'There isn’t always a clear answer, but if I can’t help, I’ll find someone who can'
Posted on: 19 February 2025 in Meet our Team
Bronagh O’Loan, our Information Security Analyst, loves a good process document, playing detective at work, and stockpiling chocolate bars.
Hello! Please introduce yourself.
My name is Bronagh, and I am an Information Security Analyst.
How long have you worked in IT Services?
In April 2025, I will have worked here for 2 years (but it seems like much longer!)
What are some of the day-to-day activities in your role?
My role is really varied, and no 2 days are the same. However, I spend the majority of my time advising on the security implications of all sorts of projects going on at the University. I also do a lot of policy work, support security-related queries, and signpost processes. More recently, I helped create a process for the disposal of IT assets, and worked across all our faculties to ensure our staff understood the importance of compliance.
A large part of my job is the review of Supplier Security Questionnaires (SSQs).
What is an SSQ?
A Supplier Security Questionnaire (SSQ) validates whether suppliers of IT and cloud services can meet University required security standards as per the University's Information Security Policy.
The SSQ provides security due diligence on a supplier and their solution/service to operate in a secure manner before we entrust them with University data. This process helps departments to minimise and manage risk to their data and to the University infrastructure and reputation.
What’s something people would never know or guess about your job?
The sheer detective work that is needed when working in the Information Security team! It’s important that we understand any issues that could arise when entrusting a third-party with University data.
What’s the best thing about working in your team?
Probably the variety of people we get to engage with; this can range from external suppliers and academics to staff members, students, and many others.
What’s the most difficult thing about your job?
Not always having a clear-cut answer or way forward. Things can take time, and sometimes, items must be prioritised over others.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to staff or students to help them get the most out of IT Services?
I would advise people to really plan ahead and think about what they want to buy in advance of doing so. It can be difficult for us when IT Services are engaged with late in the procurement process, and this can sometimes cause undue delays. We are always open to people reaching out to us for a chat in the first instance, as the more we know in advance, the better!
What would you like staff and students to know about your role and team?
That we are approachable and always happy to help – and, if I can’t help, I will try my very best to find someone who can.
What’s your favourite snack?
Anything chocolate related… anyone who sits near me know I usually have a chocolate bar sitting within a 1 metre radius of my laptop.
What are your three desert island items?
SPF 50 (probably a necessity for me on a desert island?), a luxury hotel pillow, and a really nice perfume.