Vaibhav Singh Bhadauria is a distinguished cybersecurity leader and the Chief Information & Security Officer at Total Credit Recovery Limited. With a deep expertise in financial services, enterprise risk management, and AI-driven security innovation, he has been instrumental in strengthening compliance, resilience, and digital transformation strategies. A recognized thought leader, Vaibhav actively bridges technology with business growth, fostering cross-border collaboration between Canada and India. Beyond his corporate role, he mentors aspiring professionals, advocates for cybersecurity awareness, and contributes to community development, education, and heritage preservation. His leadership continues to shape the future of security, risk management, and technological advancement.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Vaibhav shared his professional journey, insights into the potential risks and challenges associated with emerging technologies and how they can be mitigated, personal hobbies and interests, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Vaibhav. What inspired you to pursue a career in information and cyber security, and how have you seen the field evolve over time?
My journey into information and cybersecurity was driven by a deep curiosity about how technology can be both an enabler and a risk factor in today’s interconnected world. Early on, I was fascinated by the evolving landscape of digital threats and the challenge of staying ahead of adversaries. Cybersecurity isn’t just about defense—it’s about strategy, resilience, and ensuring that organizations can thrive in a digital world. Over time, I’ve seen the field transform from being a purely technical discipline to a business enabler, shaping strategic decisions and ensuring operational resilience. The increasing sophistication of cyber threats, combined with regulatory complexities, has reinforced the need for security to be integrated into the core fabric of organizations.
What do you love the most about your current role?
What I love most about my current role is the ability to drive security as a business enabler rather than just a compliance function. Working at the intersection of technology, risk, and strategy, I get to shape policies that protect sensitive information while ensuring seamless operations. Leading a team of dedicated professionals and fostering a security-first culture across the organization is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing security embedded into business processes and witnessing its positive impact on client trust and regulatory compliance is what drives me every day.
What role do you believe security leaders will play in shaping the future of business and technology, and how can they prepare for this shift?
Security leaders are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of business and technology. As digital transformation accelerates, security must evolve from being a gatekeeper to an enabler of innovation. Leaders in this space need to anticipate risks associated with emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and cloud computing while ensuring organizations remain agile and competitive. Preparing for this shift requires a balance of technical expertise, regulatory acumen, and business strategy. The ability to communicate security risks in a way that resonates with executives and board members will be a crucial differentiator. Security leaders must also focus on embedding security into digital initiatives from the ground up rather than treating it as an afterthought.
What are some common misconceptions or myths about security and compliance that you’d like to debunk?
One of the biggest misconceptions about security and compliance is that they are roadblocks to innovation. Many believe that security is solely about restrictions when, in reality, it is about enabling businesses to take calculated risks while ensuring resilience. Another myth is that compliance equals security—meeting regulatory requirements is just the baseline; true security goes beyond checkboxes and involves continuous monitoring, threat intelligence, and proactive risk management. There’s also the notion that cyber threats are purely external when, in reality, insider threats—whether intentional or accidental—pose a significant risk. Lastly, some believe that cybersecurity is purely an IT function when, in truth, it requires a company-wide culture of security awareness and accountability.
Can you share your thoughts on the potential risks and challenges associated with emerging technologies, and how security leaders can mitigate these risks while still realizing the benefits of innovation?
Emerging technologies bring immense potential but also introduce new risks. AI, for example, is revolutionizing cybersecurity, but it also presents challenges such as adversarial AI and deepfake threats. The growing adoption of IoT and cloud computing expands the attack surface, making traditional perimeter-based security models obsolete. To mitigate these risks, security leaders must focus on embedding security into the development lifecycle, leveraging automation for threat detection, and fostering a culture of security awareness. Adopting a zero-trust architecture, implementing continuous monitoring, and ensuring strong identity and access management practices are essential strategies. Balancing security with innovation requires a proactive, risk-based approach rather than reactive measures.
How do you approach leadership and team management, and what qualities do you believe are essential for effective leadership in security?
Leadership in security is about more than just technical expertise—it’s about inspiring, mentoring, and fostering a culture of accountability. My leadership philosophy is built on collaboration, continuous learning, and adaptability. A great security leader must be able to translate complex risks into business language, advocate for security at the executive level, and empower teams to take ownership of security initiatives. Emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of business priorities are essential qualities for leading effectively in this field. I also believe in leading by example—demonstrating resilience, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to lifelong learning helps build a high-performing team that stays ahead of evolving threats.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
I am incredibly grateful to the mentors and peers who have supported my journey. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside visionary leaders and industry experts who have challenged me to think beyond conventional security approaches. Their guidance has played a crucial role in shaping my leadership style and approach to risk management. The cybersecurity field thrives on collaboration, and I am thankful for the knowledge-sharing and support I have received along the way.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
Outside of work, I am passionate about fostering innovation, mentoring aspiring cybersecurity professionals, and contributing to the tech community. Beyond my professional interests, I enjoy initiatives that bridge technology with community development. I also have a strong connection to cultural and social programs that drive meaningful impact. Staying engaged in these areas allows me to give back and help shape the next generation of technology leaders.
What is your biggest goal? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
My biggest goal is to continue driving transformative security strategies that shape the future of financial services and beyond. In five years, I see myself taking on a broader leadership role where I can influence industry-wide cybersecurity policies and best practices. My focus will remain on strengthening the intersection of security, risk management, and business strategy, ensuring that organizations can innovate securely while maintaining resilience against evolving threats. I also aim to mentor and develop the next generation of security professionals, contributing to a stronger and more adaptive cybersecurity ecosystem.
What advice would you give to individuals looking to break into the field of information and cybersecurity?
For those looking to break into cybersecurity, my advice is to cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field, and staying ahead requires curiosity and persistence. Gain hands-on experience through labs, certifications, and internships. Develop both technical and soft skills—understanding risk management, regulatory landscapes, and communication is just as important as mastering security tools. Networking with industry professionals, joining security communities, and seeking mentorship can also accelerate growth in this field. Most importantly, approach security as a business enabler rather than just a technical function—it’s this perspective that will set you apart as a leader in the industry.