Here's how you can enhance private equity career prospects through cybersecurity measures.

An important strategy in my security program is to train new hires about the importance of cybersecurity to their career. I believe such an approach can benefit anyone in private equity (PE). PE firms, as holders of sensitive data, are prime targets for cyberattacks. Understanding these risks not only boosts career prospects, but it also leads to more sustainable growth. PE firms interact with investors and third parties. As a result, they are susceptible to social engineering attacks, such as Phishing and Business Email Compromise, which exploit human weakness to gain confidential information and impersonate trusted figures to elicit unauthorized actions. Incorporating cybersecurity knowledge can significantly enhance PE career prospects.

Private equity (PE) is an increasingly inviting target as they are perceived to be easier targets with deep pockets, and hence the focus on cybersecurity. A good cybersecurity hygiene lends more credibility and assurance in the investment strategy. Private equity (PE) cybersecurity strategy is critical in investment diligence, confidence in product, value creation and exit. Given the modern day threat landscape, any Investor (Private Equity or VC) would prefer investing in any company or a platform that is secure by design. Applying the "Secure by Design" or "Zero Trust" along with continuous compliance monitoring as a part of product development will go a long way in building the trust with PE/VC firms.

To enhance your private equity career prospects through cybersecurity measures, start by gaining a solid understanding of current cybersecurity threats and best practices. Highlight your knowledge of cybersecurity due diligence during the M&A process, showcasing your ability to identify and mitigate risks in potential investments. Obtain relevant certifications, such as CISSP or CISM, to bolster your expertise. Network with cybersecurity professionals to stay updated on industry trends. Emphasizing your cybersecurity acumen can set you apart, demonstrating your commitment to protecting investments and adding value to your firm.

It's not just the Risk Assessment, but the need for continuous compliance monitoring and real time control testing that is considered more important and critical and PE firms are looking for more evidence than just check the box to ensure risk is properly managed. While performing Risk Management, its critical to align to industry leading standards such as NIST 800-53, NIST CSF combined with industry based regulations. As much as possible, bring the element of real time, continuous and automated risk management.

Regulatory non compliance of assets can significantly erode deal value. It’s crucial to conduct a comprehensive cyber and data privacy compliance due diligence to understand risks, data handling practices, and target ability to demonstrate compliance. Keep in mind, regulatory fines can be very expensive. For example, in the case of GDPR, a severe violation can result in fines up to €20 million or 4% of the target's annual global revenue, whichever is higher.

Boosting your private equity career through cybersecurity means getting good at the technical stuff. Start by learning the basics of cybersecurity and taking courses or getting certifications to improve your skills. Keep up with the latest trends and threats in cybersecurity to stay sharp. Use what you learn to protect important financial data and systems, showing that you're skilled and serious about security. This can make you a valuable asset in private equity.

If anything is constant in cybersecurity, it's the change. It's a very dynamic and every evolving field, especially in wake of modern-day threat landscape and digital transformation. Regular learning and staying up to date latest trends is essential to stay relevant in the field of cybersecurity. Also there is an ample opportunity to learn new skills, both functional and technical, for anyone that wants to build the career in this field.