In our fourth instalment of Formidable Sekurians we spotlight Jaya De Silva’s inspiring professional career.
Career Journey
What was your first ever job?
I studied commerce and law, working as a paralegal at a community law firm during my final year of university, continuing there as a junior lawyer after graduating handling criminal and family law matters.
Tell us about your professional journey before joining Sekuro, including any significant roles, achievements, or pivotal moments that shaped your career path.
After being told, I was better suited to corporate law, something I initially took offence to, I pivoted into an engineering firm working with defence and government contracts, before making an exciting move into healthcare.
How did Sekuro or previous companies come onto your radar?
A call out of the blue from a recruiter I was initially sceptical of changed everything. With the words “Take a chance on Sekuro” still ringing in my ears, I took the leap and have never looked back.
What attracted you to join Sekuro or previous companies, and how has your role evolved since joining?
The opportunity to build something from the ground up was irresistible. Meeting the founders, particularly a tattooed, non-corporate CEO, confirmed this wasn’t your typical company. My role has since expanded from coaching reps and building collateral to managing commercial and legal contracting aspects and introducing the Deal Enablement process.
Please describe your current role at Sekuro and your key responsibilities.
I lead bids and deal management, oversee compliance frameworks, manage commercial and legal contracting, and drive the Deal Enablement process across the business.
Growth and Support at Sekuro
In what ways has Sekuro supported your professional development and career growth?
Sekuro fully supported my transition from a 2IC role into a leadership position and encouraged me to complete postgraduate studies in Emerging Leadership through UNSW, with plans to expand into company governance this year.
Could you share an example of how Sekuro’s workplace culture has enabled you to achieve your career goals?
Learning and development has always been a priority, and Sekuro’s commitment to providing annual training opportunities has made that possible.
What learning and development opportunities at Sekuro have been most valuable to you?
The postgraduate Emerging Leadership program through UNSW has been the standout opportunity, with company governance studies on the horizon.
How has your manager, mentor or leadership team helped you succeed in your career?
The leadership team’s genuine, down-to-earth approach and belief in my ability to lead has been instrumental in my growth and confidence as a leader.
Success, Happiness & Advice
What do you believe are the key attributes that help someone thrive at Sekuro?
A growth mindset and the willingness to roll up your sleeves and collaborate across teams. In a flat organisation like Sekuro, those with the right attitude will learn an enormous amount.
Can you think back to a workday or Sekuro event where you had the most fun?
There’s no party like a Sekurokon After Party. After all the hard work of the ramp-up, nothing beats celebrating a successful event with the whole team letting loose together.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given which has benefited your life and/or career?
Always treat people the way you would like to be treated. And remember, leadership takes many forms. It doesn’t always look traditional; sometimes it shows up as influence, innovation, or simply bringing a fresh perspective to the table.
Looking Foward
What do you feel the future holds for the cyber industry? What will be the main differences in 5 years from now to your role and the industry?
Greater accountability from big AI companies around data collection and ethical innovation is long overdue. Expect heavier compliance requirements around AI usage, mething that will become increasingly complex for everyone to track and govern.
What excites you most about your future at Sekuro?
Global expansion and the opportunity to move into new territories.
What keeps you here at Sekuro?
The people.
