Meet Phyo Pyae Thet Pon, a JCU Singapore alumnus from Myanmar who graduated with a Bachelor of Information Technology (Computing and Networking) in 2016.

Today, Phyo is an Information Security Manager in the banking sector in Myanmar, where he works to protect critical financial infrastructure, digital assets and customer trust.

From building his foundation in IT at JCU Singapore to navigating the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, his journey reflects how education can empower us to adapt, grow and make an impact. Recently, Phyo had the opportunity to revisit the JCU Singapore campus, where returning to a familiar place brought back wonderful memories of his student days, the vibrant learning environment and the lifelong friendships he made along the way.

Read his alumni story and discover how his JCU experience continues to shape his journey today.

1. What are you up to right now?

I currently work as an Information Security Manager in Myanmar's banking sector, where I oversee the protection of critical financial infrastructure, digital assets, and customer trust.

2. Can you tell us more about your current role and why you decided to take on this role?

I lead a multi-faceted cybersecurity strategy covering SOC (Security Operations Centre) Operations, IT Governance, Risk, and Compliance (ITGRC), Risk Management, IT Policies, and Security Awareness Training programs.

Having built my foundation through technical and leadership roles across Singapore and Myanmar, from System Analyst and System Engineer to IT Department Supervisor, stepping into security management within banking felt like a natural, high impact evolution. Financial institutions operate in high-stakes environments where security directly impacts economic stability and trust. I chose this path to bridge the gap between technical defence and strategic governance, driving a proactive security culture from the inside out.

3. If you could highlight one memorable experience in your career journey/experience so far, what would that be?

Two key milestones stand out as important moments in my career growth, each reflecting a different aspect of my professional journey. The first was being named AI Hackathon Champion in 2025 at my workplace. Winning the competition was incredibly rewarding, as it demonstrated how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence can be creatively applied to solve complex problems and drive innovation in the financial sector.

The second was receiving the Best Employee Award in 2022 during my time with a major telecommunications operator in Myanmar. Being recognised for my performance and leadership during a pivotal period for national connectivity was a meaningful acknowledgement of the dedication and resilience I had developed over the years.

Together, these experiences have reinforced my belief that staying innovative, embracing new technologies and maintaining high operational standards can lead to meaningful results.

4. What are some of the lessons learned or challenges faced?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that cybersecurity is as much about culture and human behaviour as it is about advanced technology. Managing security operations and regulatory risk is critical, but inspiring an organisation-wide security mindset through effective awareness training and policy design is where true resilience lies. Transitioning into management taught me to view security not as a restrictive barrier, but as an essential enabler of digital trust and business growth.

5. How do you feel studying at the Singapore campus of James Cook University has helped you in your career?

Studying at JCU provided both a rigorous academic foundation and invaluable exposure to a diverse, international community. That global perspective gave me the confidence and adaptability to excel in multinational environments, including my time working with major organisations in Singapore like StarHub and Lenovo PCCW.

The analytical problem-solving skills and structured thinking I developed at JCU continue to serve as the backbone of how I evaluate enterprise risks, draft IT policies, and lead security operations today.

6. What would be your advice for current students?

Master the core fundamentals, cultivate adaptability, and embrace lifelong learning. Technology and security tools evolve rapidly, but strong critical thinking, a firm grasp of underlying systems, and clear communication skills will always remain timeless assets. Most importantly, cherish your time at JCU. Build meaningful connections, collaborate across cultures, and stay curious.

7. What is education to you?

To me, education is empowerment, adaptability, and continuous growth. It isn't just about gaining technical knowledge; it is about building the intellectual framework to navigate complex challenges and empowering those around you to succeed.

8. Lastly, JCU's strategic intent is ‘Creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally, and globally’. How do you think you have made (or are making) a difference?

By taking the global education and regional experience I gained in Singapore and applying it to safeguard the digital financial ecosystem in Myanmar. By strengthening SOC defences, mitigating risk, and promoting digital security literacy, I help protect the financial services that everyday people rely on.

Contributing to a safer, more resilient digital infrastructure in my home country is my way of living out JCU’s mission to make a tangible, lasting difference in the region.

Published in August 2026