In a world where digital threats are evolving daily, cybersecurity is more important than ever. We sat down with MetLife Chief Information Security Officer, Dan Antilley, whose passion for protecting against threats and developing talent shines through in everything he does. In this Q&A, Dan will introduce us to the latest trends and technologies transforming the cybersecurity landscape, and how they’re opening doors to new and exciting career paths. He will also share his take on the must-have skills for anyone looking to step into the cybersecurity space. Let’s get started!
Q: What motivated you to pursue a career in cyber, and how has your perspective on the field evolved over time?
A: Like many people, I didn’t initially set out to build a career in cybersecurity – it just happened. Looking back, though, I couldn’t imagine being in a field more suited to my personality. I’ve always been a protector, whether it was when I coached basketball or now as I raise my family. I’ve always had this instinct to protect the people and things around me, and that’s exactly what I get to do every day at work.
Our field is dynamic, and always evolving, which results in endless opportunities to grow and learn from one another. One way I do that is by staying actively engaged with the cyber community. I’ve had the honor of partnering with the National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance and the Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center. It is great seeing the community building and leadership opportunities that have become available. The threats we face are so different from when I first started, which makes it an exciting place to be. Every day brings a new challenge, and I find that incredibly fulfilling.
Q: Let’s dig into that more. How have the threats changed, and how is technology reshaping the field of cybersecurity?
A: In the past, cybersecurity threats were more about wide-net attacks, like phishing attempts to break into big systems. Things have now become much more personal. You’ve probably experienced this yourself—maybe you received a LinkedIn invite “from your boss” or a text message “from a friend” asking for some sensitive information making it hard to tell if it’s a real request or an attack. These attackers today know exactly how to play on emotional cues, which makes their tactics even more convincing.
As cyber professionals, these evolving threats have resulted in growth opportunities to leverage cutting-edge tools and innovations to stay ahead. Artificial intelligence, for example, has been a game changer in our field, especially when it comes to automation and boosting efficiency. But I can’t give away all the secrets here! If you want to know more, you’ll have to come join my team.
Q: Well, this is a great segue as the next topic is related to careers in cyber! In your opinion, what skills and qualities are most important to have to be successful in the field, and why would someone want to join your team?
A: I like this question because mentoring has been a big part of my career. One year, I directly mentored approximately 50 people, and through that, I’ve learned that the individuals who really thrive in cybersecurity are the ones who love to create, are driven, and have a constant desire to learn. Collaboration is also important. Our job is to protect, which means we need to stay hyper-aware, vigilant, and a bit skeptical at all times. I always remind my team to stay focused, double check everything, and most importantly, trust their gut.
Our team here at MetLife is dynamic and filled with brilliant minds. We offer a lot of opportunities for growth, whether you want to expand your expertise horizontally across different disciplines, grow vertically, or are stepping into the cyber space for the first time. It’s a rewarding and fun environment where we make sure you have the right tools to succeed. At MetLife, we’re all committed to the company purpose: Always with you, building a more confident future. Our role in that is crucial—we're protecting our customers and the company on a global scale. It can be rare for our work to feel that closely aligned, making MetLife a special place to be.
Q: Last question for you, Dan. For those interested in joining MetLife, why work here?
A: MetLife has been around for over 150 years. We are a noble company that has a great story and reputation, and we embrace technology as a transformational tool to support our customers and employees globally. While the innovation and stability were exciting to me, it was the company culture and conversations I experienced during my interview process that ultimately won me over. I remember calling my wife that day and telling her that this was the first time in my career where I wanted a job. As a leader, I am passionate about transparency and enabling others to learn, grow, and succeed. MetLife has the tools, resources, and culture supporting that. It’s rewarding to work for a company whose purpose aligns with my personal value of wanting to do right and protect others around me.
Dan leads cybersecurity efforts for MetLife’s mission of building a more confident future for customers worldwide. Interested in learning more about this dynamic team? Head here to explore current openings.
