From Singapore to Sekuro — how Shamane Tan is building global cybersecurity communities

In this series, we explore the experiences of Singaporean business leaders who have ventured abroad and the ways in which they have navigated cultural differences to achieve success.

We hear from prominent homegrown C-suite executives and entrepreneurs who have expanded their businesses across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Get insights on how they have adapted their leadership styles and business strategies to fit local cultural norms and how they have leveraged their Singaporean heritage to build relationships and foster trust with international partners.

When I started out, I never imagined I’d end up as the chief growth officer at Sekuro, a cybersecurity powerhouse expanding across multiple countries. My journey began in Singapore, where I worked in executive recruitment with banking giants like Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan. For me, it was more than just a job — it was a masterclass in leadership and human capital strategy.

I graduated with a computer engineering degree from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) 15 years ago. Back then, I was just a tech-curious kid without a clear career plan. Fast-forward to today, and I’m deep in cybersecurity — a field where my tech background and people skills converge perfectly.

The transition happened when a cybersecurity firm founder spotted my knack for business strategy and relationship-building and brought me on as an executive cyber advisor.

This blend of skills led me to my current role at Sekuro, where I oversee our expansion into Singapore, Australia, and now Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). I help executives and boards grasp cybersecurity concepts through relatable stories, not jargon.

Leaving Singapore for new challenges in Australia

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Let’s rewind a bit to my move to Australia. I was at the top of my game in Singapore — comfortable, close to family, and excelling at work. But visiting Sydney made me realise I was missing out on international experience. The decision to uproot wasn’t easy, especially for an introvert like me. I faced my share of rejections, but it only took one person willing to take a chance on me, and from there, my career in Australia took off.

Australia gave me a blank canvas I didn’t know I needed. I became known not just for my work but also for building communities within the cybersecurity sector. I founded the Cyber Risk Meetup and CxO Tribe, initiatives that now connect thousands of professionals across Australia, Singapore, and Japan.

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These networks were key to creating a space where cybersecurity professionals could exchange ideas and share knowledge. The sense of community we built allowed members to collaborate on the most pressing cyber challenges, gaining insights that foster both personal and professional growth.

Regular meetings, expert panels, and networking events became the backbone of these initiatives, creating meaningful engagement and positioning us at the forefront of the industry.

Stronger foundations through collaboration

This focus on community building wasn’t just for my development; it also became a strategic pillar for Sekuro. One of my proudest achievements is positioning Sekuro at the industry’s forefront through thought leadership and collaboration. I spearheaded the creation of our Executive Advisory Board, including different platforms where leaders come together to tackle the industry's most pressing issues, deepening my understanding of the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

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But my journey to becoming a cybersecurity advocate wasn’t a straight path. Was cybersecurity always my passion? Honestly, no. My tech journey started with a love for PC gaming. However, I remember feeling out of my depth among top scholars while pursuing my computer engineering degree. I even thought about quitting.

But I learned to focus on my growth, taking things step by step. That resilience became my secret weapon.

From childhood dreams to bestselling author

One of my life highlights has been becoming a published author, fulfilling a childhood dream. Over the years, after speaking to hundreds of global cybersecurity leaders, I knew it was time to write — for the industry.

That led to my books Cyber Risk Leaders, Cyber Mayday and the Day After, and Building a Cyber Resilient Business. When Forbes Australia listed the latter as one of the top books for CEOs, it felt like a validation of all the late nights and research I’d poured into understanding this field.

Today, success for me is about creating a lasting impact. I want to leave behind a cybersecurity landscape that's more resilient, inclusive, and innovative. It’s also about mentoring the next generation of leaders and fostering a culture where diverse voices are heard.

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My journey has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. I’ve battled imposter syndrome — I even gave a TEDx talk about it called “The Imposter Syndrome of the Tall Poppies” — but I’ve also learned to embrace my vulnerabilities and see them as strengths.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue shaping the cybersecurity industry through my work at Sekuro and building strong, supportive communities. If there’s one lesson I’d pass on, it’s this: Sometimes, the most significant opportunities come when you step out of your comfort zone and say yes to the unknown.