In 2024, FutureCISO dialogues with C-suite leaders including CISOs and cybersecurity practices highlight key trends in the region including AI-driven threats, increased board-level engagement, and a focus on compliance and data privacy. 

In 2025, Southeast Asia's cybersecurity landscape demands that CISOs and CIOs consider integrating cybersecurity with business objectives. 

CISOs must frame cybersecurity as a business enabler, demonstrating ROI through narratives that emphasize resilience, regulatory alignment, and sustained growth in Asia’s hyperconnected economy. In other words, CISOs must articulate their cybersecurity strategies in business terms, ensuring that security is a core element of growth and risk management.

In this PodChats for FutureCISO, we are pleased to have as our guest expert, James McLeary, Group CIO and CISO, Bumrungrad International Hospital in Thailand.

1.       Define for us what is a cybersecurity posture.

2.       What are the long-term business benefits of maintaining a robust cybersecurity posture, and how can these be articulated to stakeholders? Who are the stakeholders who should be keen/interested on cybersecurity posture?

3.       What role does compliance with regulations play in justifying cybersecurity spending, and how can/should CISOs present this to the board?

4.       Speaking of justification, how can CISOs/CIOs quantify the return on investment (ROI) of their cybersecurity initiatives to demonstrate their value to stakeholders?

5.       Is it possible to align cybersecurity investments to support the broader business objectives of the organization?

6.       Cite 3 (max) examples of how prevention offers tangible ROI of cybersecurity investments.

7.       Cite an example of a successful cyber risk narrative that CISOs can use to illustrate the business value of cybersecurity investments.

8.       IT and OT processes are increasing in complexity, do you anticipate cybersecurity solutions and processes?

The convergence of AI adoption and escalating cyber threats demands a paradigm shift in how organisations protect data and build trust. 

As AI accelerates attack sophistication—enabling automated phishing, synthetic identity fraud, and adversarial machine learning—businesses face dual challenges: hardening defences against AI-powered threats while ensuring ethical, transparent AI deployment to overcome employee scepticism. 

In Singapore and across Asia, leaders must prioritise zero-trust frameworks, AI-specific security guidelines (e.g., Singapore’s CSA lifecycle controls), and human-AI collaboration models to close critical trust gaps. 

Organisations that invest in AI governance, workforce upskilling, and proactive threat-hunting agents will gain resilience and competitive advantage, whereas those failing to address AI-driven risks or employee distrust will face operational and reputational fallout.

Joining us on PodChats for FutureCISO is Assaf Keren, CSO, Qualtrics.

Interview questions:

1.       How can organisations implement secure-by-design AI systems that comply with evolving regional regulations, such as Singapore’s CSA Guidelines?

2.       What governance lessons from past tech integrations (e.g., cloud and IoT) can be applied to mitigate risks associated with AI systems? 

3.       What strategies can effectively combat AI-automated attack chains, like multi-modal phishing campaigns, without hindering innovation in defensive AI tools? 

4.       How should cybersecurity teams balance the efficiency gains from AI-driven tools against potential risks like shadow AI deployments and data poisoning? 

5.       How can CISOs bridge the trust gap around the use of AI between leadership and employees? 

6.       Advise for CISOs to build trust.

In 2025, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations are crucial for operational leaders in Asia, as businesses face increasing pressure from regulators and investors alike. According to a recent McKinsey report, companies prioritizing ESG practices are projected to outperform their peers by 20% in the next decade. Governments across the region are implementing stricter regulations, making ESG compliance not just a choice but a necessity. Collaborations with major banks and rating agencies further enhance credibility, while technology streamlines reporting processes. Embracing ESG is not only a strategic imperative but also a pathway to sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the evolving market landscape.

Mark Blick, CEO of Diginex, shares his obvservations guiding organisations in Asia navigate the complexities of ESG execution.

Proposed questions:

1.       Challenges in ESG Adoption – What are the key barriers preventing businesses from fully embracing ESG, and what strategies can they use to overcome them?

2.       Bridging Market Gaps in ESG Ratings – What challenges do businesses face in securing credible ESG ratings, and how can rating support services address these gaps?

3.       Differentiation in ESG Solutions – In what ways can technology simplify ESG compliance and reporting processes?

4.       The Role of Strategic Partnerships – How do collaborations with major banks and regulators contribute to the acceleration of ESG adoption?

5.       The Future of ESG Investing & Technology – What emerging trends are likely to shape ESG investment over the next 5-10 years?

6.       What is your advice for organisations in Asia as far as pursuing and progressing on their ESG initiatives? Who should be part of the ESG process?

On World Backup Day 2025, the importance of robust data backup strategies for organizations in Asia becomes increasingly evident as businesses face a surge in cyber threats and data loss incidents. 

It is tasked not only in implementing advanced backup solutions but also in fostering a culture of data resilience within their organizations. By prioritizing comprehensive backup protocols, these leaders ensure that critical data remains secure and recoverable, safeguarding against potential downtime and financial loss. 

As organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation, the proactive engagement of IT leadership in backup strategies is essential for maintaining operational continuity and protecting valuable assets in an ever-evolving threat environment.

In this PodChats for FutureCIO, we are joined by Qinghong You, Solutions Engineering Lead (Greater China, ASEAN and South Korea), NetApp.

Questions covered.

1.       How is backup evolving beyond just storage (storage is cheap), focusing on data mobility, instant recovery, and AI-driven insights for proactive risk mitigation?

2.       What role does data mobility play in enhancing backup strategies, especially in hybrid cloud environments?

3.       How can enterprises enhance backup strategies with an intelligent data architecture to improve anomaly detection, automation, and cyber resilience against ransomware threats?

4.       What are the key considerations for shifting from traditional backup to an intelligent, always-available data infrastructure that minimizes downtime and ensures seamless disaster recovery?

5.       How do modern backup solutions that integrate AI technologies contribute to a resilient data infrastructure?

6.       Technology, regulation and threats continue to evolve, any last advise for CIOs and those responsible for resilience data protection in 2025.

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global event aiming to recognise women's achievements, raise awareness about gender equality and promote women's empowerment. It serves as a crucial platform for activism, highlighting enduring gender disparities and advocating for equality.

In what is now a tradition at Cxociety, we begin this year’s series with a dialogue with Wendy Lee, senior director at SS&C Blue Prism to get her perspective on women participation in the technology sector in Asia and how the IWD’s 2025 theme of "Accelerate Action" addresses the challenges and opportunities for women in Asia’s burgeoning tech space.

1.       Professionally, you’ve been in the technology sector for much of your career. Is this an active decision on your part?

2.       You have been in tech marketing for some time now, can you share some interesting lessons in your journey?

3.       In the context of women as active participants and leaders in Asia’s technology sector, how would you describe the progress so far?

4.       What are some effective ways for women in tech to network and build professional relationships that can help them access leadership roles in the industry?

5.       What is your view on mentorship? What has worked and needs more work in this area?

6.       What role do initiatives like the SG100 Women in Tech play in inspiring and empowering women to pursue careers in technology, and how can similar programs be replicated across Asia?

7.       Aspirations aside, what are the key challenges women face when leading marketing efforts for global tech/AI firms in Asia, and how can they overcome these obstacles to achieve success?

8.      IWD’s 2025 theme of "Accelerate Action" is a call to action to accelerate participation by women in leading the charge. What is your advice for women who want to pursue a career in tech?

Chief Digital Officers (CDOs) play a pivotal role in guiding organizations through digital transformation, aligning technology with business strategies to enhance competitiveness. As companies increasingly recognize the importance of digital leadership, women are making significant strides in CDO positions. 

Recent data indicates that women now represent approximately 20% of CDO roles, reflecting a positive trend towards gender diversity in technology leadership. This shift not only promotes inclusivity but also leverages diverse perspectives essential for driving innovation and success in the digital age.

In this exclusive interview with Shannon Bell, executive vice president and chief digital officer at OpenText, we look at the growing importance of CDOs in the digital transformation of businesses and industries, as well as the role women play in the evolution of the role.

1.       The future of many businesses today is defined by the extent to which they embrace digital. In your view why is this so? Why are organisations being driven to become more digital?

2.       In this digital-first society, what are the qualifications and qualities that make for a successful chief digital officer (CDO)? Do you see an overlap between the roles of a CDO to that of a Chief Transformation Officer? How about Chief Technology Officer?

3.       In your view, are women better suited to be CDOs than their male counterparts? [Please elaborate]

4.       What systemic barriers do women face in advancing to CDO positions within Asian companies?

a.       What role does corporate culture play in either facilitating or hindering women's progress to CDO roles?

5.       How can women leverage their backgrounds in marketing and customer engagement to transition into CDO positions?

6.       How important are female role models in the tech space for aspiring women leaders?

7.       What is your advice for women aspiring to become leaders? Likewise, what is your advice for male leaders in support of future women leaders?

In 2025, AI and quantum computing are transforming Asia's cybersecurity landscape, reshaping threats and roles. AI enhances defence capabilities but also fuels sophisticated attacks. Quantum computing threatens current encryption methods, necessitating a shift to quantum-safe algorithms. 

CISOs will do well to prioritize AI and quantum literacy to navigate these challenges. They must invest in post-quantum cryptography to safeguard against "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks and ensure AI defences are robust against adversarial attacks. Managing expectations while ensuring compliance is crucial as CEOs increasingly rely on these technologies for innovation and efficiency. Proactive strategies are essential for maintaining security and trust.

In this PodChats for FutureCISO, Paul Tan, head of systems integration at Ensign InfoSecurity, talks about the evolving nature of cybersecurity strategies as technologies like AI and quantum computing accelerate their influence in cybersecurity defence and offense, and redefining the cybersecurity profession.

1. Given that AI and quantum computing are rapidly reshaping the cybersecurity landscape, what immediate steps should CISOs in Asia take to ensure their teams possess the necessary AI and quantum literacy to navigate this evolving threat environment?
2. In what ways are you observing AI being leveraged by both cybersecurity defenders and malicious actors, and what proactive measures can CISOs implement to stay ahead of these dual-use applications?
3. Considering the potential vulnerabilities of AI-driven security systems to adversarial attacks like data poisoning, what strategies can CISOs employ to ensure the robustness and resilience of their AI defences?
4. As quantum computing threatens to render current encryption methods obsolete, what is your recommended timeline for organisations to transition to quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms, and what are the key challenges in implementing these systems?
5. With the advent of quantum computing, how should organisations reassess their strategies for protecting sensitive data against "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks, and what role does post-quantum cryptography play in this? Hybrid cryptography
6. How do CEOs' and business unit leaders' high expectations for AI and Quantum computing impact the CISO's role in managing expectations, integrating these technologies into operations, and ensuring regulatory compliance?
7. Let's recap: given what we know about AI and PQC, what is your advice for CISOs in 2025?

In 2025, the landscape of technology adoption is transforming rapidly, with AI and automation at the forefront of this evolution. As organizations strive for greater efficiency and innovation, the roles under the Chief Information Officer (CIO) have become pivotal in navigating this shift.

The AI market is evolving toward monetization and widespread adoption, focusing on resilience, workforce transformation, and managing regulatory changes. Priorities are being driven toward ethical AI integration, explainability, and advancing modernization, as organizations aim for responsible, compliant, and future-ready AI implementation.

IDC predicts that Asia/Pacific businesses leaders will demand up to 80% success rate of generative AI (GenAI) adoption by 2027.

"The adoption of AI and GenAI in the APJ region is driving a notable shift in business strategies and value creation. Companies are leveraging AI to boost efficiency and enrich customer experiences, opening doors to fresh growth opportunities," says Vinayaka Venkatesh, Senior Market Analyst, Data & Analytics, IDC Asia/Pacific. 

What will AI and GenAI look like in 2025? FutureCIO is pleased to be joined by Kalyan Madala, director and APAC Field CTO, IBM Software, Asia Pacific on the topic of enterprise AI values: From +AI to AI+ in the Asian Century.

1. Architecture

Challenges: What are the key architectural challenges we face in integrating AI and automation into our existing enterprise systems, and how can we overcome them?

Opportunities: How can we leverage AI-driven tools to enhance our architectural design processes, and what specific benefits can we expect in terms of efficiency and scalability?

Risks: With the increasing reliance on AI in architecture, what potential risks do we face regarding data privacy and compliance, and how can we mitigate these risks?

2. Development & Engineering

Opportunities: In what ways can AI enhance our coding and testing processes, and how can we measure the return on investment from these advancements?

Challenges: What hurdles do our development teams encounter when implementing AI and automation in the software development lifecycle, and how can we address them?

Risks: As we automate more development tasks, how do we ensure that quality and security are not compromised, particularly with the rise of AI-generated code?

3. Operations & Reliability

Opportunities: How can AI enhance our incident response and system monitoring capabilities, and what specific tools should we consider in our strategy?

Challenges: What operational challenges do we foresee in maintaining system reliability as we adopt AI-driven automation tools, and how can we prepare for them?

Risks: What are the potential risks of over-reliance on AI for operational decisions, and how can we ensure human oversight remains effective?

4. Data & Analytics

Opportunities: How can we leverage AI to uncover new insights from our data that were previously unattainable, and what processes should we put in place to act on these insights?

Challenges: What are the key challenges in ensuring data quality and governance as we implement AI-driven analytics tools, and how can we address them?

Risks: What risks do we face regarding data bias in AI models, and how can we implement strategies to ensure fairness and transparency in our analytics processes?

Imperatives for transformation tend to circle around modernising processes and systems to enable for more agile operations able to adjust to the increasingly unpredictable nature of day-to-day whether we mean unplanned downturns or new opportunities that at times seem to come out of nowhere.

With market volatility, digital disruption and regulatory uncertainty appearing to be the norm rather the exception in 2025, finance leaders will be hard pressed to accelerate transformation initiatives up and running fast.

At the heart of this transformation lies data intelligence—a critical enabler of strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. As organizations across Asia pivot toward data-driven finance, CFOs are leveraging advanced analytics, AI, and unified data strategies to secure competitive advantages while addressing regional challenges.

To learn more about data intelligence, we are pleased to be joined by Lavan Verma, head of FP&A and Data Intelligence – APAC at ManpowerGroup.

1.       How do you define data intelligence?

2.       What is data intelligence in the context of an organisation (as viewed from the Board and C-suite and operations)?

3.       How does this translate in the world of the finance function? 

4.       What is/are needed to have data intelligence in the finance function (technology, process, etc)?

5.       What are the benefits data intelligence brings to its practitioners? (viewed from a career perspective)

6.       What are the potential challenges for the CFO and finance team in the execution and delivery of data intelligence?

7.       Any best practice in the design, execution and performance of a data intelligence?

We have seen technology evolved rapidly in the last couple of years. What are your thoughts on how these technologies will influence finance in the years ahead? 
 

In 2025, Agentic AI is poised to transform the business landscape across Asia, driving unprecedented innovation and efficiency. As organizations increasingly adopt AI technologies that mimic human-like decision-making, the focus will shift from basic automation to the establishment of agentic capabilities. 

Companies will harness AI to optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and foster data-driven strategies. Emerging trends will include the integration of AI in traditional industries, a surge in data governance initiatives, and an emphasis on ethical AI practices. 

This evolution will empower organizations to navigate complex challenges and seize new opportunities in an ever-evolving market.

In this PodChats for FutureCIO, we talk to Don Ong, head of innovation at Advantest, on how Agentic AI will change the game of business innovation in 2025

Don, welcome to PodChats for FutureCIO.

Establishing Agentic Capability: What steps should organizations take to establish a true agentic capability that allows AI to learn and adapt from internal processes?

Facilitating Information Flow: How can CIOs effectively facilitate and control the flow of information between human teams and AI agents to enhance collaboration?

Capturing Analogue Data: What strategies can organizations employ to capture data from analogue processes, ensuring that Agentic AI has access to comprehensive information for learning?

Data Cleaning and Consistency: What are the best practices for cleaning and organizing data to ensure that Agentic AI can deliver meaningful insights and value?

Measuring Data Quality: What metrics should organizations use to evaluate the quality of their data?

Training Agentic AI: What methods can organizations use to train Agentic AI effectively using their own data?

Overcoming Data Silos: How can CIOs address data silos within the organization to create a unified data infrastructure that supports Agentic AI?

Challenges of Agentic AI: Where do organisations fail in their understanding and implementation of AI?

Recap: Steps that an organisation needs to prepare for the Agentic AI.

Final thought: Your advice for the non-IT people as regards Agentic AI and its value to the employee, the business

The future of finance is set for transformative changes driven by technological advancements and evolving market needs. By 2025, finance professionals can expect increased automation, enhanced data analytics, and greater emphasis on sustainability and governance. These trends will significantly impact how CFOs, accountants, and controllers operate within their organizations.

The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into financial processes promises to streamline operations and improve decision-making. Concurrently, the growing focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors will influence investment decisions and corporate strategies, requiring finance leaders to incorporate these considerations into their financial planning and reporting. As the landscape evolves, finance professionals must remain agile and forward-thinking to thrive in this dynamic environment.

In this PodChats for FutureCFO, we are joined by Andrew Harding, CEO, CIMA, to share with us his observations on Architecting an agile finance function in the age of AI 

1.       How has the roles of management accounts evolved following the pandemic, and in particular the growing adoption of AI and automation in finance functions by 2025?

2.       What challenges will finance professionals in Hong Kong face as they adapt to new technologies and regulatory requirements?

3.       How can finance leaders in Hong Kong effectively balance innovation with regulatory compliance in a rapidly changing financial landscape?

4.       What skills will be most essential for accountants and controllers to succeed in the future finance landscape in Hong Kong?

5.       What strategies should finance professionals take to enhance their value in and around functions like forecasting, risk management, planning and budgeting?

6.       In your opinion, how critical is it for finance teams to integrate ESG factors into their reporting and decision-making processes?

7.       How should finance leaders prepare for potential shifts in global economic conditions that may impact Hong Kong’s positioning in the world market?

8.       What role does CIMA play in supporting finance professionals in Hong Kong to navigate these upcoming changes?

9.       Can you share examples of best practices in management accounting that have led to successful transformations in finance functions?

A chatbot is an Artificial Intelligence program that chats with you. The 1960s saw the first chatbot. It was called ELIZA and was developed by MIT professor Joseph Weizenbaum. Six decades later, we have ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot joining the likes of Alexa and Siri.

While chatbots use pattern matching and natural language processing to interpret user inputs and choose the right responses from a set of pre-programmed options, AI agents engage in more complex, multi-step interactions that may span different platforms or services. AI agents take the next step from chatbots moving the needle of engagement between human and machines.

In this PodChats for FutureCIO, we are joined by David Irecki, chief technology officer for Asia Pacific and Japan at Boomi to walk us through the realities of AI agents – what you and I need to know, separating hype from reality.

1.       Define AI agent as understood by most users in Asia (both tech and non-tech)?

2.       What key factors differentiate AI agent hype from reality for organizations?

3.       Since you brought it up, how can businesses ensure high data quality for effective AI deployment?

4.       Scale out issues have been a recuring topic when RPAs came out and it may be part of the challenge with AI. From your experience, what common pitfalls should organizations avoid when adopting AI agents?

5.       One of the promises of AI is improving productivity – at least this is the hope. In what ways can AI agents drive productivity and cost savings in specific industries? Any pitfalls to avoid?

6.       How can AI agents enhance customer experiences across different sectors?

7.       How can businesses maintain accountability and governance while leveraging AI agents effectively?

8.       This 2025, what is your advice for lines of business, finance, IT and security work together to design or architect or transform processes so they can avail of the promise of AI agents without introducing unnecessary risks in the process?

In 2025, the integration of AI into the finance function in Asia has the potential to reshape operational frameworks and decision-making processes. Current industry research suggests that AI technologies are gaining traction among finance professionals navigating a complex landscape marked by rapid change.

At FutureCFO, we will likely see finance practitioners dabble in emerging technologies in the quest to enhance real-time decision-making, optimise invoice-to-cash and source-to-pay workflows, and allows CFOs to prioritise strategic initiatives over routine tasks. 

Emerging trends such as autonomous finance, predictive analytics, and the application of AI in fraud detection are becoming vital components of this transformation.

Organisations that effectively harness these innovations are expecting to see marked improvements in efficiency, facilitate more rapid adherence to evolving compliance regulations, and remain competitive in a fast-evolving market. 

In this PodChats for FutureCFO, we will delve into the practical implications of AI in the finance in 2025. Joining us on this edition of PodChats for FutureCFO, is Charlie Cheah, managing director for Esker Asia.

Interview questions for the podcast interview.

1.       As of end of 2024, what do CFOs and finance leaders in Asia think about AI for use in the finance function?

2.       What emerging trends in AI should CFOs be aware of to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving financial landscape of 2025, particularly regarding compliance and risk management?

3.       How do you see AI impacting advancements in robotic process automation (RPA) to streamline invoice-to-cash and source -to-pay processes for finance leaders?

4.       How can financial leaders effectively integrate AI technologies into their existing systems while fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within their teams?

5.       How should CFOs evaluate on-going investment strategies around AI? Any suggestions on how to futureproof such investments?

6.       What are the implications of autonomous finance on traditional finance roles, and how should CFOs prepare for these changes?

7.       Anything else?

As organizations in Asia prepare for 2025, the landscape of work is undergoing significant transformation. According to Gartner's 2025 HR Priorities Survey, a staggering 87% of HR leaders agree that shifting business needs necessitate continuous transformation within their organizations. 

This imperative extends beyond HR, influencing all functional leaders who must adapt to a rapidly evolving environment characterized by technological advancements, changing workforce dynamics, and heightened expectations for organizational culture.

In this context, it is crucial for leaders across all functions to engage with the pressing challenges of leadership development, workforce planning, and change management. 

By addressing these critical areas, organizations can foster a resilient and agile workforce capable of navigating the complexities of the future. 

In this PodChats for FutureCOO, Ms. Isabelle Claus (KLAUS) Teixiera (TEISERA), Founder and Managing Director, at Business and Human Development Consulting, shares tips to guide functional leaders in aligning their strategies with the evolving demands of the marketplace, ensuring they are well-equipped to drive sustainable success in 2025 and beyond.

1.       How would you describe the HR landscape in 2024? What has been most interesting, most difficult and most rewarding issues of 2024?

2.       A common recognition by IT and finance leaders is the issue of talent shortage. I imagine this is not limited to these two functions. In 2024, how did HR leaders in Asia meet these challenges?

3.       Leaders tell us that change management is an ongoing issue for them. Why is that so?

4.       What strategies can HR implement to create a strong organisational culture that aligns with the company’s business goals?

5.       Coming into 2025, how can HR leaders enhance workforce planning processes to anticipate future talent needs and capability gaps?

As Asia's enterprises prepare for the dynamic landscape of 2025, workforce modernisation emerges as a critical priority. The rapid evolution of technology, shifting employee expectations, and the need for agility demand that functional leaders—especially CHROs and COOs—reassess their strategies. 

By addressing key questions about workplace evolution, leadership roles, technological integration, and organisational culture, businesses can position themselves to thrive in a competitive environment.

In this PodChats for FutureCOO, we are joined by Shan Moorthy, CTO for APAC at Workday to share his views on how organisations can futureproof their workforce modernisation efforts.

Questions for Workforce Modernisation

1.       Describe the workplace of 2024 in Asia and how it has evolved over the years?

2.       How has the role of the CHRO and the COO evolved during this period? How have these changes impacted the relationship between the CHRO and COO?

3.       What role does technology play in workforce modernisation efforts? How can organisations ensure that its HR technology meets current and future business needs?

4.       Given these technologies will become increasingly embedded in workflows, what metrics can leaders use to measure the effectiveness of its workforce modernisation initiatives?

5.    What will the workplace look like in 2025 and what is your advice for functional leaders to prepare for this future? 

In 2025, the role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in Asia will continue to evolve from traditional financial stewardship to a strategic leadership position. As businesses face rapid digital transformation and economic fluctuations, CFOs are expected to integrate advanced technologies like AI and big data analytics into financial decision-making processes. 

This shift enables them to provide real-time insights and drive value creation. Moreover, CFOs will play a crucial role in sustainability efforts, aligning financial strategies with corporate social responsibility. By fostering cross-functional collaboration, they will enhance resilience and innovation, ensuring organizations navigate the complexities of the Asian market effectively.

In this PodChats for FutureCFO, we are joined by Izzad Shamsudin, chief financial officer at KPJ Healthcare Berhad to share with us his observations, experiences and learnings in his journey towards becoming a chief financial officer. 

1.       Name the top 3 pathways to becoming a finance leader.

2.       Name 3 essential skills beyond technical expertise.

3.       How do you navigate key career transitions?

4.       Briefly describe the changing landscape of finance leadership. What has been most challenging?

5.       What, for you, has been the most important strategy for success in the C-suite?

6.       What, for you, will be interesting to expect in 2025?

7.       What is your advice for other finance leaders in 2025?

With its unprecedented speeds, lower latency, and ability to support a greater number of simultaneous connections, WiFi7 may well be the answer to Asia’s rapid urbanization and the increasing adoption of IoT devices, offering businesses the capacity to support seamless operations and improve collaboration across various sectors.

CIOs and heads of infrastructure must recognize the strategic implications of integrating WiFi7 into their connectivity strategies. Higher data rates and advanced features like Multi-Link Operation (MLO) can significantly enhance user experience, leading to improved customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. 

By addressing key considerations—such as security, budget impacts, and staff training—leaders can effectively harness WiFi7 to not only meet current demands but also unlock new business models and opportunities for growth in an increasingly connected landscape.

In this PodChats for FutureIoT, Sanjiv Verma, vice president of RUCKUS Networks, APAC, CommScope, discusses key considerations for infrastructure heads looking to tap WiFi7’s promises.

1.       What are the specific business needs that Wi-Fi 7 promises to address within organisations in Asia?

2.       How will the increased capacity of Wi-Fi 7 affect existing network infrastructure?

3.       Provide 1 or 2 best practices for ensuring seamless integration of Wi-Fi 7 with existing applications and services.

4.       What potential challenges should we anticipate during the transition to Wi-Fi 7?

5.       What security measures should organisations implement to protect our network while rolling out Wi-Fi 7?

6.       How will the deployment of Wi-Fi 7 impact the IT budget and resource allocation?

7.       What training will be required to manage and maintain a Wi-Fi 7 network?

8.       What is the projected ROI for upgrading to Wi-Fi 7 compared to keeping what is in place today?

9.       How can businesses leverage Wi-Fi 7 to create new business models or improve existing services?

10.   Can you share views on what we can expect around connectivity in the next 2-3 years?

Financial transformation has emerged as a critical imperative for organizations in 2024, driven by the need to adapt to rapidly changing economic conditions, technological advancements, and evolving business landscapes. 

Coming into 2025, as CFOs face pressure to do more with less while driving growth and maintaining compliance, they are turning to digital solutions and holistic approaches to reshape and modernize financial processes. This transformation goes beyond simply adopting new technologies; it requires a fundamental rethinking of how finance functions operate and contribute to overall business success.

In this PodChats for FutureCFO, we are joined by Ms Giselle Arellano-Geronimo, vice president- head of finance, accounting and procurement for Shearwater Health, as she walks us through what it takes to become a transformative finance leader in 2025.

1.       What is a transformative leader? Do you consider yourself one?

2.       In your view, can one be a transactional leader and be an equally transformational leader?

a.       Who is your one role model for a transformational leader?

3.       What metric should one use to gauge whether we have what it takes to be a transformative leader? 

a.       List must have and nice to have qualities.

4.       In building the next generation of leaders, what do you look for as qualities/traits worth building upon?

5.       How do you nurture people to become transformative leaders (even if they are not aware and may not necessarily have the initial desires to be one)? 

a.       How would you address resistance to become one?

6.       Speaking of opportunity, do you agree that everyone, at all levels of an organization, can be transformational leaders for their teams/colleagues?

7.       In closing, what is your advice for others listening to this PodChats on the topic of becoming a transformative finance leader in 2025?

Contrary to their predictive decline in value, a 2024 Forrester report noted that among global infrastructure hardware decision-makers, 61% said that their firm uses a mainframe. Of those that use mainframes, 54% indicated that their organisation would increase its use of a mainframe over the next two years”.

With 71% of Fortune 500 companies still using mainframes, advancing technologies and evolving business drivers in 2024 highlight the challenges posed by neglecting mainframe modernisation that can lead to operational inefficiencies and risks, making it imperative for decision-makers to act decisively in embracing transformation. 

In this PodChats for FutureCIO, we are joined by Praveen Kumar, Vice President for Asia Pacific, Rocket Software, who will pontificate on the importance of mainframe modernisation as a business-critical priority in 2025.

1.       How can CIOs align their mainframe modernisation efforts with the organisations’ broader digital transformation strategy, especially as they integrate AI technologies?

2.       What specific benefits can be drawn from modernising mainframe systems regarding operational efficiency and cost reduction?

3.       How should CIOs and HR leaders address the skills gap associated with legacy programming languages as they transition to more modern platforms?

4.       What strategies can they implement to smooth migration from legacy mainframe environments to cloud-based solutions?

5.       How can CIOs and CISOs leverage AI to enhance the performance and security of modernised mainframe systems?

6.       What role do external partners play in facilitating mainframe modernisation, and name one approach to help select the right ones?

7.       What metrics should CIOs use to measure the success of their mainframe modernisation efforts?

As we move deeper into the digital age, the significance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated, particularly in Asia, a continent characterized by its diverse cultures and rapidly evolving economies. By 2025, fostering community cybersecurity readiness will be crucial for several reasons, including protecting economic stability, safeguarding cultural heritage, and enhancing social cohesion amidst the growing threats posed by cybercrime.

Sharing with us his views on just how organisations can do their part to raise community cybersecurity readiness, we are pleased to be joined by Matthias Chia, director of Strategy at the SANS Institute.

What is the SANS Institute in the context of cybersecurity?

1.       How would you assess the level of awareness and interest in cybersecurity among communities in Asia?

2.       In what ways can technology companies collaborate with educational institutions to enrich cybersecurity training?

3.       How can we measure the impact of community engagement in improving cybersecurity awareness and practices?

4.       What strategies can we implement to motivate young people to pursue careers in cybersecurity?

5.       Do you think there is, today, adequate and equitable access to cybersecurity training for all youth, especially in underserved communities?

6.       Recalling NIST’s efforts to partner with public and private organisations, can you elaborate on the role strategic partnerships play in enhancing cybersecurity resilience within local communities?

7.       At the national level, what is the role of public-private partnerships in strengthening national cybersecurity efforts?

8.       We are coming into 2025, any call to action for businesses, governments, and the communities of Asia in general on how everyone can contribute to raising community cybersecurity readiness in 2025?

Gartner defines privileged access management (PAM) as tools that provide an elevated level of technical access through the management and protection of accounts, credentials and commands used to administer or configure systems and applications. 

Available as software, SaaS or hardware appliances, PAM tools manage privileged access for both people (system administrators and others) and machines (systems or applications). 

Gartner defines four distinct tool categories for PAM tools: privileged account and session management (PASM), privilege elevation and delegation management (PEDM), secrets management, and cloud infrastructure entitlement management (CIEM).

It is widely expected that in 2025, PAM will be shaped by advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation, enabling more proactive and adaptive security measures. As regulatory compliance becomes more stringent across various industries in Asia, organizations will be compelled to adopt robust PAM solutions to safeguard sensitive data and ensure accountability. The convergence of hybrid work environments and cloud technologies will also necessitate re-evaluating PAM strategies, emphasizing the need for flexible yet secure access controls.

In this PodChats for FutureCISO, Phil Calvin, Chief Product Officer, Delinea, shares his views on some of CISOs' approaches when modernising PAM strategies for a security-first world.

1.       How have PAM tools and strategies evolved in the last two years following hybrid work, the shift to the cloud, and more recently the heightened interest in AI, ML and automation?

2.       For those that have already started to embed AI, ML and automation into their PAM strategies, what has worked and not worked?

3.       Any lessons learned when it comes to integration AI and ML into existing PAM implementations?

4.       What metrics should CISOs use to measure the effectiveness of their PAM solutions and practices?

5.       Given the heightened interest around data privacy and protection, but disparate guidelines and frameworks, what steps should CISOs/enterprises take to ensure compliance with regional regulations concerning privileged access? 

6.       How can CISOs ensure that their PAM solutions are scalable as the organization grows?

7.       What role does zero-trust play in PAM strategies and how do you see zero trust evolving in 2025 to PAM implementations?

8.       How do you see enterprises leveraging identity governance to strengthen their PAM initiatives? 

9.       Our topic is modernising PAM strategies for a security-first world, what’s in store for Privilege Access Management in 2025?

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2024 unfolds, it is critical for organizations, especially in Asia, to emphasize the tangible business value of cybersecurity investments. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue; it is a fundamental aspect of business resilience and growth. 

Demonstrating the return on investment (ROI) from cybersecurity initiatives can help secure ongoing support from stakeholders, drive informed decision-making, and foster a culture of security within the organization. By clearly articulating how cybersecurity investments protect assets, ensure compliance, and enhance customer trust, CISOs and CIOs can align security strategies with broader business objectives.

In this PodChats for FutureCISO, Steve Wilson, chief product officer at Exabeam, offers his take on how to demonstrate the business value of cybersecurity investments.

Key Questions for CISOs and CIOs

1. What is the current practice for quantifying the ROI of cybersecurity investments?
2. Is it possible to leverage cybersecurity investments to gain competitive advantage?
3. What metrics can be used to measure the effectiveness of cybersecurity programs?
4. What is a quick win in cybersecurity and what strategies can be implemented to demonstrate quick wins in cybersecurity?
5. How can CISOs/CIOs align cybersecurity goals with overall business objectives?
6. What is the most effective way to communicate cybersecurity risks to non-technical stakeholders?
7. What frameworks or standards can CISOs/CIOs adopt to benchmark their cybersecurity efforts?
8. What partnerships or collaborations can enhance an organisation’s cybersecurity capabilities?
9. We are coming into 2025, how can CISOs/CIOs ensure that their cybersecurity investments are scalable and future-proof?
10. What is your vision in your role as chief product officer for Exabeam?

As we enter a new era defined by rapid advancements in generative AI, the landscape of cybersecurity is evolving at an unprecedented pace. These powerful tools, capable of creating content and automating tasks, present both opportunities and significant risks for organizations across Asia. 

With the potential for misuse in generating deepfakes, phishing attacks, and automated malware, cybersecurity leaders must prioritize robust strategies to safeguard their digital environments. Emphasizing a proactive approach that includes continuous monitoring, employee training, and the implementation of AI-driven security solutions will be crucial. In this dynamic environment, fostering collaboration between technology developers and cybersecurity professionals will ensure that the benefits of generative AI are harnessed responsibly, allowing organizations to thrive while minimizing vulnerabilities.

In this PodChats for FutureCISO, Terry Ray, Data Security CTO and Fellow at Imperva, shares his perspective on how to secure the new frontier with generative AI in 2025 and beyond.

1.       We’ve heard snippets of warnings. Perhaps you can elaborate more on the potential risks associated with the misuse of generative AI among organizations in Asia?

2.       Can you share one or two best practices for assessing the effectiveness of existing security measures against AI-driven attacks?

3.       In Asia, how do you see regulations and compliance requirements evolving concerning generative AI and data security?

4.       For organisations in Asia regardless of size, what remains as key challenges with the rise of AI as a cybersecurity tool to protect against cyberattacks?

5.       What are available options for organisations to ensure the integrity of data used to train generative AI models?

6.       Specific to data protection strategies, what role will generative AI play in incident response plans?

7.       What incident response case studies exist that highlight generative AI threats, and what can we learn from them?

8.       Speaking of phishing, malwares and hyper targeting, what ethical considerations should CIOs and CISOs account for when deploying generative AI in security operations?

9.       How will the adoption of generative AI affect organisations’ overall cybersecurity budget and resource allocation?

10.   Any final thoughts for AI in cybersecurity in 2025?

In today's digital landscape, fostering a security-aware culture is paramount for organizations in Asia. CIOs and CISOs play a crucial role in embedding cybersecurity into the organizational ethos. This involves not only implementing robust security measures but also promoting continuous education and awareness among employees. 

By cultivating an environment where security is a shared responsibility, organizations can better mitigate risks and respond effectively to threats. Encouraging open communication about security practices and integrating them into daily operations enhances resilience. 

Ultimately, a proactive security culture empowers employees to act as the first line of defense against cyber threats.

In this PodChats for FutureCISO, Ben King, VP for Cybersecurity Trust & Culture at Okta shares his perspective on how to foster a security-aware culture.

Ben, welcome to PodChats for FutureCISO.

1.       Where are enterprises today in Asia-Pacific, when it comes to creating and maintaining an acceptable level of security awareness among staff?

2.       What, for you, is a security-aware culture?

3.       Does it make sense to have a one-person and what role should leadership play in promoting a security-aware culture?

4.       How do organisations measure the effectiveness of their current cybersecurity training programs?

5.       What strategies have worked (not worked) to engage employees in cybersecurity awareness initiatives?

6.       How can organisations integrate security awareness into onboarding for new employees? Is this a job for HR? How and at what point should CIOs and CISOs get involved?

7.       What are the challenges organisations will face in fostering a security-aware culture in a diverse workforce and where hybrid workplace is the norm?

8.       What best practices can we adopt from organisations that excel in security culture?

9.       What metrics should organisations use to track and evaluate improvements in security-aware culture?

10.   Do carrots work better than sticks when it comes to foster a sustained security-aware culture?

11.   Coming into 2025, we can security to continue to take importance for all organisations and functions. What is your expectation in the development of security-aware cultures?

Cybersecurity resilience refers to an organization's ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents while continuing to operate effectively. This resilience is not merely about having robust security measures in place; it also involves fostering a culture of security awareness and agility within the organization. As businesses undergo transformations—whether through digital transformation, mergers and acquisitions, or shifts in workforce dynamics—cybersecurity strategies must evolve concurrently.

The challenge lies in ensuring that security protocols do not hinder operational agility. Organizations must be able to pivot quickly in response to market demands, technological advancements, or unforeseen disruptions while maintaining a strong security posture. This balance is crucial for minimizing risks and protecting against potential cyber threats that can exploit vulnerabilities during periods of change.

Key Considerations for Achieving Cybersecurity Resilience

To navigate this complex landscape, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and security professionals must consider several critical questions:

Mark Jobbins, Chief Technology Officer & Vice President, Asia Pacific & Japan, Pure Storage

1.       Given us a state of the cybersecurity landscape in Asia in 2024.

2.       How should a CISO define cybersecurity resilience?

a.       What is agility in the context of cybersecurity from the perspective of a CISO?

3.       How should CISOs assess and prioritize risks associated with rapid changes in technology or business operations?

4.       What security frameworks and standards should organisations adopt to ensure compliance while remaining flexible, and without compromising agility?

5.       How can organisations integrate security into their agile development processes without slowing down innovation (or creating unnecessary friction between operations, development and security teams)?

6.       With the threat landscape continuing to escalate threat and both sides (attackers and defenders) having access to the same technologies, how should CISOs architect the company’s cyber resilience strategy to stay ahead of the threat?

7.       Balancing agility with security during periods of significant change, as a Chief Technology Officer, can you share your views/expectations around security and resiliency in 2025?