After a decade in sales, Natacha Bakir made the bold transition into cybersecurity, building a broad technical expertise in malware analysis, reverse engineering, and threat intelligence. Today, as a Principal Malware Analyst and CTI Team Lead at Senthorus, she oversees one of the largest cybersecurity events globally, where she leads training sessions and hands-on challenges for the next generation of security professionals. In addition to this leadership role, Natacha serves as a CSIRT Malware Analyst/Reverse Engineer, conducting hands-on forensic investigations and reverse engineering malware at assembly level. She also supports high-stakes clients, including the Army, Customs, and private companies.

Natacha’s achievements have been widely recognised. She was a runner-up in the VX-Underground/SentinelOne Malware Research Challenge, a CEH Hall of Fame honouree, and named Cyber Professional Woman of the Year by CEFCYS. She regularly shares her expertise at major industry events, including Swiss Cyber Security Days and the BNP Risk Festival, and will lead a malware analysis challenge at the French Air and Space Force Academy in 2025.

Beyond her technical work, Natacha is committed to supporting the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, particularly women entering the field. She mentors students and career changers, providing training plans, interview preparation, and career guidance. She also participates in initiatives such as Startup for Kids, encouraging young people to explore careers in STEM and helping to bridge the industry’s talent gap. Her work reflects a broader commitment to empowering others, ensuring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals have the tools and confidence to succeed in a challenging and rapidly evolving industry.

Judges’ Comments:

“Natacha is clearly a high achieving and highly motivated woman, accomplished in her capability and motivated to help others through guidance and collaboration.”