very rough economic and political conditions in the country. At school I was very diligent and always striving to do well academically. I attended a specialised high school with major in Maths, Physics and Information Technology, then went on to study a computer engineering degree at university. I got married while at university and had my first baby at the age of 24.
I immigrated to Sydney in late 2013 with my husband and child, while 6 months pregnant with my second baby, and with no job or house. When my baby was nearly one, I enrolled in an advanced diploma course (IT Business Analysis) at TAFE NSW, while my husband was also studying and working full time. Soon after graduating with distinction, I started working full time. After 8 years in Sydney, we moved to Brisbane in 2021 and went through all the pleasantries that Covid and closed borders presented. Fast forward, I absolutely love the lifestyle we have established for ourselves.
About my role
- Analytical
- Creative
- Curious
I work with teams across various departments and countries to help them introduce new technologies securely in some of the world’s largest mining and industrial operations. My role involves leading cyber security risk assessments, investigating complex risks, and providing practical advice that enables innovation while protecting critical systems and information.
My job combines technology, problem-solving, communication and leadership. I investigate complex challenges, advise senior decision-makers, and work with people from many different backgrounds, from software specialists and engineers to operational teams and business leaders.
What excites me most about this career is the opportunity to solve unique problems, continuously learn, and help shape the safe adoption of emerging technologies. No two days are the same, and the work has a tangible impact on how people and organisations operate.
Education
- Bachelor Degree in Computer Science
- Advanced Diploma in IT Business Analysis
- TOGAF Certified Professional
- Certified Information Security Manager
Subjects
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Digital Design/Information Technology
- English
- Geography
- Health and Human Development
- History
- Languages
Hobbies
- Cooking
- Pilates
- Reading
- Travel
Pets
- 1 Dog
15 year old me!!
My career journey
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Didn't get my first choice at university, went ahead with second choice
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Started my first job at a help desk for Coca Cola
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Immigrated to Australia
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A supportive manager steered and supported my career
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Moved to Brisbane and began working for Rio Tinto
My typical day
My employer
