No matter how advanced the technology is, it can all fall apart without strong security: Kavitha Ayappan, CISO, Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company

Cybersecurity has traditionally been dominated by men, with women often facing challenges in gaining visibility and leadership roles. Today, that narrative is changing as trailblazing women step forward to lead, innovate, and redefine the future of the industry. One such trailblazer is Kavitha Ayappan, Chief Information Security Officer at Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company. With a career rooted in a diverse blend of IT, risk management, and governance, her journey into cybersecurity has been driven by both a deep sense of purpose and a passion for protecting people and their trust. 

From securing remote work during the pandemic to leading resilient crisis responses like the Chennai floods, her leadership has consistently prioritised trust, collaboration, and innovation. Through challenges like ransomware, regulatory compliance, and fostering internal alignment, she has not only protected critical infrastructure but reshaped how cybersecurity is integrated into business strategy. As a mentor and advocate ...