RBC takes a global approach to cyber defense

In an increasingly complex digital world, cyber security is an always-on focus for most organizations, including RBC. Over the past few years, we have seen both the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks increase, thanks in large part to AI and automation.

In fact, cyberattacks have become a big business, which could cost global companies more than (USD) $10 trillion globally by the end of 2025^[i]. To bolster its response, RBC has a growing team of cyber security experts that manage and mitigate cyber incidents, helping to protect RBC’s information assets and supporting business continuity during and after a cyber crisis.

A key group within RBC’s Global Security team – the Security Operations Centre (SOC) --- is a 40-person team of experts providing RBC with a holistic view on cyber security. Currently, RBC’s primary Global SOC sits in Toronto, with regional SOCs in Vancouver, the US and London, United Kingdom. Erin Faulkner and Brandon Wittet are members of the SOC and work with partners across the organization to protect the bank and our clients from cyber threats.

Now with almost one year under his belt at RBC, Vancouver-based Brandon describes his role as similar to a first responder in the medical world, except for cyber: “A potential negative impact has been identified, and it’s our responsibility to be the first ones on the scene and go through the motions of understanding the who, what, why, when and where, and ultimately, remediate the incident.”

Though based out of Vancouver, Brandon has always felt very integrated with the larger RBC team:

“I think a lot of the credit goes to the leadership team in Toronto,” he says. “They do a fantastic job promoting an environment where communication between teams and team members is encouraged, regardless of where you’re located. Even though some of us have never met many of our team members in person, it still feels like we’re all close friends.”

Erin, who leads the SOC from Toronto, echoes Brandon’s sentiment of inclusion:

“We’re trying to integrate our new staff as much as possible,” she says.  “Regardless of time zone, our team members need our attention, and we need to get to know them so we can understand what's important to them in their own career paths.”

And while trying to lead a global team, Erin explains that the main approach is rescheduling some key meetings to a time zone that's more inclusive: “Expanding our collaboration tools is an easy way to keep people connected in real time. We've also seen our leadership visit the Vancouver location a few times to introduce themselves, spend some time with the team or take them out for lunch or drinks and we know our team really appreciates that. Again, it's about making sure everyone feels included and part of the larger team, regardless of where they are based.”