Tell us about yourself.
My name is Ireen Birungi and I am the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Interac where I lead a high performing and resilient team of 35 across governance risk & compliance, identity & access management, threat and vulnerability management, security incident response and cryptographic services.
Beyond my professional life, I am a proud mother of two wonderful children who bring joy to my world, and I’m fortunate to have a family that fills my life with love & laughter. I have a deep passion for art, creating with watercolors, acrylics, and charcoal in my spare time. I also have a love for food, culture, and travel, having travelled to at least 25 countries and counting. A proud graduate of University of Toronto, I am also a lifelong learner, always eager to grow and discover more.
What does a typical day in the life at Interac look like for you?
My day starts with checking in on my team and peers, including weekly touch points with my leadership team. With a significant mandate at Interac, it is essential that my team and I stay focused on protecting our assets and continually maturing and enhancing our security posture. This requires staying informed of world news and industry trends, remaining connected within the ecosystem, fostering strong relationships with our stakeholders and clients and supporting the business as it invests, builds, defends and grows.
Can you share any reflections on your journey with Interac? Have you gained any valuable insights in your time here?
At Interac, I have experienced a deeply rooted and vibrant culture unlike anything I’ve encountered in other organizations. There is a genuine sense of care, a strong employee-centric approach, and ample opportunities for both personal and professional growth. The company’s commitment to community engagement is truly inspiring. One of the aspects I love most about being at Interac is our intentional focus on delivering value to Canadians, particularly through impactful programs like helping new Canadians build financial confidence.
What advice would you give to young Black professionals looking to develop their careers?
Never underestimate the power and opportunities your network can provide. Step outside your comfort zone and explore new experiences, even when they feel unfamiliar. Your network will be your biggest asset, and by putting yourself out there, you’ll have the chance to showcase your strengths. Don’t limit yourself or confine yourself to an artificial box. Seek out mentors, sponsors, and advocates—those with lived experiences who can guide you and help illuminate your path. It’s an investment worth making because you become what you see.
What does inclusion mean to you and why does it matter?
Belonging. Comfort. Stability. Non-judgment. Vulnerability. Seamless integration. Frictionless. Acceptance. Opportunities. Supportive Environment. Respect. Empowerment. Access. Accountability. It matters because it strengthens the individual, the community and the organizations that continue to foster a culture of inclusion. Everyone benefits.
What is the significance of having a Black Employee Resource Group (ERG) at Interac?
Like any employee resource group, the purpose of having a resource group is to foster a culture of inclusion, support employees in their professional development, a social committee to promote and celebrate cultural heritage within the place that we call work. It provides a platform to share important experiences, offer mentorship and cultivate a sense of belonging, all of which goes a long way in connecting employees to the organization and retention of diverse talent, which Interac benefits from.
Since Interac is committed to supporting small businesses across Canada, are there any Black-owned Canadian businesses you support and recommend?
With over 25 years in technology, I still find it exciting and rewarding. The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics make it more important than ever for diverse voices to be at the table—sharing unique perspectives, designing, and building in ways that mitigate biases in these systems. One organization making a meaningful impact in robotics is Umoja Robotics, which focuses on increasing STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) engagement in lower-income neighborhoods, empowering the next generation of innovators.
