Kicking off the 2025 ACG Distinguished Speakers Series event, Kostas Georgakopoulos, Global Chief Technology and Information Security Officer at Mondelēz International, took center stage for a compelling discussion on cybersecurity, AI, and business strategy. On February 11, the ACG Events Hall became a hub of forward-thinking dialogue, as Dr. Konstantinos Vavousis and Deree students Eva Petrovska and Sava Boga joined Georgakopoulos in dissecting the evolving landscape of digital security, offering expert insights into the future of digital security.
Opening the event, Claudia Carydis, Vice President of Public Affairs, reflected on ACG’s 150-year legacy, emphasizing how the institution has continuously evolved to meet the demands of a changing world. “This milestone speaks to ACG’s unique history, its extraordinary academic trajectory, as well as to its tremendous social impact throughout the years,” she stated, reinforcing the college’s role as a pioneer in academia and professional development.
Dr. Vavousis took the stage and reflected on ACG’s leadership in cybersecurity education, highlighting that Deree’s BSc in Cybersecurity is the first undergraduate program of its kind in Greece. With faculty blending industry expertise and academic excellence, Dr. Vavousis underscored Deree’s impact in shaping future IT, cybersecurity, and computer science leaders when he noted: “We are at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, preparing students not just to enter the job market but to lead in it.”
In the panel discussion, Georgakopoulos touched upon his over 25 years of experience, beginning as a desktop support analyst to becoming a leader in digital transformations while tackling cybersecurity threats across industries. He shared industry realities, emphasizing the growing role of AI-powered cyber threats, the necessity of multi-factor authentication, and how companies must proactively protect against cyberattacks by adapting, not reacting. “Cybersecurity isn’t a checkbox—it’s a mindset,” he stressed.
Georgakopoulos emphasized the value of hands-on experience, adaptability, and lifelong learning. “Certifications matter, but so does your ability to solve problems and adapt in a rapidly changing landscape,” he advised students. He encouraged aspiring IT professionals to pursue industry-recognized cybersecurity and cloud computing certifications, as they can significantly enhance employability and credibility in the field. However, he stressed that technical skills alone are not enough—critical thinking, agility, and a proactive mindset are essential in tackling real-world cyber threats: “Technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and cybersecurity is no exception. What’s cutting-edge today could be obsolete tomorrow. The best professionals aren’t just tech-savvy; they are problem-solvers who can anticipate challenges and pivot quickly.”
Georgakopoulos also advised students to seek internships and engage with cybersecurity communities to gain practical experience. He highlighted the importance of staying curious, continuously learning, and embracing change, emphasizing that these qualities set industry leaders apart. “Companies today are not just looking for degrees and credentials; they want candidates who can think critically, work under pressure, and innovate in real-time,” he noted. “The most successful professionals are those who never stop learning and who approach every challenge as an opportunity to grow and improve.”
As ACG marks 150 years, this event reaffirms our commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and networks that drive career success. Learning directly from top industry leaders through our Distinguished Speakers Series, students are better prepared to navigate, innovate, and lead in an ever-evolving global landscape.