Magix Security’s Kevin Wotshela protecting South Africa, one byte at a time

With two decades of experience in cybersecurity, Kevin Wotshela has built Magix Security into a trusted name in the industry. The company now serves over 300 clients across a range of sectors, offering bespoke IT security solutions tailored to each business’s specific needs. Backed by a skilled team of more than 20 cyber experts, Magix continues to lead the way in providing next-gen security services that keep businesses safe in an ever-evolving digital world.

Can you describe the path that led you to become the Managing Director of Magix Security? What experiences or influences were pivotal in your career?

Most MDs in the cybersecurity space come from technical backgrounds, such as networking, computing, programming, and ethical hacking, whereas my transition into this sector came purely fortuitously through my love of tech from a clinical and financial risk rules-based background.

My earliest foray into the tech space gave me a technical foundation, enabling me to understand the tools and methodologies required to secure digital environments. My path to becoming the MD of Magix was shaped by spending eight years in management orientation under the guidance of Hedley Hurwitz and Chris Hills, the founding partners and shareholders of Magix, without realising that I was being groomed for this role.

Working closely with Hedley, I gained firsthand experience of what cybersecurity is all about and became aware of the latest trends and developments in the field. The advent of COVID-19 and the disruption it brought to our way of living prompted an urge to adopt and adapt to innovative ways of doing business. The experiences gained during my steep learning curve, combined with my eagerness to learn, have been instrumental in my journey to becoming the MD of a well-established company with a solid 21-year track record.

What are some of the key milestones or achievements you have accomplished in your career, particularly in the field of cyber security?

Since assuming the role of MD, Magix has focused on creating innovative, proactive cybersecurity solutions that cater to the needs of clients across all sectors of business. Magix is a trusted partner, and we have built powerful alliances with leading IT security partners and vendors, which enable us to enhance our capabilities and offerings. We believe that we have introduced innovative cybersecurity solutions, such as Continuous Vulnerability Management (CVM), tailored for businesses of all sizes, which will help clients mitigate cyber threats and risks.

What specific areas of cyber security do you specialise in? How do you stay ahead of the latest trends and threats in this rapidly evolving field?

Insider Threat Management (ITM) and compliance to PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) are areas that I gravitate towards in the cybersecurity space. Magix’s specialty is offensive cybersecurity, and our intention is to continue growing in this space by adapting ourselves to the advent of AI in our sector, as well as enabling our customers to grow and benefit from the best-of-breed services Magix offers.

To stay ahead of the latest trends and threats in this rapidly evolving field, I have opted to learn about and research the impact of emerging technologies on cybersecurity, attend webinars and roundtable events hosted by our technology partners. Being part of strategic partnerships with leading technological partners and networks allows me an opportunity to gain insights into new vulnerabilities and world-class defence techniques.

What inspired you to venture into entrepreneurship within the cyber security industry? How do you differentiate Magix Security from other firms in the market?

My entrepreneurial journey into cybersecurity was driven by a deep awareness of the rapidly evolving digital landscape and the mounting threats that businesses face globally, particularly in our country. The growing reliance on technology, coupled with the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals, created a significant need for specialised cybersecurity solutions.

Magix sets itself apart from competitors by focusing on innovation, tailored security strategies, and ongoing employee education.

By offering comprehensive services such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, endpoint protection and response, email/channel security solutions, insider threat management solutions, and third-party risk management solutions, Magix enhances holistic protection and approach against threats.

Magix prioritises client partnerships, helping businesses not only safeguard their systems but also maintain compliance with regulations such as PCI DSS, POPIA, GDPR, and others. Our custom solution, CVM, allows businesses of any size to access a scalable and cost-effective cybersecurity framework, ensuring they are equipped to manage modern digital threats while having a cybersecurity specialist on call 24/7/365.

How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it contributed to the success of your team and the company as a whole?

There is a mix of leadership styles in my approach, which I believe aligns with Magix’s team needs as well as the company’s goals. I came into a culture where team members were encouraged to take ownership of their work, leading to increased commitment and productivity.

This positive culture enabled me to align myself with team members who understood what was expected of them and aligned the team’s work with the company’s goals.

I believe I adapt my leadership style to what is presented before me. I am very much aware of the strengths and weaknesses of the team; I am surrounded by very technical and experienced team members who have entrusted me to lead and manage the 21-year-old entity into the next phase of cybersecurity evolution and innovation.

What significant contributions have you or Magix Security made to the cyber security industry in South Africa? Are there any notable projects or initiatives you are particularly proud of?

Magix has made significant contributions to the cybersecurity landscape in South Africa by providing a wide range of services designed to protect businesses from cyber threats. Notable initiatives include:

– The introduction of our Continuous Vulnerability Management (CVM) solution assists organisations in identifying and addressing system vulnerabilities through ongoing assessments. Our CVM solution provides real-time monitoring and feedback on potential threats, making it easier for businesses of all sizes to proactively manage their cybersecurity.

– We have elevated and enhanced our IT Security product portfolio by aligning ourselves with leading international cybersecurity solutions in vulnerability management, application security, insider threat management, cyber fraud, identity and access management, as well as email/channel security.

Magix’s role in improving cybersecurity in the country is rooted in our emphasis on forming strong, trust-based partnerships with businesses, enabling them to stay one step ahead of evolving threats.

What are your future goals for Magix Security, and how do you envision your role in shaping the cyber security landscape in South Africa?

Magix has built a strong and credible track record in the cybersecurity landscape over two decades, and that goodwill is an asset that we intend to leverage by excelling in our service offering to our customers, both new and current.

We envision a future for the company that is firmly rooted in partnerships rather than mere service provision. The importance of building trusted relationships with our customers, where Magix acts as a proactive partner that not only protects businesses but also empowers them to manage their own cybersecurity, is our ultimate goal.

Our success in customising solutions like CVM, which offer real-time threat monitoring and tailored cybersecurity services that evolve according to a business’s needs, is what will continue to differentiate us from the rest of the competition. Magix must continue to innovate and adapt its services in alignment with the rapidly evolving threat landscape.

Are there any personal anecdotes or experiences that have shaped your professional ethos or approach to business?

I was brought up by parents and a maternal grandmother who instilled in me the importance of education, independence, integrity, respect, and the adoption of good life principles and values from an early age. Those principles continue to guide me to this day, charting my path in corporate South Africa.

I am deeply influenced by the concept of empowerment through education and strong mentorship. Growing up, I saw how access to knowledge could level the playing field. I rely on a wide network of personal and professional mentors who guide and support me in my journey of growth.

The late Dr Clarence Mini, a medical doctor and trailblazer in the healthcare sector, sadly passed away in May 2020 due to COVID-19. Mr Michael Sacks (Motty), the retired former chairman of the Netcare Group, are professionals who have shaped who I am today. They didn’t just help me in my career; they taught me a lot about patience, resilience, and the importance of taking time to enjoy life outside of work. Their influence wasn’t just about making me better at what I do – it was about helping me grow as a person.

My journey in the cybersecurity sector started in mid-2016, when I was fortuitously allowed to join Magix. I was empowered to figure out what tools to use to assist customers in reducing their vulnerability to threats. Looking back, I realise just how much the late Chris Hills and Hedley Hurwitz, my mentor and current chairman, have shaped who I am today. I’m incredibly grateful to have had them in my corner – not just as mentors, but as true friends.

What I love most about cybersecurity is that I get to protect people’s data in ways they often don’t see. Whether it’s keeping their information safe or helping businesses avoid a crisis, I know I’m doing something that matters.

About Kevin Wotshela

Kevin’s entry into cybersecurity was driven by his passion for technology and a background in clinical and financial risk management. His leadership has propelled Magix Security into a new era, marked by pioneering solutions such as Continuous Vulnerability Management (CVM) and strategic alliances with top IT security vendors.

His expertise extends to Insider Threat Management and PCI DSS compliance, ensuring that Magix remains at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation. His entrepreneurial spirit and adaptive leadership style have been crucial in navigating the evolving digital landscape, fostering a culture of ownership and productivity within his team.

Under Kevin’s guidance, Magix has significantly influenced the cybersecurity terrain in South Africa, empowering organisations with proactive solutions and forming trust-based partnerships. His vision for the future centres on building partnerships and adapting to the rapidly changing threat landscape.

Kevin’s personal journey is enriched by lessons from mentors and family, emphasising patience, resilience, and the joy found beyond work. His story is one of transformation and commitment to a safer digital world.