Our "Life at Fortinet" blog series features Q&As with our team members from around the globe. Through these conversations, we shed light on the various career pathways that individuals can take in the field of cybersecurity.

We recently chatted with Adrian Costa, Fortinet's technologies marketing manager for Latin America and Canada. We learned why he thinks Fortinet is a great place to work, how he feels about his role at the company, and what he believes is unique about Fortinet's culture, which is built upon three core values: teamwork, innovation, and openness.

Can you briefly describe your work experience and career at Fortinet?

I have been working at Fortinet for almost seven years now. I started as the field marketing manager for SOLA East before taking on a new role focusing on aligning Fortinet's various technologies while adapting global strategies.

My diverse background, which includes roles as a pre-sales engineer, salesperson, and marketing manager, allows me to blend technical expertise with the creative freedom that Fortinet provides. This unique combination has enabled me to create innovative campaigns.

What are some common misconceptions about working in cybersecurity?  

One common misconception is that you need to be a hacker or a cybersecurity genius to work in this field. While these skills are certainly valuable, people often overlook the importance of understanding customer needs and the business context and articulating the right solutions. It's not just about technical expertise-it's about listening to and addressing the broader challenges that customers face. Every role has its own specialty, and it's the collaboration between technical and business experts that drives success.

What skills do you draw on most in your role?

The key skill I leverage is my ability to understand thewhybehind the solutions we offer-why customers need them and how they address their specific needs. Beyond technical knowledge, creativity is one of my main strengths. I often use every day analogies to simplify complex cybersecurity concepts, making them relatable. This, coupled with a more human approach to communication, has contributed to the success of several initiatives.

Looking beyond technical skills, what people skills or qualities do you believe are crucial for success in cybersecurity roles?

Empathy and effective communication are crucial. Understanding the perspectives and needs of colleagues, customers, and partners is essential. Success in this field requires teamwork and collaboration across diverse teams. Being able to synchronize different personalities and specialties to achieve shared goals is what drives many of our successful initiatives.

How does your work contribute to Fortinet's core values of innovation, teamwork, and openness?

My role is deeply aligned with these values. Innovation comes from combining my technical background with creative freedom to deliver unique campaigns. Teamwork is central. I collaborate with different teams, ensuring alignment and support across various projects. Fortinet's open culture enables us to share ideas freely, fostering a creative environment where unconventional approaches are welcomed.

What do you like about Fortinet's culture?

One of the things I appreciate the most is how the "FortiFamily" culture has been preserved despite our tremendous growth. When I joined in 2018, there were fewer than 300 people across Latin America. Now, there are many more, yet the camaraderie remains strong. The lack of strict hierarchies and the freedom to innovate are what I value most.

What's unique about working at Fortinet?

The creative freedom to explore and execute new ideas. Being able to bring unconventional elements into the cybersecurity world, whether through music, sports, or other industries, keeps me motivated and inspired.

Ready to join a world leader in cybersecurity? Explore exciting career opportunities with Fortinet and become part of a team that's shaping the future of digital security. Discover open roles and apply today!