Last updated at Thu, 31 Aug 2017 14:04:13 GMT

Surrounding yourself with excellence is a key strategy for success in both one's personal and professional lives.

As some may have heard, last week was my last at Rapid7. Leaving my team was a difficult decision to make. Over the last two years, I've had the privilege of serving as Global Security Strategist at a firm in hyper growth that executed a successful IPO in a very tough business & financial climate.

I had the opportunity to play to my strengths and contribute in many ways: CISO advisory work, research advocacy, on-stage delivery, or press relations; all in the interest of contributing to the security community.

But as a company grows, needs change. We've grown our team of experts with careers specialized in many disciplines. I'm proud to have played a role in bringing some of these experts to Rapid7. "Strong leaders surround themselves with excellence." I firmly believe we've done just that. I can say without hesitation that Rapid7 has some of the best people in the business, doing good work for our customers, our shareholders, and the professional security community.

Somewhere along this path, you start to ask, "Have I accomplished the mission I set out to?"

The answer comes without hesitation: "Yes I have."

I am proud to have contributed to Rapid7's success, but I also believe that new challenges exist in our profession/industry/world that will benefit from my experience, expertise and attention. To that end, while both Rapid7 and I are working to make citizens and organizations safer, our trajectories are moving in different directions. The needs of Rapid7 of two years ago just aren't the same needs they have today.

I'm proud of my team, what we've done, where we've traveled, and where they are going. As HD said, I know Rapid7's brightest days are ahead.

I remain a friend of the family, a fierce and loyal advocate for Rapid7, and the community we serve. And they for me.

For those at RSA next week, I'll see you there and look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead.

~ @treyford