Deloitte Women in Cyber

What inspired you to join Deloitte India’s Risk Advisory practice, specifically Cyber, and what motivates you to continue or what’s the best part of your job?

Fascinated by technology, I embarked on my journey in the field of privacy and data protection by choosing it as one of the areas of specialisation during my master’s degree. At that time, the implementation of GDPR in Europe motivated me to pursue a career in this domain, sensing the perfect opportunity. As my interest in the subject persisted, I seized the exciting opportunity and joined the Cyber practice at Deloitte India.

When I began my career here, I was relatively inexperienced in the realm of privacy. However, I was also thrilled to be a part of this domain due to my theoretical knowledge and the intriguing developments taking place in India in 2018, particularly with the committee of experts submitting the first draft of the privacy bill headed by the retired Supreme Court Judge, Justice BN Srikrishna. Luckily, I had the opportunity to attend a seminar on the data privacy bill. The discussion further fuelled my excitement, and I knew I was in the right place at the right time.

I chose to continue in this field, and it was driven by the fact that my journey has been consistently upward. I am deeply passionate about privacy and cybersecurity, and I consistently strive to research whenever possible to learn more every day.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is the diversity of privacy projects that come our way, where witnessing how our experts’ advice benefits our clients is truly rewarding. What I love most about my job is being involved in such a niche and rapidly evolving field. It’s a privilege to contribute to its continuous growth and new developments.

What work accomplishments are you most proud of?

During my first year, I was assigned to a project to audit the GDPR compliance effectiveness for a BFSI client. Initially, I was apprehensive as I was the only resource on this project, and my role was slightly different from what I had expected. Despite the challenges and being driven by the passion to learn more, I managed to lead the entire audit exercise and presented the results to the board. Fortunately, all my observations were well-received, and I even earned a certificate of achievement in recognition of my efforts.

Have you faced any roadblocks/challenges in your career, and what advice would you give women/your peers facing similar obstacles?

Unlike many of my colleagues in the cyber domain, I do not come from a technical background. Consequently, there have been instances where clients asked about my qualifications, led by scepticism in my ability to comprehend their needs and cater to their requirements. However, I have successfully dispelled these doubts by demonstrating that cyber is not just about having technical knowledge; it is an expansive and inclusive domain. Thriving in the cyber field is achievable if one has the required knowledge and skill set.

To my fellow women, I advise you to “Hang in there. Mastery takes time; we can’t expect to be experts overnight. So, stand your ground and be prepared. You might not have answers to all the questions but use this as an opportunity to enhance your knowledge in this area. This knowledge will undoubtedly prove valuable at some point in your career. Allow yourself the time to grow, and things will fall into place eventually. So, don’t give up.”

Can you talk about the importance of having role models, particularly for women in cyber or how can the industry at large/leaders better support women in cybersecurity?

Having role models for women, particularly in the cyber domain, is of paramount importance as it paves the way for future generations. When women excel in all areas, leaving no stone unturned, the cyber industry should be no exception. Role models are crucial in inspiring young women to turn their dreams into reality, bringing diverse perspectives to the table.

The cyber industry is continually evolving and gaining more significance today, presenting an opportunity to create more roles for women and diversify the workplace.

To better support women in this field, the industry can take various steps. Firstly, connecting high school students with cybersecurity organisations or businesses can ignite interest and awareness. Secondly, the focus should shift from a gender-based analysis of backgrounds to a more education-based qualifying criterion. Lastly, tracking the path women take to executive management and C-suite positions can identify areas where support is needed and ensure women receive the necessary assistance along the way. By implementing these measures, the industry can foster a more inclusive environment and empower women to thrive in cybersecurity.

Why according to you, should more women consider a role in cyber?

Gender diversity in the cyber industry has significant potential for growth. It is crucial to eradicate the stigma of a male-dominated STEM job industry.

When researching women’s perspectives on the cybersecurity industry, common reasons for leaving or avoiding it include a lack of female role models, prevailing stereotypes, and pay gaps. It is vital for women to enter the field and pave the way for others who may have a passion or interest in cyber but are discouraged by the perception of it being a “boy’s club.”

Remember, your unique perspectives, skill, and contributions are valuable in the field of privacy and cyber. Don’t be afraid to venture into unchartered waters. If you are certain about working in cyberspace, embrace curiosity. Cyber is an expansive domain where endless opportunities wait. You can continuously explore and discover your niche by building your expertise in the area.