Jason Cooney- Cyber Security Officer, Chief Information Security Office

Background

I work as a Cyber Security Officer in the Chief Information Security Office (CISO). I first joined the HSE in August 2022 as part of the National Service Desk (NSD) team. Big shout-out to the NSD Louth team—keep up the great work!

In August 2024, I transitioned into my current role within the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT). We’re a team of about 10 people working closely with multiple groups across the HSE, including the NSD, Incident Management, CTO, Cyber Defence, and Security Operations teams. Collaboration is key in our line of work! I’m based in Southgate, Drogheda, and live just 10 minutes away in a quiet estate.

Working Life

My day revolves around team collaboration and planning. I spend a lot of time meeting with our CSIRT team and wider management to set priorities and create action plans. A core part of my role is assigning tasks to team members and keeping track of progress.

We’re focused on implementing robust cybersecurity policies, which means working closely with different teams across the HSE. I’m often involved in introduction meetings with partners like Ivanti and PFH, all with the shared goal of strengthening the HSE’s resilience to cyber threats.

Impact on Patient Care

Cybersecurity plays a critical role in protecting patient care. The impact of the 2021 cyberattack on the HSE network is still felt today, and it’s a stark reminder of how vital our work is. It was this incident that led to the establishment of a dedicated CSIRT team within the HSE, ensuring we’re better prepared for any future threats.

Top Priorities

My top priority right now is getting our CSIRT team fully operational by our go-live date in March 2025. It’s a big milestone, and the entire team is focused on making it happen.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges we face is aligning new cybersecurity policies and processes with teams that are long established within the HSE. CSIRT teams are still relatively uncommon across Europe, so we’re paving the way and establishing a strong foundation. Gaining buy-in from leadership is key, but it’s also one of our more complex tasks.

Motivation

The 2021 cyberattack was a defining moment for the HSE and a personal motivator for me to join the CSIRT team. I love what I do and the people I work with. Knowing that our collective efforts build trust in the security of the HSE network is incredibly rewarding. Every day, I’m motivated by the team’s shared goals of protecting against internal and external threats.

What I Enjoy Most

I thrive on the dynamic nature of my work—no two days are the same. I enjoy collaborating with my teammates and staying busy. Having worked on many tech projects outside of the HSE, from large-scale migrations to building comms rooms in Ireland and the UK, I appreciate the team effort it takes to deliver projects in this organisation. Right now, I’m proud to be part of the CSIRT team. Playing a role in building out this team and seeing our progress motivates me every day.

Hobbies and Interests

When I’m not at work, you’ll often find me at my local CrossFit gym or out for long walks. I also love spending quality time with my two children. And of course, tech is a big part of my life—you’ll rarely see me without a computer!