Bonnie Butlin, also known around the world as “Canada’s First Lady of Security” is the executive director of the Security Partners’ Forum (SPF), a first-of-its-kind agile international network of security professionals, bridging all domains and disciplines of security.

What makes you a Risky Woman?

I operate in the risk management field - specifically the security and resilience domains of risk management. I am fortunate to be recognized worldwide as a champion for women in the risk management space. For example as a Global Advisory Council member of the Institute of Strategic Risk Management (ISRM), I work alongside other risk professionals across the globe, including women to help contribute to the risk management profession.

Name your top 3 achievements

1. Successfully building a global agile network of security professionals;
2. Successful launch of numerous women in security award initiatives across the globe; and
3. Being published in a peer reviewed journal, thus contributing to the academic and professional body of knowledge.

What is the biggest risk you’ve taken in your career?

The biggest risk I have taken in my career to date was going back to university to get my Masters degree and re-train in a different area of security after raising my three children.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

People are often surprised as to how mission-focused and approachable I am.

What is the best quality for successful leaders in Risk?

I would say the best quality for successful leaders in risk is having the ability to see both risks and opportunities from numerous perspectives (for example from various gender perspectives).