Every Friday we’ll profile a prominent figure from Australia’s IT, telecommunications or video gaming industries in the Friday Five.

Most people in the IT industry know Rob Forsyth as the calm managing director under control at security firm Sophos. But things have also gotten a bit wild in some of his other roles — for example, with the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games. Forsyth’s our guest this week for the Friday Five.

1. What was your first job ever?

At AMP as an assistant working in the punch card (computer) department.

2. What do you most like about working in Australia’s technology industry?

Technology is ever evolving and IT executives can play a big part in helping societies meet human challenges through innovative technology.

3. What’s your hobby?

My three biggest passions outside of work are my family, rugby and cooking. I try to spend as much time as I can with my family and I’ve always enjoyed playing and watching rugby. In a previous life, I also used to own a seafood restaurant and I try to cook whenever I can find the time.

4. What can Australia do better to help grow a great technology sector?

Technology is causing changes in our society at a faster rate than any other time in human history. Australians can provide leadership, in creating both technical solutions and new social guidelines that will allow other communities to leverage our best practice.

5. What/who has been the biggest inspiration in your career?

The Olympic experience was a real career highlight and the leadership shown by Sandy Hollway (CEO) was great — very calm under fire and just a terrific person to work with.

Image credit: Sophos

Related posts:

1. Friday Five: WatchGuard’s Scott Robertson
2. Friday Five: CA’s Brenton Smith
3. Friday Five: Nuix’s Eddie Sheehy
4. Friday Five: Red Hat’s Max McLaren
5. Friday Five: Pollenizer’s Jon Tyson