Discover the latest innovations, tech practices, marketing trends, and more in our exclusive interview series, ExtraMile by HiTechNectar, featuring industry leaders.
For today’s discussion, we are glad to have Thumeera Thirumal, Vice President – CISO & Head of Operations at Mage Data, with us. The company is a leading provider of test data management that prioritizes data security and privacy. With cutting-edge solutions, Mage Data strengthens organizations to stay compliant with privacy regulations without overlooking data security.
Thumeera has been associated with the IT industry for more than two decades, with notable contributions to the fields of product development and deployment, program management, formulating agile methodologies, and more. As one of the core members of Mage Data’s leadership team, she has integrated effective engineering procedures, optimizing organizational operations and workflows.
Explore Thumeera’s expertise in the IT and tech sectors, alongside gaining valuable insights into fruitful business collaborations and Mage Data’s revolutionary approach to test data management.
Welcome, Thumeera; it’s great to have you with us today!
Q1. A career spanning over two decades must be filled with several opportunities and difficulties. We are eager to know about the motivations that have kept you determined on your way.
Ans. Reflecting on my journey, I’ve encountered both triumphs and challenges that have profoundly shaped my career. Guided by a deep desire to solve problems and create a meaningful impact, I find the ever-evolving IT industry to be a thrilling landscape of innovation, learning, and adaptation. Overcoming challenges, tackling complex issues, streamlining processes, and implementing solutions that enhance efficiency and drive customer success fuel my motivation and provide a rewarding sense of excitement and accomplishment. Additionally, mentoring and empowering people have been significant personal drivers. Witnessing individuals and teams grow, achieve their goals, and unlock their potential is deeply fulfilling. Another essential aspect of my motivation is my belief in continuous learning. Regardless of how much experience one has, there is always room for growth. I have never hesitated to step out of my comfort zone, embrace new challenges, and take calculated risks. By consistently pushing myself forward, I believe that success naturally follows.
Q2. How does Mage Data, as the world’s first conversational test data management platform, revolutionize the way businesses handle their data management needs?
Ans. Mage Data is revolutionizing the landscape of test data management, offering businesses a transformative solution to longstanding challenges. Traditionally, organizations grappled with manual processes, compliance risks, and inefficiencies that hindered growth and innovation. Mage Data, with its innovative approach, dismantles these barriers, ushering in an era of intuitive, secure, and efficient data management.
Here are the key breakthroughs Mage Data brings to the table:
- Conversational Interface: With its AI-powered conversational UI, users can manage data seamlessly, simplifying intricate processes and making data management feel natural and accessible.
- AI-Driven Automation: Tasks like data discovery, classification, and masking are fully automated, bolstering security and ensuring compliance with minimal effort.
- Advanced Test Data Pipeline: Employing over 80 anonymization techniques, Mage Data empowers businesses to test applications securely, safeguarding sensitive information throughout.
- Comprehensive Data Catalog: The built-in catalog delivers unparalleled visibility into data assets, enabling teams to manage and govern their test data with confidence and precision.
- Cloud-Agnostic and Scalable: Designed to thrive in modern enterprise environments, Mage Data is as effective in the cloud as it is on-premises, adapting to the needs of any organization.
By integrating these cutting-edge features, Mage Data isn’t just a tool—it’s a transformative partner for businesses, helping them reduce operational expenses, fortify security, and achieve regulatory compliance effortlessly. It reimagines how organizations approach data, making the process not just efficient but inspiring. Mage Data is more than a platform; it’s a catalyst for change, empowering businesses to turn their data challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Q3. Data is an asset for commercial growth, but securing it is crucial. Can you elaborate on the importance of data privacy in today’s tech-enabled business sector?
Ans. In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, data is the lifeblood of every organization. Yet, if not effectively managed and safeguarded, it can swiftly shift from being a strategic asset to a significant liability. Data privacy transcends the boundaries of regulatory compliance—it is about fostering trust, safeguarding security, and underpinning sustainable business growth.
Here’s why prioritizing data privacy is no longer optional:
- Regulatory Compliance: Legislation such as GDPR, CCPA, and other regional data laws impose stringent standards on data management practices. Failure to comply can lead to staggering financial penalties and irreparable reputational damage.
- Customer Trust: In an era of heightened awareness, consumers are acutely attuned to privacy concerns. A single data breach can dissolve years of loyalty, making trust an invaluable currency in today’s market.
- Rising Cybersecurity Threats: As cyberattacks grow increasingly sophisticated, organizations must be proactive in securing sensitive information to mitigate breaches and avoid substantial financial losses.
- Competitive Differentiation: Companies that champion data privacy and uphold ethical data practices gain a strategic advantage, earning the trust of both customers and partners while standing out in a crowded marketplace.
At Mage Data, we stand as steadfast advocates of data privacy, embedding it into the core of our operations. With features like robust encryption, secure data masking, and seamless compliance with global regulations, we enable businesses to make data security effortless. This allows them to focus on what matters most— fostering innovation and driving growth—while knowing their data is shielded. Data privacy isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a powerful catalyst for trust, resilience, and long-term success. Mage Data ensures businesses not only meet the challenge but thrive in the data-driven world.
Q4. What strategies do you adopt to initiate instrumental collaborations and complete client satisfaction?
Ans. Effective collaboration and client satisfaction thrive on the pillars of trust, transparency, and the ability to consistently create value. My philosophy is straightforward yet transformative:
- Understanding the Client’s Vision: It all begins with listening. By diving deep into the client’s challenges, aspirations, and goals, I ensure that our solutions are perfectly aligned to drive meaningful impact.
- Fostering Strong Relationships: Successful partnerships transcend transactions. My focus lies in building enduring relationships that prioritize long-term collaboration over short-term gains.
- Exceeding Expectations: Going above and beyond is my hallmark. Whether it’s proactive problem-solving, delivering insights, or offering steadfast support, I believe in making clients feel genuinely valued.
- Data-Driven Insights: By leveraging real-time analytics, customer health dashboards, and feedback loops, I keep a pulse on emerging trends, anticipate challenges, and continuously refine strategies to secure lasting success.
- Promoting Open Communication: Transparent communication builds trust. Regular updates, active listening, and involving clients in the decision making process create a collaborative and transparent working environment.
By weaving together a relentless focus on innovation, client-centricity, and excellence, I ensure that collaborations not only flourish but also leave a lasting, positive impact. Strong relationships aren’t just built—they’re nurtured and celebrated every step of the way.
Q5. Mage Data offers a plethora of facilities, including data privacy, cross-border data sharing, database security, test data management, data discovery, and data masking. How do you ensure seamless delivery of each product?
Ans. Ensuring seamless product delivery is not just a responsibility—it’s a commitment we uphold with precision, passion, and purpose at Mage Data. The backbone of our success lies in a carefully designed, technology-driven, and customer-first approach that enables us to consistently deliver groundbreaking solutions.
Here’s how we make this happen, built on six essential pillars:
- Integrated Framework: Every facet of our operations is interwoven into a cohesive framework. From data privacy to test data management, we offer a unified solution where each module seamlessly integrates, ensuring security, compliance, and efficiency without compromise.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Innovation fuels us. By embedding AI-driven automation, machine learning, and real-time monitoring, we don’t just deliver efficient solutions—we deliver predictive systems that pre-emptively address potential challenges.
- Scalability & Flexibility: In a world of hybrid operations, we thrive. Whether businesses are on-premises, cloud-based, or leveraging multi-cloud strategies, our solutions adapt effortlessly, maintaining top-tier performance and robust security at every scale.
- Uncompromising Security: Safeguarding sensitive data is non-negotiable. We implement cutting-edge encryption, advanced anonymization, and compliance frameworks to protect information at rest, in transit, and during use.
- Intuitive User Experience: We believe in simplicity without sacrificing power. Our intuitive, conversational interfaces eliminate the complexity of enterprise software, streamlining workflows and maximizing productivity from day one.
- Customer-Centric Excellence: Listening is our superpower. By actively engaging with client feedback, analyzing industry trends, and continually evolving our solutions, we deliver not just a product but an ever-evolving experience tailored to meet unique needs.
What truly sets Mage Data apart is our dedication to going beyond the technical. Behind every innovation is a human story. For instance:
At Mage Data, employee empowerment is a core value. With a workforce that reflects a 50% gender balance and ensures equal pay across the board, we’re shaping an inclusive, dynamic environment. Nearly 60% of our leadership team comprises talented women—highlighting our unwavering belief in building partnerships that transcend boundaries of gender, religion, race, or ethnicity. This ethos fosters deeper connections not just within the organization but with every client we serve.
By combining excellence in technology with a steadfast commitment to empowerment and transparency, Mage Data consistently delivers results that set new industry standards, while also creating meaningful, lasting impact.
We believe in empowering individuals by creating an inclusive, flexible, and opportunity-rich environment where everyone can thrive. Our hybrid working models, flexible schedules, and remote work options allow our team members to unlock their full potential in ways that suit their unique needs. We proudly welcome those returning from career breaks, focusing on their talent and promise rather than just formal qualifications. By valuing potential over paperwork, we ensure diversity and maintain a healthy gender balance. We also reach beyond elite institutions, recruiting talent from smaller colleges, proving that brilliance can come from any corner.
One of our greatest strengths lies in our commitment to continuous learning. We invest in tailored training programs, equipping our resources to meet and exceed industry standards. By understanding each individual’s unique strengths, we align roles to talents, ensuring a win-win outcome for both our team members and the organization. At Mage Data, we foster independence and decision-making, supporting our people through challenges and growth without micromanagement. With a focus on collaboration, learning, and empowerment, we are proud to create an environment where innovation thrives and careers flourish.
Q6. What are your hobbies and passions? If you had a chance, what career option would you choose instead of becoming the Head of Operations & Security at Mage Data?
Ans. While my passion for technology, security, and operational efficiency drives much of my professional life, I’ve always felt a deep connection to teaching and mentoring. There’s a unique, indescribable satisfaction that comes from sharing knowledge, inspiring others, and guiding them in their career journeys.
If I weren’t immersed in the world of IT, I’d likely have embraced a path in education or research—perhaps as a professor, mentor, or coach. Shaping young minds, offering direction, and contributing to professional growth align seamlessly with my core values. I believe knowledge should never remain siloed; it is most powerful when shared, expanded upon, and used to uplift others.
This ethos is the foundation of my active engagement in mentoring, training, and thought leadership within the IT industry. It allows me to merge my love for learning with my pursuit of professional excellence—creating a ripple effect of empowerment and growth for those I collaborate with. Teaching, after all, is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring transformation.
Q7. Since you have spent a significant time in industry, can you discuss the prevalent myths that have been misleading the masses throughout the years?
Ans. The world of IT, while brimming with opportunities, is often clouded by myths that discourage individuals—especially women—from pursuing leadership roles in this dynamic industry. This question specifically allows me to focus on the unique strengths women bring to the table, such as their ability to keep calm under pressure, multitask effectively, and maintain clarity of thought. Coupled with qualities like empathy, resilience, creativity, and strategic thinking, these strengths are not only invaluable but also crucial in shaping successful leaders in today’s fast paced IT environment.
Let’s debunk some common misconceptions and illuminate the real possibilities:
- “IT is just about coding.” Women bring creativity, problem-solving abilities, and strategic thinking that extend far beyond coding. IT is a vast ecosystem encompassing domains like cybersecurity, operations, compliance, project management, business strategy, cloud computing, and AI. These areas demand innovation, collaboration, and clarity, where women’s ability to stay composed under pressure and think critically shines.
- “Women need to prove themselves more than men in IT leadership.” While societal expectations may pose challenges, women excel by leveraging empathy, adaptability, and resilience. These traits are key to navigating complex challenges, fostering collaboration, and leading diverse teams. Women leaders are reshaping organizations with their fresh perspectives and impactful contributions, demonstrating the power of breaking biases and barriers.
- “Work-life balance is impossible in IT.” Women are exceptional multitaskers, a strength that enables them to effectively manage professional and personal responsibilities. Many IT organizations now support work-life balance through flexible work arrangements, remote opportunities, and wellness initiatives, allowing women to excel in their careers without compromising personal well-being.
- “Leadership requires a technical degree or certifications.” While formal education and certifications validate knowledge, they are no substitute for visionary leadership, emotional intelligence, problem-solving creativity, and clarity of thought—qualities that women demonstrate with excellence. Many successful women leaders have risen to prominence by harnessing these strengths, proving that determination and ingenuity drive meaningful success in IT leadership.
Disproving these myths is not just necessary—it’s empowering. Women in IT are breaking barriers, reshaping narratives, and proving that this field isn’t just about technology but about innovation, resilience, and inclusivity. By embracing their potential and leveraging their unique strengths, women can thrive in IT while inspiring future leaders to dream big and achieve even bigger.
Q8. Would you share a challenging situation that you have encountered and overcome to embrace success in your career?
Ans. One of the most demanding challenges I encountered was managing a high pressure system outage during peak business hours—a mission-critical issue that impacted multiple clients and posed significant risks in terms of financial losses and reputational damage. Every second of downtime was costly, making swift resolution imperative.
Here’s how we successfully navigated the crisis:
- Maintained Composure: Staying calm was essential to ensuring clarity and focus. Avoiding panic allowed the team to remain solution-driven and avoid getting caught up in the chaos.
- Activated a Crisis Response Team: I immediately assembled key stakeholders from engineering, operations, and support, fostering collaboration and prioritizing tasks effectively to optimize efforts.
- Proactive Communication: Transparency was critical. We provided clients with real-time updates, keeping them informed and managing expectations with honesty—building trust amidst the chaos.
- Rapid Root Cause Analysis and Resolution: The outage stemmed from a critical software bug in the application’s core module. Our team conducted a swift, in-depth analysis, pinpointed the faulty code, and implemented a hotfix. Rigorous testing ensured stability before deployment, successfully restoring services with minimal disruption.
- Post-Mortem and Preventive Measures: After stabilizing the system, we carried out a comprehensive root cause analysis to prevent recurrence. This led to enhanced testing protocols covering edge-case scenarios, refined incident response workflows, and the deployment of automated monitoring tools for early anomaly detection. Additionally, we strengthened failover strategies to ensure seamless recovery for future contingencies.
This experience underscored the value of preparation, teamwork, and structured problem-solving under pressure. The ultimate takeaway – Challenges are inevitable—but success is defined by how effectively we confront and resolve them. It’s about turning adversity into an opportunity for growth, improvement, and resilience.
Q9. Congratulations on taking up this new role in Mage Data as the Head of Operations & Security. What is your approach to fulfilling your responsibilities and delivering the best to meet the organizational goals?
Ans. Stepping into this role at Mage Data is both a thrilling opportunity and a profound responsibility. My strategy revolves around fostering clarity, driving efficiency, ensuring security, and championing continuous improvement. Here’s how I approach this challenge with purpose and vision:
- Understanding the Landscape: The first step is to gain a holistic understanding of the organization. By evaluating our operations, security framework, and current challenges, I can pinpoint areas for improvement and set priorities effectively.
- Setting Clear Objectives: Success hinges on measurable goals and well defined KPIs. Whether enhancing security, streamlining workflows, or boosting efficiency, a structured roadmap ensures every initiative aligns with Mage Data’s broader mission.
- Building Strong Teams: People are the heartbeat of any organization. I focus on empowering teams with the right training, tools, and autonomy, fostering an environment where collaboration and high performance thrive.
- Leveraging Technology & Innovation: To remain ahead, Mage Data must harness cutting-edge advancements like AI-driven security, automation, and optimized processes. These technologies not only elevate operations but also mitigate risks proactively.
- Fostering a Security-First Culture: Security is more than a departmental duty—it’s a mindset. By promoting awareness, reinforcing policies, and implementing proactive risk management, I aim to build resilience and ensure seamless compliance across the board.
- Driving Operational Efficiency: Simplifying processes, eliminating bottlenecks, and introducing workflow automation are key to streamlining operations. Efficiency lays the groundwork for scalability and long-term success.
- Embracing Continuous Improvement: No process is ever flawless. I advocate for iterative progress through feedback loops, regular reviews, and diagnostics, ensuring the organization stays adaptive, innovative, and ahead of challenges.
To me, leading operations and security is about more than just management; it’s about creating a resilient, future-ready organization where people, processes, and technology harmonize to drive excellence and innovation. With this vision, Mage Data is well-equipped to thrive in a dynamic, ever-evolving industry.
Q10. According to you, how important is it to stay positive in the competitive professional sector where each individual is thriving to stay ahead of the other?
Ans. Positivity is indeed a superpower—a driving force that fuels resilience, sparks motivation, and unlocks creativity. In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of IT, where challenges are abundant and innovation is paramount, a positive mindset is often the key to thriving amidst adversity.
Here’s why embracing positivity is essential:
- Resilience: Positivity empowers you to bounce back from setbacks with strength and purpose. Challenges are inevitable, but those who approach them with optimism uncover solutions faster and adapt more effectively to change.
- Stronger Relationships: Collaboration is the heartbeat of success in IT. A positive outlook fosters trust, encourages cooperation, and creates stronger bonds with colleagues and clients, turning teamwork into a transformative experience.
- Enhanced Productivity: When positivity drives your mindset, focus and creativity naturally flourish. It boosts job satisfaction and inspires motivated teams to consistently deliver exceptional results.
- Attracting Opportunities: Optimistic, solution-oriented professionals have a magnetic quality. Positivity builds a strong personal and professional brand, attracting new career opportunities and strengthening networks.
The secret lies in adaptability and turning challenges into stepping stones for growth. By embracing a positive, growth-oriented mindset, you not only overcome obstacles but also build a foundation for enduring success. Positivity isn’t just a mindset—it’s a transformative force that paves the way for innovation and excellence.
Q11. What is the one goal or achievement you have always wished to accomplish in your professional journey, and why is it crucial for you?
Ans. If I had to pinpoint the vision that resonates most deeply with me, it would be the creation of a knowledge-driven, self-sustaining organization—a hub where innovation flourishes effortlessly.
Throughout my career, I’ve been guided by a steadfast belief in mentorship, knowledge sharing, and empowering individuals to take ownership of their work. I see an organization not merely as a place of efficiency but as an ever-evolving ecosystem that adapts, grows, and nurtures creativity.
The true measure of success lies in fostering an environment that prioritizes learning, collaboration, and ingenuity. An organization that inspires its people to thrive—not just professionally but personally—creates a lasting legacy. This is the impact I aspire to leave behind: a company where growth, meaningful contributions, and innovation are embedded in its DNA, driving progress that transcends the ordinary.
Q12. If you could go back in time, what advice or suggestions would you give to your 15-year-old self to help embrace new opportunities at that age?
Ans. Stay curious, keep questioning, and never let the spark of learning fade—knowledge is your most powerful tool.
Embrace failure as a stepping stone: Each setback is simply a lesson in disguise. The faster you embrace failure, the quicker you’ll grow. Let every challenge become an opportunity to push beyond your limits, discovering new possibilities in the process.
Seek mentors and inspiration: Learn from those who have walked the path before you, and carry their insights into your own journey. Surrounding yourself with role models fuels growth and offers invaluable guidance.
Believe in your potential: Self-doubt may come and go, but perseverance and hard work will always prevail. Trust yourself, embrace your efforts, and keep striving—you are capable of achieving greatness.
At 15, my insatiable curiosity opened the doors to countless opportunities and fuelled my career. I encourage my younger self—and everyone else—to never stop exploring, learning, and daring to challenge the status quo.
Ultimately, success isn’t just about reaching milestones; it’s about the impact you create along the way. Every challenge holds a lesson, and every moment is a chance to grow. Stay resilient, stay inspired, and let your passion guide you to extraordinary heights.
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