How Vishal Gupta established Seclore Technology as a leader in data loss prevention

(December 14, 2024) From going to school in small towns in North India to founding a global tech company, Vishal Gupta has come a long way. Vishal is the CEO of Seclore, a SaaS company that builds data security software for enterprises that was recognized back in 2012 by Deloitte as one of the fastest-growing companies in Asia. IN 2016, he relocated to Silicon Valley to grow his business in the US and now splits his time between Santa Clara, California, and Mumbai. In 2024, the Seclore won the data security solution of the year award from the Cybersecurity Breakthrough Awards. Now a leading provider of data-centric security solutions, Seclore also provides sophisticated compliance controls that give companies the ability to meet current as well as future cybersecurity and data privacy regulations.

He made the most of this diverse upbringing, seeing an opportunity to learn how to understand and adapt to various cultures. Vishal was also a good student, and after graduating from St Joseph’s Academy in Dehradun, he made the cut at IIT-Bombay. In 1999, one year before he graduated, he met Abhiji Tannu, with whom he would co-found his first company Herald Logic. “Each step in my career journey has been guided by a combination of passion, expertise and a relentless drive to excel in the tech industry,” Gupta tells Global Indian. And his international work experience in India, Singapore, London and the US, has played an undeniable role in shaping both his professional and personal development.

Vishal Gupta, co-founder, Seclore

Incubated at the college campus, Herald Logic grew ino a market leader in sales as well as market management. After graduating from IIT Gupta moved to Singapore to develop his company there. In 2006, Herald Logic was acquired by an Australian company, and Gupta spent a couple of years as an angel investor for Indian startups, apart from working on a new idea with Tannu. “This exposure has broadened my perspective, honed my communication skills, and equipped me with a global mindset that is essential for navigating today’s interconnected business landscape. My international experiences have not only enriched my professional skill set but have also contributed to my ability to lead a multinational team effectively at Seclore,” he adds.

Building Seclore

In 2008, Tannu and Gupta were reaching out to a major client – Reliance Capital, with Seclore’s first product, FileSecure. Seclore was focussed on date-centric cybersecurity – and the idea they were pitching sounded pretty unbelievable. Potential clients couldn’t wrap their heads around being able to protect data they had already sent out – eventually, this product would go on to change the way companies protect information.

Gupta’s idea was to send out a practical demo – they emailed the executive a set of documents and asked him to open it through his own servers. The executive tried and failed. And the founders had got the attention of Reliance Capital. There was no looking back after that. Five years later, Seclore was selected by TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs), an entrepreneurship trade body that spots potential billion-dollar companies and mentors them. It also gives these founders a chance to grow their businesses in the US, allowing one of them to move to Silicon Valley and be mentored by leaders from companies like SAP, Salesforce and Microsoft. In 2016, Gupta relocated to the US to set up operations there, and now splits his time between Santa Clara, California, and Mumbai, India.

Seclore, the leading provider of data-centric security solutions, sets a new standard for enterprises worldwide by providing enhanced compliance controls and reporting capabilities. Photo: CXO Today

“Through my tenure at Seclore, I have held various roles and responsibilities, gradually progressing to my current position as CEO,” he says. As a leader, Gupta is motivated by the opportunity to make a tangible impact in the information security industry and lead Seclore Technology towards greater success and innovation. “The trust and confidence placed in me by our investors, board of directors, and the Seclore team serve as significant driving forces that push me to work harder and overcome challenges. Moreover, my intrinsic drive for continuous improvement and growth plays a crucial role in keeping me motivated. I am constantly seeking new opportunities to learn, evolve, and develop both personally and professionally, which propels me forward in my leadership journey,” he explains.

Navigating the Course

For someone who strives for excellence in all he does, he believes it is important to demonstrate integrity, resilience, and a strong work ethic. “Leadership is not just about holding a title; it is about inspiring and empowering others, fostering a positive work culture, and driving meaningful change within your organisation and industry,” he says. Naturally, overcoming challenges as a CEO requires a multifaceted approach. “I draw from my diverse skill set, which includes strategic thinking, effective communication, and resilience, to address obstacles as they arise. Seeking support from mentors, peers, and industry experts also provides valuable insights and guidance in navigating through difficult situations. Additionally, fostering a culture of open dialogue, collaboration, and feedback within the team plays a vital role in addressing challenges effectively. By maintaining transparency and encouraging innovation, we can leverage our collective strengths to overcome obstacles and drive the company forward,” he adds.

Building Relations

Vishal Gupta and Abhijit Tannu of Seclore

Throughout his career, Gupta has learned several valuable lessons that have shaped his approach as a leader. “One prominent lesson is the importance of fostering strong relationships with investors and the board of directors to ensure a solid foundation for the company’s financial health and strategic direction. Moreover, effective public relations and brand management are essential for enhancing the company’s reputation and market presence. Additionally, strategic business development and sales and marketing efforts play crucial roles in driving company growth and expansion,” he says.

It has helped that his career journey has provided him with insights into the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasising the importance of relationship-building, strategic thinking, market awareness, and a comprehensive understanding of business operations. In his free time, he enjoys staying updated on information security trends, exploring new gadgets, and engaging in physical activities such as swimming and squash. “Balancing these interests with my professional responsibilities allows me to maintain a well-rounded lifestyle and recharge for the challenges ahead. By incorporating these diverse interests into my life, I can approach my work with renewed energy and enthusiasm, contributing to both my personal well-being and professional growth,” he concludes.

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