Summit Speakers
Ryan Saunders, Chief Information Security Officer, RMIT University
As Chief Information Security Officer at RMIT University, Ryan leads the protection of the institution’s digital infrastructure, safeguarding the trust of our staff, students, alumni and industry partners. With over three years in this role and more than 18 years’ experience in information security and risk, Ryan brings deep expertise in Identity and Access Management programme management, cyber strategy development, auditing, IT security assessments, and people leadership to drive robust security operations and compliance.
Ryan’s work focuses on embedding secure-by-design practices, modernising security capabilities and building high-performing, multidisciplinary teams. Ryan is committed to growing a diverse cyber workforce through internship programmes and strategic partnerships, ensuring our approaches align with regulatory obligations and organisational priorities. Guided by a pragmatic balance of cost and risk, Ryan aims to deliver security outcomes that not only protect the university but also enable innovation and continuous improvement.
Craig Costello, Professor of Computer Science, Queensland University of Technology
Craig Costello is a Professor of Computer Science at QUT and one of Australia's leading experts in post-quantum cryptography. After completing his PhD in mathematics at QUT, he held research positions in Europe and the United States before spending more than 12 years at Microsoft Research in Seattle, where he became a Principal Researcher.
Craig's research focuses on the cryptographic technologies that secure the internet, with a particular emphasis on preparing for the security challenges posed by quantum computers. His work has influenced international cryptographic standards and has been deployed in real-world systems worldwide.
Today, Craig leads research at QUT on post-quantum cryptography, quantum cryptanalysis, and advanced privacy technologies. He is passionate about helping organisations understand the opportunities and risks emerging at the intersection of cybersecurity, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence.
Fiona Collie, Cyber Awareness and Outreach Manager, Monash University
In her role, Fiona leads initiatives focused on improving cybersecurity culture and awareness across the university community. In addition, Fiona is part of the Security, Information and Trust planning group and is a committee member for the national Cross Link project to optimise and streamline solutions for data linkage in clinical registries.
Emily Woodhams, Cybersecurity Engagement Manager, University of Melbourne
Emily leads the development and delivery of a university‑wide cybersecurity engagement and awareness program, focused on driving positive security behaviours across staff, students, contractors, and partners. Emily is responsible for shaping cybersecurity communication strategies, delivering targeted engagement initiatives, fostering a strong cybersecurity culture across a diverse community and ensuring alignment with the University’s risk management, policy, and compliance frameworks. Through strategic engagement and clear communication, Emily helps strengthen the University’s resilience to cyber threats.
Brendan Walker-Munro, Associate Professor (Law), Faculty of Business & the Arts, Southern Cross University
Brendan's focus is on "research security", the use of law and policy to protect university research from national security threats such as espionage, foreign interference, hacking, and technology transfer. He also researches other aspects at the intersection of national security law and higher education, such as research funding, privacy, and digital security.
Mandy Turner, Adjunct Lecturer in Cyber Criminology, The University of Queensland
A multi-award-winning cyber security and cybercrime specialist, author, artist, and senior cybersecurity leader with extensive experience in cyber security strategy, cybercrime intelligence, and security operations. Mandy has led whole of business cyber security programmes and focuses on understanding threat actor behaviours and motivations to develop flexible approaches to emerging threats. She has authored books on cybercrime, writes a regular column for Women in Security Magazine, and actively mentors and supports those entering or developing skills in cybersecurity to help future-proof the industry. Mandy is a passionate advocate for diversity in all its form knowing it not only supports inclusion, but also drives innovation, enabling stronger solutions to the complex challenges facing our world.
Rachel Mansson, Associate Director, Cybersecurity Threat Intelligence, Deakin University
An accomplished cyber security leader, Rachel brings a unique blend of intelligence‑led defence and human‑centric security, with a strong track record across risk management, behaviour change, and culture uplift. From delivering actionable threat insights to shaping security awareness and behaviour programs, Rachel is passionate about empowering people and organisations to navigate an increasingly complex cyber landscape with confidence. Her career spans diverse initiatives across cyber security, research, student learning, infrastructure, and digital networks, giving her a broad perspective on managing risk in complex environments. Rachel is a strong advocate for practical, people‑focused security that drives real‑world outcomes and sustainable resilience.
Simon Moss, University Professor and Organisational Psychologist, Monash University
Simon Moss is a university professor and organisational psychologist. He has published 10 books and over 120 scientific papers, primarily on how the policies and practices of organisations and governments affect the wellbeing, productivity, and integrity of individuals. For example, he is the author of “The negative side of positive thinking”, “Where should I work”, and “Emotional Intelligence: Journey to the Source”. More recently, he founded radical humility: a movement that helps researchers, practitioners, leaders, and the general public nullify the adverse impacts of narcissism on workplaces and society.
Sophia Moss, Project Manager
Sophia Moss is an experienced project manager, research manager, and operations manager. In Australia, she has assumed leadership and management positions in many sectors, including the Northern Territory Government, Australian Universities, and the emergency services. In the United States, she managed IT projects and community projects with many large organisations, including City University of Seattle, University of Washington, Amazon, and Microsoft.
James Kay, Associate Director-General of Standards, Technical Advice & Research, Australian Signals Directorate
James Kay has previously served as Assistant Director-General for Incident Management at the Australian Signals Directorate’s (ASD) Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), and substantively the Director of the National Cyber Watch Office – the front door for all cyber security incidents reported to ASD.
James joined ASD in 2021 after a career in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He conducted postings to Afghanistan (2019-2020) as a First Secretary (Political), and the Philippines (2017-2018) as a Second Secretary (Political/Counter Terrorism).
James holds a Bachelor of International Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts both from the University of Adelaide.