New Forensic IT executive GM eyes cyber resilience

In his new role, Chris Hatfield sees several opportunities for the partner in the cybersecurity market.

Forensic IT new executive general manager Chris Hatfield sees cyber resilience as an opportunity for the partner.

Speaking to CRN Australia, Hatfield noted that there are “significant opportunities” for the country to lift its game when it comes to cyber resilience.

“Rather than simply reacting to incidents as they arise, organisations can benefit from applying greater rigour to their preventative strategies,” he said.

“By adopting a forensic lens to assess and strengthen existing preventative measures, companies can ensure their defences are not only more robust but also more defensible under scrutiny and better aligned with their unique business risks.

“This proactive approach positions organisations to withstand regulatory, legal, and reputational challenges with greater confidence,” he added.

One of the challenges facing Australian organisations is the cyber incidents won’t happen to us mindset, Hatfield explained.

Hatfield noted that this attitude often results in “insufficient investment” to adequately defend against both internal and external threats.

“The reality is, it doesn’t take a highly sophisticated external attack to cause substantial damage,” he said.

“Sometimes, all it takes is a single rogue employee acting out of self-interest or for the benefit of a prospective employer to inflict serious, and sometimes irreparable, harm.

“Triggering regulatory breaches, loss of sovereign control, and long-term reputational damage before the organisation is even aware an incident has occurred.”

New executive general manager

In his new role, he will be leading Forensic IT's national practice.

The Forensic IT business applies a forensic standard of analysis across the full lifecycle of adverse technology events, from prevention and readiness through to identification, response, and investigation.

In addition to existing services lines within the Forensic IT business, Hatfield’s remit also includes increased alignment with Infotrust's broader cyber security operations including offensive security and security operation centres.

“Cyber incidents require a broader response that accounts for governance and external scrutiny. Cyber incidents today are not confined to IT teams,” he explained.

“They involve executive leadership, legal counsel, regulators and, in many cases, the courts. Organisations need forensic capabilities that are technically rigorous, legally defensible and aligned with executive decision-making.”

Previously, he was the managing director at FTI Consulting, Hatfield will be applying his global experience to assist the IT Forensic team and local Australian clients.

He has the ability to understand the potential impact of adverse events, and provide a service that is proportionate to their business needs and risk posture. This ensures clients receive tailored advice and support that aligns with their unique operational risks, ultimately strengthening their cyber resilience and confidence in the face of ongoing threats.

Forensic IT is a part of cyber security and technology services provider, Infotrust.