By: Sheldon McKell

As businesses and organizations navigate the intricate web of cyber threats, the need for visionary leaders in digital defense has never been more pressing. Nowadays, almost every company needs a cybersecurity department to protect its data from hackers and scammers.

It was a pleasure to sit down with Kyle Hanslovan, a highly acclaimed expert in cybersecurity and cyber warfare who was recently honored as Ernst & Young’s “2024 Entrepreneur of the Year.” His energy and reputation are unparalleled in the field of cybersecurity. Starting his career as a government hacker for the NSA, he now stands as Co-Founder and CEO of Huntress. Throughout his career, Hanslovan is best known for his uncanny ability to stay ahead of cyber threats.

Even when asked what he meant by never meeting a hacker he couldn’t outhack, Hanslovan explains that it’s less about the individual and more about the mindset. According to him, cybersecurity is like a game of chess where every move is critical. It’s not about brute force but about strategy, anticipation, and adaptability. During his career, he hasn’t met a challenge yet where he couldn’t find a solution—whether it’s outmaneuvering an attacker or building a system they can’t penetrate.

From Humble Beginnings to a $200M Venture

Hanslovan’s success story currently includes raising $300M+ of venture capital and creating a $1.56 B tech empire that protects the heart and soul of the global economy: small and mid-sized businesses. It’s the Cinderella story of modern business, as Huntress started out of the gate with far less. Its fearless leader began with a vision and a small team. The resources were minimal—just some laptops, 24/7 coffee, and a no-quit belief that they could make a mark on this industry. Hanslovan leveraged open-source tools and the collective expertise of his team to build something from nothing. This is why a grassroots mentality is still very much alive at Huntress today.

Developing a Culture of Learning and Resilience

Hanslovan’s leadership philosophy at Huntress is a beacon of inspiration. He fosters a culture of learning from failure, where every setback is a stepping stone to success. This approach not only encourages creativity but also instills a sense of courage in the team, making them unafraid to take risks or admit their lack of knowledge. It’s about more than having all the answers. Instead, it’s about creating and honoring an environment where curiosity leads to progress.

Innovation at the crossroads of technology and culture

As technology and culture become more linked, Hanslovan sees tremendous cybersecurity innovation opportunities. He believes studying human behavior and its intersections with technology presents significant opportunities. Security is more than just protecting computers; it’s also about understanding who uses them and who wants to commit crimes using them. We require solutions as adaptable and nuanced as the problems we confront.

Photo Courtesy: Kyle Hanslovan

AI: Fear or Opportunity?

Hanslovan’s perspective on AI in cybersecurity is both cautionary and optimistic. He envisions a future where AI is deeply integrated into every aspect of business operations, identifying and mitigating threats in real time. He doesn’t fear AI; he respects its potential. If used wisely, AI can revolutionize security measures. However, he also warns of its potential misuse, especially in situations like the upcoming election, where misinformation can have profound effects.

Cyber Warfare and the Status of Digital Conflict

Hanslovan believes that collective defense methods, which involve multiple entities working together to defend against cyber threats, will become more critical. His position at the NSA gives him a unique perspective on modern cyber warfare. He thinks that while we are not in World War III, we are experiencing ongoing cyber combat. States constantly test each other’s defenses, while non-state entities add further complexity. He said, “The battlefield has moved from land, sea, and air to cyberspace, and the rules of engagement are still being developed.”

What keeps Kyle Hanslovan up at night?

Despite his confidence and track record, the unpredictable nature of human behavior terrifies him the most about cybersecurity. He stated, “You can put up the strongest defenses, but all it takes is one person clicking on the wrong link. Social engineering is still an effective weapon for attackers, and no amount of technology will eliminate the risk.”

A Rockstar’s Philosophy on Leadership and Success

Many see Hanslovan as a rockstar in his field—a title he approaches with humility. He thinks the perception comes from transparency, passion, and some showmanship. He is clearly unafraid to be himself and believes in leading by example. His personal style and belief system are centered on integrity, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. He tries to instill these values in everything, both in and out of the office.

Balancing Work and Life in This High-Stakes World

Balancing the demands of cybersecurity leadership with personal life is not easy, but Hanslovan keeps a disciplined routine. He starts his day early with quiet reflection—usually a workout or a walk. He believes it’s crucial to clear his mind before diving into the chaos. He makes time for his family throughout the day, even if it’s just a quick call or a hug passing through the doorways of his home office. He further stated, “Staying grounded in what really matters is what keeps me sane amidst all the noise.”

The Key Traits of a Modern Cyber Leader

The cyber landscape is a dynamic battleground with adversaries constantly adapting and evolving. Regarding leadership in today’s cybersecurity landscape, Hanslovan emphasizes adaptability, empathy, and a solid ethical compass. Upholding ethical standards in decision-making ensures that the pursuit of security does not compromise the organization’s values or legal standing. He says, “The landscape is always changing, and a good leader needs to be able to change with it. But beyond that, understanding your team and your adversaries is key. Empathy allows you to predict and prepare for user errors and malicious actions.” 

The Future of Huntress and Beyond 

Cybersecurity leaders serve as custodians of our valuable assets. As Huntress continues to grow, Hanslovan is focused on what’s next. He wants to expand his reach and enhance his impact. Since cybersecurity is a global concern, he aims to protect as many people as possible. He added, “The journey is far from over, and I’m excited about what’s to come.”

To summarize, Kyle Hanslovan is not just a pathfinder in the world of cybersecurity. More importantly, he is a leader who understands the immediate threats we face and has the vision to anticipate their fallout. His company has skyrocketed to the height of a truly multi-billion-dollar market, and its success—like all the great entrepreneurial success stories—has everything to do with powerful motivations and smart, creative decisions made by Hanslovan and a team of top-notch players to make the digital world a safer place for all.

Published By: Aize Perez