5 minutes with Paul Emerson

Meet Paul Emerson – Principal Security Architect at The Missing Link 

At The Missing Link, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their expertise and dedication drive IT transformation for our clients, delivering real impact every day. But there’s more to them than just their roles! In this series, we take a closer look at the unique passions, experiences, and quirks that make our team who they are, both inside and outside of work. 

Paul joined The Missing Link bringing with him a wealth of experience in cyber security and consulting. With a background that spans hands-on technical roles to leadership across boutique firms and big consultancies, he’s built a reputation as a trusted advisor and strategic thinker. Outside of work, Paul’s a lover of golf, AFL, and travel, with a lively household that includes two dogs, two cats, and plenty of weekend adventures.  

Let’s take five minutes to get to know Paul a little better. 

Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up and what was it like? 

I was born in Melbourne but moved to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, around the age of four, just as the country gained independence. I spent my school years there, surrounded by rich indigenous culture, natural beauty, and a mix of global communities supporting the nation’s growth. 

As a kid, I had a wide range of interests. I loved exploring, going on bush and jungle walks, bike riding, swimming, playing soccer, Aussie Rules football, golf, sailing, and snorkelling. Climbing the mango trees in the yard was a daily event. I was also hooked on The Phantom comics and sci-fi and fantasy books. We didn’t have a TV until I was about 14, so most of my time was spent outdoors!

With all those adventures and interests, was there one that really stood out for you? 

One achievement that stands out was completing the Kokoda Trail in Year 11- a four-day trek through dense jungle in Papua New Guinea. We carried 20kg packs across nearly 150km of rugged terrain, climbing a total of 6,750 metres. Most take 9–12 days to finish it, so doing it in four was a huge test of endurance and something I’m still proud of. 

That kind of determination and adventure must’ve shaped your early ambitions. What was your dream job growing up, and what was your first experience of working life? 

When I was in my pre-teen years, I dreamed of being an explorer, discovering new places and things in far flung corners of the world. Later on, in my last few years of high school, I set my sights on being an AirForce Pilot and was all set for officer cadet entry. Unfortunately, a serious motorcycle accident just before graduation left me with an injury that made me ineligible. 

After finishing school and recovering, I travelled to the south of France and the Côte d'Azur, where I landed my first paid job as a deckhand on a large yacht. We sailed along the Italian coast, stopping in places like San Remo and Monte Carlo, and explored the beautiful southern French coastline. 

That’s an incredible start to working life. How did your career evolve from those early jobs into the world of IT and cyber security? 

In my early 20s, I worked a mix of jobs; handyman, clerical roles, at a nursing home, and even picture framing. I eventually returned to study as a mature-age uni student, which led me into IT in my late 20s. 

I started out in tech support at a Big Four firm, moved into cyber security engineering, and eventually led a cyber solutions team. In my mid-30s, I shifted into consulting, joining a boutique firm specialising in cyber solutions, engineering, and architecture where I developed my trusted advisor skills. 

Since then, I’ve held a variety of roles across the industry, including large transformation projects, principal and director positions, and running my own business. Now, I’ve come full circle in my role with The Missing Link. 

What led you to joining The Missing Link?

It was the right opportunity at the right time with Aaron Bailey and Sam Marshall. I’ve known them for over 20 years, so when the chance came up to work with them, it just made sense. 

What is your role at The Missing Link? What do you love most about it?

My role here is as a Principal Architect. What I love about The Missing Link is the culture; smart, supportive, and capable. We’ve got an incredible depth of knowledge across the team, and we move fast, which keeps things exciting. 

What inspires you, and where do you see yourself in a few years? 

I’m driven by helping businesses unlock the value of their existing or potential investments to build stronger, more resilient operations. Seeing them achieve strategic outcomes fuels my passion for the next challenge. 

Considering the recent acquisition of The Missing Link by Infosys, I see our capabilities becoming a core part of the broader Infosys cyber services ecosystem. I’m excited about the opportunity to play a key role in shaping our Cyber Solutions offering and leveraging the scale-up potential we now have access to. It’s a chance to really grow and evolve the business across our region.

Do you consider yourself a tech-freak? Do you have a favourite gadget? 

Broadly, yes. I’ve always loved technology, especially when it brings real advantages and efficiencies. I’m particularly interested in how AI and AGI are evolving and how they’ll reshape the way we live and work over the next few years. ‘The times, they sure are a-changin’!’ 

As for a favourite gadget, nothing stands out at the moment. I probably overuse my mobile device a bit these days, mostly for news, YouTube, and the occasional golf game app. If I get lucky and win the soon-to-be-released Switch 2, that might just take the top spot! 

Do you keep up to date with the latest technology trends/devices? 

I do try to keep up, though with the pace of change and the sheer volume of innovations out there, it’s nearly impossible to stay across everything. What’s just as interesting to me is how much of the content we consume is now curated based on our individual profiles. It makes me wonder: what am I not seeing? I’d love to see an AI agent developed that finds and showcases information that is the antithesis of what big tech and social media has been curating for each of us! 

If money wasn't an issue, describe your dream day? 

It would be getting all of my extended family together for an unforgettable party on a luxury tropical island somewhere like the Maldives or Pacific Polynesia. And of course, the dream day wouldn’t end too soon… I’d make sure the “late checkout” was at least five days later!  

What can you generally be found doing on weekends? 

Most weekends, you’ll find me spending time with my immediate family and our pets. If the weather’s good, I might do a bit of gardening or go for a 5–10km walk. A round of golf or catching a Swans AFL match is always a bonus. Otherwise, I’m more than happy to kick back at home and binge-watch a new series with the family. 

I’m passionate about golf, AFL, and getting out for bush walks whenever I can. I love to travel and explore new places, but nothing beats quality time with my family. At home, we’ve got a lively crew (two dogs and two cats) so there’s never a dull moment!

Do you have a story of an interesting experience while pursuing your passions and hobbies? 

I’ve got too many stories to fit into one answer! Always happy to share a few over a coffee or drink- there’s something great about swapping stories with others who’ve had their own adventures too.  

What is the best thing about living in your city? 

Sydney has a great vibe. The weather and climate are (mostly) fantastic, and it’s hard to beat the combination of stunning beaches and a beautiful harbour. Add to that a vibrant food scene, excellent restaurants, and some truly unique cocktail and whiskey bars!