“This taught me the importance of a fast response, teamwork, and educating others to handle security problems effectively,” said Rajeev Soota , Vice President-IT, Usha International Ltd.

Can you describe your current role, and what responsibilities do you undertake?

Over 34 years of experience, with a significant focus on the last two decades within IT. My expertise lies in managing business applications, specifically ERP solutions like SAP, APO, demand planning, sales forecasting, business intelligence, etc. Key roles evolved around automation initiatives, digitization, enhancing operational efficiency, and leveraging technology for business excellence to contribute substantially in the company’s IT landscape.

How will you describe your journey in the cybersecurity industry?

My journey in cybersecurity has been driven by a strong passion for learning and protecting my business applications and other digital systems. Although I am not a professional in IT security, my interest has led me to stay updated on emerging threats. Collaborating with experts and continually expanding my knowledge has been incredibly rewarding. My goal is to contribute to a safer digital environment by applying what I’ve learned and staying curious about new developments in the field.

If you could make one recommendation to the next generation of cybersecurity leaders, what would it be?

Though I am not an expert, my recommendation to the next generation of cybersecurity leaders would be to cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Engage with a diverse range of experts, participate in forums and workshops, and keep up to date with the latest trends and technologies. Emphasize collaboration and communication within your teams, as these skills are crucial for effective problem-solving. By being proactive and open to new ideas, you’ll be better equipped to protect and secure the digital landscape.

How do you stay current with the latest security threats and technologies?

I stay updated with the latest security threats and technologies by regularly reading blogs, following cybersecurity news, and participating in online forums and communities. I also attend webinars, workshops, and conferences to learn from experts and network with professionals in the field. By combining these resources, I maintain a strong understanding of the evolving cybersecurity landscape and continue to fuel my passion for learning about IT security.

Can you discuss a time when you had to handle a security incident, and what steps you took to resolve it?

I’m not an IT security professional, but I once dealt with a security issue when our system was hit by a phishing attack. I worked with the IT team to find the breach and isolate the affected systems. We quickly changed all passwords and set up two-factor authentication. We documented what happened, informed all employees, and held a short training session on spotting phishing emails. This taught me the importance of a fast response, teamwork, and educating others to handle security problems effectively.