Interactive appoints Anneliese McDowell as cyber chief

Interactive has appointed Anneliese McDowell as Managing Director of Cyber Security, a role that also covers its Slipstream Cyber business.

McDowell joins the Australian IT services company from CyberCX, where she was most recently Executive Director of Strategy and Consulting. She previously held senior roles at Telstra and Accenture, focusing on cyber resilience, strategy and large transformation programs.

Cyber remit

In her new position, she will oversee a cyber security portfolio spanning active defence, digital forensics and incident response, advisory services, and a 24/7 sovereign Security Operations Centre operated from Australia. She will also be responsible for Slipstream Cyber, Interactive's specialist cyber business.

The appointment comes as Australian companies face growing pressure to strengthen defences against cyber attacks and meet rising expectations around local data handling and incident response. The hire forms part of Interactive's push to expand its cyber security operations and Australian-based services.

Business focus

Founded in 2017, Slipstream Cyber provides round-the-clock cyber defence services, including a Security Operations Centre, managed detection and response, and penetration testing for customers in Australia and overseas.

Established in 1988, Interactive provides managed and professional services across cloud, cyber security, data centres, business continuity, network services, systems maintenance, serviced office and digital workplace. It works with more than 2,000 customers and employs more than 600 people.

Leadership view

Commenting on her appointment, McDowell said: "Cyber security is no longer simply about protecting technology. It's about enabling organisations to operate with confidence, manage risk and build resilience in an environment where cyber threats continue to evolve."

"What attracted me to the business is its strong technical capability, customer-first culture and commitment to delivering sovereign cyber security services backed by local expertise. I'm excited to work alongside the team as we continue helping Australian organisations strengthen their security posture and respond confidently when incidents occur," added McDowell.

Chief Executive Officer Alex Coates said the appointment reflects demand among Australian organisations for cyber security providers with local operations and response teams.

"We know Australian organisations are increasingly seeking cyber security partners who understand the local market, operate locally and can respond quickly when it matters most," said Alex Coates, Chief Executive Officer, Interactive. "Anneliese brings deep industry experience, strategic expertise and a proven track record of helping organisations strengthen their cyber resilience. She has led large consulting teams, advised executive leadership and boards, and understands how to translate complex cyber challenges into practical business outcomes.

"We're delighted to welcome Anneliese to the Interactive team and look forward to the impact she will have on our customers, our people and the continued growth of our cyber security business," added Coates.