Meet the speakers at this year’s Continuity Insights Management Conference, then click here to learn more about the 2023 event.
Christopher Duffy
Infinite Blue
What research did you do to prepare for this role?
I fell into it organically as a CIO of a 24×7 organization. DR was integrated in , and the BC was an organic extension. After that job, I ended up going to work for the BC/DR vendor I was using and decided to put everything I am into this.
What was your first “win” that made you confident that you were doing the right thing?
After a massive underground fire in the power conduit under the street that supplied out building, and our data center was in the basement (inherited decision). We were able to safely use our plans to evacuate and “keep the lights on”, no one externally ever knew we had a catastrophe.
How do you avoid being complacent in your role?
First, my customer wont let me. Second, its committing to lifelong learning, following trends, and looking for things that will have an adverse impact on companies.
How did you set yourself apart from others who wanted the same job?
That’s easy. Its my passion for the industry and desire to help others, complimented with being a “fixer”
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Hire people smarter than yourself.
What advice would you give to your younger self at the start of your career?
Stay the course. Start in a low position with a large strong accounting firm and work up, pay your dues.
What impresses you the most when you are considering hiring someone?
Entrepreneurial, can do spirit. This shows they can work outside of their job description.
How do you, your team or company define success?
Simple. Our customers succeed in their program, and they are elevated within their own organization (exposure to leadership)
What is the biggest challenge to achieving that success?
Taking a top down approach through policy and governance versus the typical bottom up, try my hardest.
To learn more about Christopher’s session and to view the full conference agenda, click here.
