Lisa Patterson

Dr Lisa Patterson is passionate about safeguarding sensitive information in an increasingly digital world. With experience across education, corporate financial services, and small business ownership, Lisa brings a diverse skillset and a well‑rounded perspective to the importance of privacy and cybersecurity in protecting sensitive data.

An experienced facilitator and educator, Lisa enjoys working with learners from a wide range of backgrounds and is excited to continue presenting the Privacy in the Public Sector micro‑credential. She has taught at several academic institutions, most recently Kāpuhipuhi Wellington Uni‑Professional and Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington. Lisa has supported students from both industry and academic settings, focusing on privacy and security, and is known for adapting her teaching approach to meet the needs of different learners.

Lisa is co‑convenor of the Security Working Group for Privacy Foundation NZ and represents the working group on the Privacy Foundation Committee, which provides independent, informed, and fair public commentary on privacy‑related issues.

Lisa’s PhD explored New Zealanders’ attitudes and behaviours towards privacy, cybersecurity, and AI. Alongside teaching Privacy in the Public Sector, she contributes to research focused on finding, observing, and reducing threats across domestic and global software supply chains.

Outside of work, Lisa enjoys spending time with whānau and friends and loves to travel, appreciating new cultures and different perspectives.