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How we’re #InspiringInclusion at McAfee for International Women’s Day 2024

International Women’s Day 2024’s theme, #InspireInclusion, reminds us that genuine change requires going beyond individual actions. It’s about fostering an environment where all women feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. At McAfee, we believe this starts with inspiring inclusion across every aspect of our company culture.

While we’re proud of our strides – achieving global pay parity, expanding parental leave, and ensuring diverse hiring panels – we recognize the journey continues. This International Women’s Day, we’re not just celebrating our achievements, but inspiring others to join us in building a more inclusive future.

Here’s how we’re #InspiringInclusion at McAfee:

Actively challenge biases: We’re committed to fostering a culture of open dialogue and awareness, empowering everyone to call out and challenge unconscious biases in themselves and others.

Empower diverse voices: We actively seek out diverse perspectives and experiences, ensuring everyone feels valued and heard. We celebrate the unique contributions of every team member.

McAfee Communities (also known as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Creating safe spaces for open dialogue, fostering a sense of belonging, and amplifying diverse perspectives

Check out members from #TeamMcAfee striking the #InspireInclusion pose:

 

Join McAfee and millions of others around the world in celebrating International Women’s Day by sharing how you’ll #InspireInclusion.

Interested in finding out more about what we’re doing to drive meaningful change at McAfee? Check out our Impact Report

The post How we’re #InspiringInclusion at McAfee for International Women’s Day 2024 appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy with McAfee’s African Heritage Community

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King diligently dedicated his life to dismantling systemic racism affecting marginalized groups and leading a peaceful movement to promote equality for all Americans, irrespective of color and creed. He leaves behind a legacy of courage, strength, perseverance, and a life-long dedication to pursuing a fair and just world.

At McAfee, we recognize the power of diverse voices and the importance of creating a space where everyone feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to the table. We believe that our collective action, fuelled by Dr. King’s unwavering spirit, can make a difference in building a more inclusive and unified world.

On this day, we commemorate MLK by honoring the man behind the message of equality. Members of the McAfee African Heritage Community share their perspectives on how Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream lives on in their actions and aspirations, shaping their commitment to fostering hope, courage, and unity. ​​​​​​​

Jovohn, Product Marketing Manager

“I keep Martin Luther King’s dream alive by trying to embody the values of respect, empathy, and understanding in my daily life. Through genuine connections and a commitment to equality, I aim to contribute to a world where everyone is treated with dignity and fairness.

Martin Luther King inspires me to be a person who values compassion and inclusivity. His teachings encourage me to approach life with a focus on empathy, fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. I aspire to emulate his dedication to justice in both my personal and professional interactions.

I spread hope, courage, and unity byembracing collaboration and celebrating diversity in all aspects of my life. Whether it’s through uplifting conversations, supporting others, or simply being present for those around me, I strive to contribute positively to the collective spirit. In my interactions, I hope to inspire a sense of unity that echoes Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision for a harmonious and understanding community.”

 

Trevia, Talent Acquisition Operations Manager

“I keep Martin Luther’s King’s Dream Alive by speaking up for what I believe is right and moving against injustice, no matter what that looks like.

Martin Luther King Jr. inspires me to be kind. Every day, but especially Martin Luther King Day, is a lesson in kindness and love for one another.

I spread hope, courage, and unity by encouraging people to be their authentic selves, as it takes an immense amount of courage to show up as yourself, and no one else”

 

  

Taylor, People Experience Program Manager

I keep Martin Luther King’s dream alive by continuing to model values, principles, and empathy in my personal and professional live.
Martin Luther King inspires me to be a person who embodies true and meaningful values that have an intentional impact on those around me. I pride myself on having empathy for others, selfless, and others focused, ensuring that everyone knows and feels them as an individual matter.
I spread hope, courage, and unity by celebrating those of different backgrounds, perspectives, traditions, and beyond. This allows me to help create a space where people can be their authentic selves and express their emotions through vulnerability and storytelling.

 

 

The post Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy with McAfee’s African Heritage Community appeared first on McAfee Blog.

From Military Kid to Product Marketing: My McAfee Journey

Employee Spotlight: Meet Jovohn!

From military beginnings to mobile security champion, meet Jovohn, our passionate Product Marketer and MAHC President. Discover how his unique path led him to advocate for customer safety and drive innovation in McAfee’s mobile business.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at McAfee?  

“Absolutely! I’m a proud graduate of Indiana University, and my journey to the Product Marketing team at McAfee has been my own personal adventure. Growing up as a military kid, I thrived on change, adapting to new environments every few years. From Alaskan frostbite to New Mexico sand dunes, those experiences shaped my adaptability and perspective. I loved team sports and dabbled in music, even engineering for a Sony artist before my 15+ year marketing career!

Recently, I transitioned from McAfee’s Retention Marketing team to my new role in Product Marketing, where I’m navigating the dynamic world of McAfee’s mobile business. Developing strategic marketing initiatives is not just a job for me; it’s a creative adventure, and I’m excited to bring that energy to the team!

But my role goes beyond crafting campaigns. I play a part in ensuring our customers receive top-notch mobile security solutions, directly contributing to McAfee’s mission of protecting our connected world. Every day, I’m involved in understanding the competitive landscape, gathering feedback from our customers, and using those insights to help shape products that truly address their needs. It’s more than marketing; it’s advocating for our customers and giving them the tools to stay safe online, which is core to our work at McAfee.”

What sparked your passion for marketing?  

“Believe it or not, it all started with Eddie Murphy’s “Boomerang!” This captivating movie offered a glimpse into the advertising world, igniting my passion for marketing. It started in high school with direct marketing, where I was the youngest voice in a call center where we provided direct marketing sales for telecom comapnies. After college, I built a foundation in market research, fascinated by the power of data and its impact on marketing decisions. This fueled my drive to become a well-rounded, data-driven marketer.”

What’s your favorite thing about working at McAfee? 

“After six years at McAfee, I cherish the collaborative and innovative atmosphere. Working with talented colleagues who become friends makes it even better. Our dynamic environment, fueled by teamwork, respect, and a constant pursuit of excellence, drives collective success. Plus, contributing to McAfee’s mobile business growth is incredibly rewarding! Seeing the impact our work has on safeguarding millions of people worldwide fuels a deep sense of purpose and accomplishment. I’m excited to collaborate with my team, developing and executing strategies that drive meaningful results while enhancing the security and digital well-being of our mobile experiences. It’s an opportunity to not only push the boundaries of innovation but also make a tangible difference in the lives of millions.”

Tell us about MAHC and your role as president! 

“Leading MAHC (McAfee African Heritage Community) is an honor, aligning with my passion for fostering diverse communities. I’ve been involved for five years, taking a more active leadership role in 2022 to truly make a difference.

MAHC is more than just a professional hub; it’s a space for engaging conversations that go beyond work, fostering a culture of respect and understanding that McAfee values. We host talks with individuals from all walks of life, making it a cathartic platform not just for professional growth but also for personal connection and understanding. It’s a unique blend of networking and genuine camaraderie.”

Life outside of McAfee? 

“My greatest joy comes from being a husband and dad. Our family is always on the go, from after-school activities to sports! Weekends are all about fellowship, connecting with grandparents, and staying grounded in what truly matters. Personally, I love finding a good show to binge, gaming, and soaking up the outdoors in open spaces. It’s all about balance and bringing a fresh perspective to both my personal and professional life.”

And finally, what advice would you give for anyone considering a career in product marketing?  

“Despite my non-traditional product marketing background, I bring a diverse skill set from market research and advertising. For those considering a product marketing career, I would embrace a multidisciplinary approach. This allows for a well-rounded understanding of consumer behavior, market dynamics, and effective communication strategies. Success for today’s marketers often lies in the ability to draw insights from various experiences and apply them creatively in today’s dynamic market landscape.”


If you’re interested in the work Jovohn does or want to learn more about our career opportunities at McAfee, please visit our jobs page or  join our talent network to receive updates on career opportunities from McAfee.

The post From Military Kid to Product Marketing: My McAfee Journey appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Advice and Insights from some of McAfee’s brightest STEM leaders

This International Day of Women and Girls in Science, #TeamMcAfee is proud to join forces with the incredible McAfee Women in Security Community (WISE) to celebrate the achievements of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)!

WISE is a passionate group of women (and men!) who are dedicated to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all at McAfee, actively supporting and empowering the next generation of female STEM leaders.

“At WISE, we believe in nurturing a diverse and thriving community where every individual, regardless of gender, can unleash their potential. This International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we’re proud to celebrate the journeys of Arati, Sai, Defne, Richa, and Sowmya. Their stories are testaments to the transformative power of STEM, and their voices inspire young women to dream big and pursue their passion for science and technology.”Brenda, President of WISE 

Arati, Sai, Defne, Richa, and Sowmya illustrate the transformative power of STEM, the impact of McAfee and the WISE community on their journeys, and their insightful advice for young women embarking on their own STEM journeys.

Arati, Sr. Director, Engineering

“During my school days, I was a curious student who did well in Science and Maths. My classmates often sought my help understanding challenging concepts, which fueled my confidence and solidified my love for these fields. I thrived in stimulating environments where I could push boundaries and explore my full potential, and STEM offered exactly that. It was the perfect path to avoid succumbing to the boredom of routine and truly discover what I could achieve.
Being part of WISE has been instrumental in my STEM journey. It’s provided invaluable networking opportunities, connecting me with inspiring leaders both within and outside McAfee through summits and conferences. Having access to diverse role models, both male and female, fuelled my drive and ambition, giving me a wealth of knowledge and guidance to navigate my career path.
As a woman leader in the tech industry, I’ve witnessed many discussions about work-life balance, equal opportunities, and flexibility. While these are crucial conversations, I want to emphasize that there’s no substitute for the dedication and commitment required to excel in any field. For young women considering a career in STEM: Focus on continuous learning, fuel your passion for excellence, and cultivate a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Prioritize preparation, integrity, and striving for excellence over any sense of entitlement. When you put in the hard work, the opportunities, achievements, and empowerment will follow naturally. Remember, it’s important to “pay it forward” – mentor others and uplift the next generation of women in STEM!”

 

Sai: Sr. Technology & Innovation Researcher

“Right from my early school days I liked the evidence based scientific reasoning method – using experiments and observations to draw conclusions on a phenomenon. Naturally, pursuing a career in STEM was a path I couldn’t wait to explore. Today, as a Sr. Technology & Innovation Researcher at McAfee, I continue to delve into the unknown, but with the added benefit of having a supportive community and team around me.
Being part of a supportive community like WISE is invaluable. Navigating the corporate world can be challenging, and having a network of individuals who understand and can provide guidance makes a significant difference.
To young women considering a career in STEM: If science ignites your curiosity, follow that spark. There might be challenges along the way, but remember, the beauty of STEM lies in its constant evolution and endless possibilities. Embrace the journey, learn from supportive communities, and most importantly, never let anyone dim your passion for discovery.”

 

Defne: Director of Technology Services

“My path to STEM started with a simple spark: a love for solving problems. Growing up in a supportive environment, fueled by encouragement from parents and teachers, I was never afraid to ask questions and delve into the unknown. Fast forward to today, and I’m the Director of Technology Services at McAfee, leading a team that supports People Success and Legal systems.
McAfee has been instrumental in my growth. Here, I’ve tackled challenging programs that pushed my boundaries and provided invaluable learning experiences. I’ve also had great mentors at McAfee who have helped and supported me. And being part of the WISE community fosters a space for women to learn, collaborate, and empower each other.
To young women considering a career in STEM: Believe in yourself. Find mentors who inspire you, hone your math and science skills, and sharpen your problem-solving skills. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to speak up, stay curious and never stop learning – the possibilities in STEM are endless!”

 

 

Richa: Technical Program Manager

“Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a deep desire to contribute to the world, I embarked on my STEM journey fueled by my passion for science. Today, as a Technical Program Manager with over 10 years at McAfee, I’m proud to be part of a company that fosters innovation and empowers individuals to make a difference.
McAfee has been more than just a workplace; it’s a vibrant community where I’ve thrived. But the impact of the WISE community has been truly transformative. It’s provided invaluable support, fostered collaboration, and offered leadership development opportunities specifically for women at McAfee. Through WISE, I’ve connected with incredible individuals, celebrated our achievements, and found a sense of belonging and inclusion.
To young women considering a career in STEM: Don’t hesitate! This field empowers you to find your voice and gain invaluable experience. Embrace real-world projects; they’ll sharpen your thinking, unlock leadership potential, and open doors to endless learning opportunities. Remember, your unique perspective and contributions are essential in shaping the future of STEM.”

 

Sowmya: Data Governance Manager

“Growing up surrounded by academia, with a mother who rose to lead a women’s college, instilled in me a deep yearning for both career advancement and leadership. But it was the allure of logical problem-solving and the thrill of technology’s evolution, like witnessing the first Indian cell phone, that truly drew me to STEM. I embarked on a journey to unravel the intricacies of cellular and satellite communication systems with a bachelor’s in electronics and communications engineering, eager to play my part in shaping the future and being at the forefront of innovation and emerging technologies.
McAfee and the WISE community have played a pivotal role in my STEM career. As the leader of the India WISE group, I’ve had invaluable opportunities to engage with global leaders, foster stronger connections within the Indian WISE community, receive recognition, contribute to WISE publications, and establish trusted mentorship relationships. These experiences have not only empowered others but also provided me with a fulfilling outlet beyond my data governance role. Leading WISE has honed my soft skills, allowing me to influence, connect, and build confidence.
For young women considering a career in STEM remember: Failure persists only as long as fear dictates. Embrace lifelong learning and don’t shy away from changing domains or upskilling. My career, spanning 19+ years, has taken me from electronics engineer to data governance manager, requiring me to adapt and learn along the way. Take calculated risks, embrace change, and follow your instincts. The most transformative journeys often begin with a leap of faith. Remember, the investment in growth and change is always worthwhile.”

 

If you’re interested in the work that we do or want to learn more about our career opportunities at McAfee, please visit our jobs page or  join our talent network to receive updates on career opportunities from McAfee.

The post Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science appeared first on McAfee Blog.

From Workshops to Leader Panels: A Recap of Women’s History Month at McAfee

By: McAfee

From Workshops to Leader Panels: A Recap of Women’s History Month at McAfee

March is Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, and at McAfee, we partnered with McAfee Women in Cyber Security (WISE) Community to organize opportunities to learn from each other, find inspiration in shared experiences, and forge new connections.

Speaker events throughout the month opened the door for discussions about inclusion and equity. With awareness, we can make a difference. Check out what we’ve been up to.

We joined a panel discussion: A Leader’s Lens on Equity

Team McAfee joined a discussion with McAfee leaders. The conversation focused on the challenges women often face and issues of equity. Panelists shared their personal experiences and learning, and we explored how we can embrace and advance equity in our workplace. We discussed what it means to be truly inclusive and how we can continuously improve — we all have a part to play.

Here are just a few snippets from the panelists on how we can embrace equity:

“Embracing equity requires action – be an ally and give everyone at the table a voice.”

​​​​​​​- Jennifer Biry, Chief Financial Officer

“We all have a responsibility to identify inequality. Speak up and give everyone a chance to be successful.”

– Vonny Gamot, VP of Sales​​​​​​​

“It takes all of us. Be aware of behaviors that prevent voices from being heard and then address it with honestly.”

– Steve Grobman, Chief Technology Officer

“Not treating people equitably impacts people at their core.”

– Tina Muller, VP of Operations and Chief of Staff

“If we are to make dent in equity, it’s up to men and women to clear a path.”

– Jeff Ryan, Chief People Officer

“Our job doesn’t end with opportunities. It extends to providing the right support and tools.”

– Arati Sankhe, ​​​​​​​Sr Dir, Software Engineering


We listened to Jacqueline Tame’s Story on redefining roles and careers

Jacqueline Tame, Director of Government Affairs for PsiQuantum and senior advisor to the Chief Digital and AI Officer of the U.S. Department of Defense, joined Team McAfee to round-up the month. Jacqueline shared her personal and professional challenges, how she overcame them, and how they shaped her into the woman and professional she is today.

 

We tuned into a workshop rich with insights

Binda Bhati, a human and organizational psychologist with over 20 years of experience, led a workshop about unconscious minimizers. She provided amazing insights on how women can identify and redefine their identities, combat imposter syndrome, and be more confident in their abilities.

WISE Community workshop focused on Unconscious Minimizers with Binda Bhati

We continue to advance equity and inclusion

McAfee continues to celebrate our women and reinforce our company-wide commitment of fostering an inclusive place to work beyond Women’s History Month. We’re proud of our record of supporting women in the workplace — including four years of pay parity — and we’ll continue to do our part to create a culture where everyone feels valued and respected.

The post From Workshops to Leader Panels: A Recap of Women’s History Month at McAfee appeared first on McAfee Blog.

McAfee Teammates Share How They #EmbraceEquity This International Women’s Day

By: McAfee

International Women’s Day is a time for us to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women at McAfee and around the world. We reflect on progress, the work ahead, and how all of us can create a more equitable and inclusive world.

Collectively we can #EmbraceEquity and raise awareness of how equity leads to equality today and beyond.

See how Team McAfee embraces equity.

“As a father of two daughters, I want them to be able to embrace any opportunities they encounter and be successful at whatever they put they mind to. So, I embrace equity as it creates the best environment for everyone to succeed and simply, it’s just the right thing to do.” Andrew – Software Sales Senior Manager
“In 2023, I’m hopeful that equity will be embraced by all sectors of our society. When we collectively embrace equity, we create a more equal world that strives to be diverse, inclusive and fair.” Fiona, Accounting Senior Manager
“I embrace equity because I believe that everyone deserves to be treated fairly and have equal opportunities, regardless of their background, identity, or personal characteristics.” – Jeremy, Senior UC Engineer
“Embracing equity will help us advance into a future where we appreciate and value uniqueness of each other!” – Ambareen, Senior Manage, Content Operations & QA, DevOps
“I love the #EmbraceEquity theme as it demonstrates how the conversation has progressed to a point where we are having meaningful conversations about why equality is not enough. Equity-based solutions consider the experiences people have and with that more women can get what they need to succeed. This is a long-term solution and I’m excited for continuing this conversation going forward.” – Keegan, Senior Retail Channel Marketing Manager
“I embrace equity because it’s the right thing. But more than this, because without it there is no way we would be able to achieve our full potential.” – Aaron, VP Finance
“To me, #EmbracingEquity means to accept everyone’s differences, uniqueness, and backgrounds; the very essence that makes us each who we are.”  – Deb, Executive Assistant
“Change won’t happen unless we make it happen. I embrace equity because well it’s so clearly and fundamentally the right thing to do.” – Jared, VP Legal
“Embracing Equity means recognizing and supporting women across the globe, regardless of their background. We come together to empower one another, celebrate our achievements, and continue to build workplaces where ALL women can thrive.”  – Taylor, People Experience Program Manager
“I reaffirm my commitment to raise my voice to help others who need support to be heard, to enable them to succeed in their career and to lead. When we make room for diverse voices – we enrich the social fabric and through this, deepen our own perspectives.” – Natalia, Software Sales
“Gender equality is not just an issue for women to solve, it takes men and allies to lean in and truly remove those barriers. The more we can speak out, the more we can stand up and the more stories we can share the greater chance we have to truly inspire action. We can help create a more equitable world for everyone.” – Mike, Director of Global Transformation
“Humanity is diverse: we’re all unique individuals with our own passions, strengths and weaknesses. Equity is taking that uniqueness into account, so everyone has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.” – Elodie, Security Researcher

Join McAfee and millions of others around the world in celebrating International Women’s Day by sharing how you’ll #EmbraceEquity.

Interested in finding out more about what we’re doing to drive meaningful change at McAfee? Check out our Impact Report

The post McAfee Teammates Share How They #EmbraceEquity This International Women’s Day appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Know Your Superpower: Brenda’s McAfee Journey

Our How I Got Here series spotlights the stories of McAfee team members who have successfully grown their careers. Read more about Brenda’s McAfee’s journey, what a day in the McAfee sales team is like, and what her superpower is.​​​​​​​

Embracing opportunities

When I started my professional career, I was in technology but one of the few women there at the time. A colleague encouraged me to join the Canadian Information Processing Society as a volunteer. I was just exploring, but it turned out to be a career-builder.

After some time, I joined the Society’s board – my first board appointment ever. Suddenly I was in a leadership position and people were looking to me to make decisions, especially the CIOs and other executives who were on the board with me. I embraced the opportunity, and the expectations they had of me shaped the professional I am today.

A day in the McAfee Sales team

I knew about McAfee from some people who had already worked there and was intrigued by the premise of protecting families online. This was a chance to do what I loved at a bigger scale. And after my interviews, I knew it was the right move!

I am part of the North American Sales team that acquires customers through partnerships with big box retailers throughout North America. Together with our partners, we help customers see the value of McAfee.

In sales, you are constantly interacting with people. Each day is different: one moment I’m planning with partners on how to jointly protect their customers and families online. The next, I’m working will McAfee colleagues on sales strategies and business planning. My days are a steady mix of conference and video calls to collaborate, plan, and connect.

Every day, I get to work with so many great people. On top of that, we’re using our powers for good! Everyone, partners and colleagues alike, are all inspired by our ultimate mission: to protect people and their families. I keep going back to the people – but what a fabulous community of colleagues and partners we work with globally​! I also love the birds-eye view I get across all McAfee’s business units. In order to make good on the promises we make to our partners, I collaborate every day with so many key stakeholders across our entire business.

And now that my children are adults, I’m finding more time for exercise, like Peloton or F45 cross fit. I’m also taking piano classes, and I just wrapped a one-night-a-week downhill skiing program with one of my daughters!

​​​​​​​​​​​​​Flexibility, WISE and meeting global teams

McAfee lets you be flexible in getting your job done and taking on other projects. I am so grateful that I can help others through activities such as WISE (the McAfee Women In Security community). It’s important to do something outside of your day job because it makes your world bigger.

I work with some really great women on the WISE board. We are so supportive of each other. Board work is outside of our normal day jobs and sometimes we want to do things we haven’t done before. We put our heads together to figure it out quickly, divide up the work, and get it done!

I’ve also been very fortunate to be able to meet with many customers, partners, and colleagues face-to-face. This has allowed me to learn and grow, not only in my career but also in the Diversity and Inclusion space. The more you know about someone, the better partner and ally you can be.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​My superpower

Over my career, I’ve built up my superpower: building relationships. I choose to be positive and empathetic, which helps me develop strong working relationships. I also keep in touch with people I’ve worked with over the years, whether they are peers, customers, or younger professionals I’ve mentored.

The post Know Your Superpower: Brenda’s McAfee Journey appeared first on McAfee Blog.

For some, accounting is more than just spreadsheets! Vernon’s McAfee Journey

Vernon has been our Manager of Technical Accounting for more than two years, but that doesn’t mean he’s busy with spreadsheets and numbers all day.

My McAfee career journey story

It’s been an amazing ride so far. My team touches on several areas of responsibility, including financial period closing, financial reporting, and accounting for complex transactions.

​​​​​​​The most rewarding part of my role is definitely the variety and complexity – they really go hand-in-hand and I enjoy asking questions and figuring out the solutions, even when there is not always a textbook answer. I enjoy the challenge of working collectively with a team to find solutions by applying research and experience to a set of facts.

It’s also rewarding to be able to collaborate with auditors and other stakeholders who would be interested in the results.

Talent and collaboration – a rare combo

​​​​​​​My favorite thing about working at McAfee is the team. We have an amazing team. It’s full of really smart people. I’ve seen some companies try and find the best talent they can, but McAfee has just taken that to a whole different level. Everyone in their respective areas is really tuned in to the broader effort and we work well together. At McAfee, we enjoy both a high level of talent and collaborative effort. You don’t often find both in the same place. ​​​​​​​

My leadership philosophy

I really believe that each person brings certain strengths to the table, and they should be able to exercise those strengths to develop and expand their capabilities. Once those natural roles are established, it’s best to trust them to determine how best to perform in their roles and collaborate with the team in achieving results that add value to the broader group.

My advice for anyone looking to drive their career forward is

​​​​​​​First, expect the unexpected – consider each new experience an opportunity for personal growth.

Secondly, get involved in projects. If you have the opportunity to do something different or work with a cross-functional team, do it. It builds your own skill base, which opens the door for greater future opportunities and you get to meet people outside of your own department and develop relationships that may prove valuable over time.

The post For some, accounting is more than just spreadsheets! Vernon’s McAfee Journey appeared first on McAfee Blog.

#WSPD Creating hope through action with The Jordan Legacy

*TW: Mentions Suicide

Our passion for protecting people doesn’t stop with online safety. We deeply care for our people, their families and friends, and our communities.

To recognize World Suicide Prevention on Sept. 10 and help normalize and encourage conversations about mental health year-round, we recently hosted a discussion with McAfee colleagues and suicide prevention activist and owner of The Jordan Legacy, Steve Phillip. During this session Steve discussed his own personal lived experience of suicide and what he’s learned since establishing The Jordan Legacy when it comes to creating an open and safe environment for all.

Tell us a bit about The Jordan Legacy?

“I established The Jordan Legacy in 2020, following the suicide of my 34-year-old son, Jordan, in December 2019. It’s a registered not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC), whose mission is to raise awareness about suicide, open the conversation, help remove the stigma surrounding this topic and importantly, engage with communities and workplaces to discuss and identify practical solutions which will help prevent suicide.”

Why is World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) important?

“#WSPD is important in highlighting the biggest killer of men and women under the age of 35. According to the W.H.O, we lose 700,000 people globally to suicide every year – that’s one person every 45 seconds. On average, each suicide will impact 135 other people. This means that more than 95 million people are impacted by suicide annually! And while #WSPD is an important day to highlight, it’s fundamental that we recognize that suicide awareness needs to happen 365 days a year.”

Why are there stigmas surrounding mental health and suicide?

“There are several reasons why stigmas surrounding mental health and suicide exist. Generally, it’s due to a lack of understanding and people making assumptions – such as those with a mental health illness could be dangerous, unreliable or unemployable. Cultural backgrounds also play a part in creating stigma – certain cultures see mental illness and suicide as a taboo subject. The language used around mental health and suicide can also create stigma. In the UK, the act of attempting suicide was decriminalized in 1961 and yet the term ‘committed suicide’ is still frequently used, in the same way as commit murder or commit assault.”

How can we open-up a conversation and support someone who might be struggling with their mental health?

“It’s important to ask people how they are with a genuine intent to listen to and understand their reply. Most people who are struggling with their mental health don’t necessarily want you to fix them, but they do want to feel that they’re being listened to. Ask open-ended questions, such as ‘tell me how are you really feeling?’, ‘explain to me how this is impacting on you?’, ‘describe to me, how this is making you feel?”

How can we create hope through action – as family members, friends, and colleagues?

“We need to become a kinder and more compassionate society by recognizing that everyone can, at some point in their lives, struggle with poor mental health. Understanding this, would hopefully cause people to be less frustrated with others who don’t behave as they expect they might. We also need to check-in with family members, friends and colleagues more frequently and ask them ‘how are you really doing?”

How can we look after our own well-being?

“I am one of those individuals who probably works too hard and for too long! However, road cycling is a big escape for me and getting out in the fresh air in the countryside is a huge help. As is my part-time hobby of playing the drums – you can lose a lot of pent-up stress whilst playing along to Nirvana!! It’s so important that you make sure to look after yourself. So, my advice is to find out what works for you – whether that’s going for a walk, talking to a friend, speaking to a counsellor, joining a local group or seeing what resources are available to you through your company’s EAP. And remember most importantly to be kind to yourself.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 988 to get support. And remember, you are not alone.

Together we can prevent suicide 💛

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Embrace change! Chris’s McAfee Journey

In this career-journey series, Internal Audit Manager Chris shares his recent journey joining the McAfee finance team and why he is always learning something new in his role.

A typical day

I’m an Internal Audit Manager. Essentially, I work with my McAfee colleagues to understand the processes we follow and run tests to confirm everything is happening as it should.

Sometimes people find audits intimidating, but I do my best to reassure people that there are no hidden tricks and I respect their time. We’re just making sure things are going according to plan and we’re fulfilling our responsibilities.

In a typical day, I have three priorities: Dad, Work, Gym.

I’m normally up at 6 a.m. to cook breakfast for my son and myself, and then drop him off at school. His favorite is bacon and eggs! Since I work with people around the world, I catch up on emails and then review the day’s work and catch up with my team. From there, most of my day is spent in meetings with McAfee colleagues or external auditors.

Somewhere in the day I get in a one-hour workout. It’s tough to do sometimes, but I’d say I get to the gym 90% of the time. It’s a great reset for me: a time where I can focus on me and putting my body to the test.

And, of course, I pick up my son from school and have Dad Time! That’s really my day in repeat. It seems like the same thing but feels different every day. I’m always meeting new people and puzzling through different problems. Every day is a fresh challenge.

Joining McAfee

After interviewing with my future co-workers, I was excited to join the company. I thought, “Oh, this company is fun!” The culture seemed to be a place where not only do you get to come for work, but also have sense of community within it.

Also, it was a chance to work for a great boss. I knew she was a great boss because I worked for her before. She gives you the vision, then gives you the freedom to explore and get the work done. You really get to own your work. I appreciate that.​​

At McAfee, employees are a top priority. You’re not just a robot who has to work-work-work. It’s okay to have fun and take 10 minutes out to see how others are doing.

I like the way the company comes together to have contests and other fun activities. In Finance, we recently had a scavenger hunt with 70 people. It was great seeing the faces of people you’ve only talked to on the phone.

Another way we engage each other is with a recognition program called Bravo! You can write a letter to someone saying hey, I appreciate you. That makes you feel more valued as an employee.

I also like the quarterly updates we get from leaders. At other companies, I’ve seen that done once a year. It’s nice to hear from the CEO every quarter about what’s going on in the organization.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Learning and MAHC

There are two parts that make my role so rewarding. The first is I enjoy interacting with people and have a passion for learning. In this job, you hear so many cool stories, and I’m exposed to so many different areas and processes in across the business. There’s always something new to learn. It makes every day different.

Secondly, at McAfee I’m part of the McAfee African Heritage Community (MAHC). We get together and talk about things we want to share with other Community members and the rest of McAfee. I’ve met people I never would run into otherwise. That’s important to me as someone who’s fairly new to McAfee plus having worked remote all this time. It’s very cool to be part of a company that supports having communities.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Getting outside my comfort zone

Honestly, my job is always outside my comfort zone. There’s always a new problem to be solved. But I like that. The way I see it, if you’re comfortable, you aren’t growing. You need to do something you haven’t done before to move to the next level.

As an auditor, I’m always helping others understand the audit process and how to provide solid information, so the audit goes well.

​​​​​​​Communication is key

One of the most helpful skills I have developed during my career is communication. I need to establish a rapport quickly in my work so we can work well together. Everybody is different, right? Some are more direct, some are more indirect, and some people are more casual than others. You always need to adjust when you meet people. Good communication skills help prevent misunderstandings, which is especially important in a global company like McAfee with so many different cultures.

My advice to anyone looking to drive their career forward is…

Embrace change! Change is just another way to grow, learn, and realize potential you didn’t know you had. Look at it as an opportunity. Raise your hand up when problems arise and take on that tough problem. The person who fixes the problem is the person everyone remembers.

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Kicking off my Second Career: Gayatri’s McAfee Journey

Our How I Got Here series spotlights the stories of team members who have successfully grown their career here at McAfee. This journey features Gayatri who kicked off her second career at McAfee after leaving her role and returning to further education.

My McAfee Career Journey

McAfee truly kicked off my second career journey! I previously worked as a Software Engineer before I joined the McAfee Pre-sales Operations team as a summer intern as part of my business graduate program. One thing led to another, and I joined McAfee full-time as a Technical Project Analyst after I graduated later that year!

I’ve always believed in having a growth mindset, I embrace learning and looking for ways to build on my achievements. I’m proud to be part of an organization that nurtures this and helps you pursue your passions. For example, in 2019 I moved from a team focused on products and services for large businesses to a team focused on individual consumers. The needs of consumers versus big businesses are very different, so the business operations work supporting that focus are very different as well. It was a steep learning curve, but I felt supported every step of the way, and since then have grown so much!

Getting outside my comfort zone

Back in 2011, I was a software engineer spending my days doing programming and web development. While I was happy doing that, it was after working on many client-facing projects that I aspired to work at the intersection of business and technology. So, I left engineering and went to business school.

Taking a break from my full-time job to pursue formal business education in a new country was a big step outside my comfort zone. It was challenging to find balance, but the journey was worth it!

Teaming together to see the bigger picture

Today, I am a Sales Enablement and Operations Manager supporting sales teams all over the world. My focus areas include managing platforms and tools like Salesforce, Power BI, and SharePoint Sales Portal, as well as our department’s training and enablement programs – in other words, technology and professional development that help our team members be successful. Plus, I’m a key team member for an array of programs and projects that are pushing the business forward.​​​​​​​​

My work is highly collaborative, and I really enjoy working on projects with colleagues across different departments all over the world. I get to see the bigger picture, better understand the business context, and see the WHY behind the initiatives we drive.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

From business projects to being a part of the McAfee WISE (Women in Security) Board, it’s the people, culture, and opportunity that sets McAfee apart. I love working with the amazing people at McAfee!

Underlying it all: Working at McAfee matters because ultimately what we do helps protect lives of millions of people online.

My advice for anyone looking to drive their career forward is:

I have come to realize that the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of changing and growing. Develop a growth mindset to keep moving forward!

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Don’t Stop Learning! Jeremy’s McAfee Journey

Our How I Got Here series spotlights the stories of team members who have successfully grown their careers here at McAfee. This journey features Jeremy whose passion for learning has seen him grow his career in our Technology Services Team.

My McAfee career journey

In 2015, I started as a contract worker to help manage network cabling in McAfee’s buildings. While I was doing that, I was also asked to help manage our voice network (think of this as phones and conference lines) for North and South America. A year after working in both of those roles, I was asked to focus on voice network engineering. After a couple of years, I began training as an engineer for our audio-visual workspace, which helps bring efficiency and centralization to our conference room communications and collaboration tools. And today, I am a Unified Communications Engineer!

My other role within McAfee is Co-President of the McAfee Veterans Community. I absolutely love the community of veterans from around the globe and our community allies. It’s a wonderful group of people who are always willing to serve their local communities. We have hosted inspiring guest speakers, and volunteer events, and continue to hold monthly virtual Coffee Talks and Happy Hours.

A typical day?

I don’t believe that I’ve ever had a typical workday. One moment I’m entering new employees into our systems, and the next I’m providing backend call-center support. I also help run our big Microsoft Teams live events. And, of course, I troubleshoot communications issues as they arise.

I truly enjoy working with the Technology Services team and especially the Voice and Video Team. Being able to collaborate with such wonderful teams is a really rewarding part of my role.

Changing my career

For about a decade in my previous role, I managed a team doing general upkeep in computer systems and I felt really comfortable doing that! I joined McAfee to do a similar role, but shortly afterward I was asked to pivot to more of an engineering role. It was a bit overwhelming at first, but luckily the team I was with was very helpful and supportive of my learning curve. Even though it was out of my comfort zone, I’m so glad I was given the opportunity – it has blessed mine and my family’s life!

​​​​​​​My advice for anyone looking to drive their career forward is

To never stop learning. There is ALWAYS something to learn and someone who can mentor you. I believe that if you are surrounded by smart people (and pay attention), you can’t help but learn and grow! I absolutely love to learn, so this has been one of top of the reasons why I have loved my job since my very first day.

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#McAfeePride2022

In the spirit of #PrideMonth, McAfee hosted month-long celebrations across the world. One of these was a live event hosted by the McAfee Pride Community with a guest speaker from the Resource Center that focused on the history of Pride, support, allyship, and belonging.

We took a moment to ask our event guest speaker, Leslie McMurray, about the work that Resource Center does, the importance of pride, and what companies can do to create inclusive work environments.

Tell us a bit about Resource Center and what you do?

“We like to say, if we had an “elevator pitch”, we would need a really tall building! Resource Center has been around for 39 years and is one of the largest LGBTQIA+ community centers in the United States, it is a primary HIV/AIDS service organization in Texas.

Some of the work that we do includes operating a food pantry and hot meal program that serves low-income people living with HIV. We have a case management department that helps locate resources that we don’t directly provide, like housing. And we have a primary care clinic that is gender-affirming and a ten-chair dental clinic that also serves those living with HIV.

We also have a youth program called Youth First that serves youth from middle-to-high school. We have a behavioral health program and a clinic that does free testing for HIV and STDs along with a mobile health unit that does free testing in outlying areas. Finally, our advocacy department has three full-time employees!

Why it is important to learn about pride?

“Sometimes we get asked “What’s ‘Pride’ about? Why do you need a parade?”

It’s important to understand that LGBTQIA+ people are still working to achieve equal rights – the same as everyone else.

The tipping point of the fight for equal rights in the US dates back to 1969 when the Stonewall Uprising took place in Manhattan. The first Pride march was held a year later to honor the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising and continues to take place during the month of June each year. And while we appreciate the attention during the month, the continued fight for equal rights for the LGBTQIA+ community is yearly, and we need continuous support and allyship of people and businesses year-round.

So it’s really important for people to learn about diverse populations, understand what their challenges are, and educate yourself on these issues – from that spring’s allies.”

What should companies do to create inclusive work environments

“One of the simplest things for companies to do is to include ‘Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender expression’ in your Equal Employment Opportunity statement. Other things companies can do is to look at putting a policy in place for transgender employees who are transitioning and consider including transgender healthcare in your company benefits package.

Make sure to help foster understanding by getting employees to do training with organizations like Resource Center. And empower upper management to lead the way ensuring all employees can bring their whole selves to work. Finally, when the opportunity arises look at working with and bringing in non-profit organizations into your company to continue spreading awareness and support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

And while June wraps up Pride month, year-round we work towards a workplace and community where all can belong – a workplace where our unique differences are celebrated and where we all stand together for equality. #McAfeePride

Learn more about the incredible work that Resource Center does here

Interested in building your career at a company where you can belong? Search our openings!

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