Jeanie Anirudhan is a Cybersecurity and IT technology leader at Pepsico.Inc. She is currently the Senior Manager and Chief of Staff for Pepsico’s Information Security Global Cyberfusion Center. Jeanie has led IT project management offices and created governance structures for IT organizations during her career. Jeanie has a passion for growing emerging female technology leaders and women in STEM careers and is Director of Governance at DFW Alliance for Technology and Women. Her strengths include strategy development, and global business transformation and delivery. Jeanie has a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Maryland, a Master’s in Business Administration, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and a Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Jeanie shared her professional trajectory, insights on diversity and inclusion in tech, the best piece of advice she has ever received, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Jeanie. Can you walk us through your background and what you’re most passionate about in your work?
I am a senior technology and transformation leader at PepsiCo, Inc., currently serving as the Senior Manager and Chief of Staff for PepsiCo’s Information Security Global Cyberfusion Center. I have extensive experience leading IT project management offices and establishing governance structures within cybersecurity and IT organizations. I am passionate about fostering the growth of emerging female technology leaders and women in STEM careers, as well as strategizing and delivering large-scale global transformation initiatives in technology.
What aspects of your current role bring you the most joy and fulfillment?
I enjoy developing organizational strategy and leading cross-functional global teams to deliver critical business results and secure PepsiCo.
What are the three major trends do you foresee in your industry in the next 12 months?
Cybersecurity is challenged to evolve and adapt, staying ahead of bad actors to defend and protect critical infrastructure and assets worldwide. The demand for skilled technical employees in cybersecurity will continue to surpass supply, reaching a critical phase. Communication and organizational skills remain a significant challenge in the field; it is essential for cybersecurity leaders to effectively communicate with corporate boards and the C-Suite in their language. The threat landscape related to human risk management will continue to expand, with advancements in phishing and ransomware.
You are a Director at DFW Alliance of Technology and Women. Can you please tell us about this organization and your role in it?
DFW Alliance of Technology and Women (DFW*ATW) is committed to quality programs and education for girls and women to increase the number of women professionals in technology fields. I have been involved with the organization since 2017. As their Director of Governance, I am responsible for leading their governance framework, the development of Board policies and procedures, and overseeing the Board nomination and election processes.
What are your thoughts on diversity and inclusion? How important is it to have authentic conversations with leaders, professionals, and changemakers to create more acceptance across the globe?
Successful organizations achieve the highest levels of innovation and effectiveness when they integrate diversity of thought and perspective into their everyday culture and practices. It is crucial to maintain ongoing conversations about diversity at all organizational levels. Great leaders should model diversity by fostering open dialogues, actively listening, and encouraging individuals to voice their opinions, even when they differ from the majority. Most importantly, for diversity and inclusion to thrive and be sustainable, they must be linked to corporate rewards and recognition systems. This approach ensures that diversity moves from being a topic of discussion to being integrated into daily work practices.
In your academic or work career, were there any mentors who have helped you grow along the way? What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I have had many mentors over the years, both within and outside my organization, whose support and guidance I greatly appreciate. I have benefited from a “mentoring council,” a group of mentors who have assisted me with various topics and aspects of life throughout my career. I have received a wealth of valuable feedback and advice, with the underlying theme being to “go with your gut” in both personal and professional matters, and to “follow your passion.”
What’s a leadership lesson that you’ve learnt that’s unique to being a female leader?
One leadership lesson unique to being a female leader is the importance of authenticity. Embracing and showcasing your true self, including your unique perspectives and experiences, can be incredibly powerful. It helps build trust and credibility with your team and peers. Additionally, as a female leader, you often have the opportunity to champion diversity and inclusion more effectively, using your position to advocate for and support other women and underrepresented groups in the workplace. This not only fosters a more inclusive environment but also drives innovation and success within the organization.
What is your biggest stress reliever?
Yoga, exercising and spending time with family.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
I am an innate learner and have had many different twists and turns in my career. I like to think of my life in increments of 1-2 years. In the next 2 years, I hope to be involved with next generation of cybersecurity including AI and data privacy.
What advice would you give to anyone starting out on their career in your industry?
Take the time to grow and learn in your current role as broad or as deep as you need to be, plan for your future role but do not be hyper focused on promotions and titles early in your career. Enjoy what you do and live in the moment.