TheCconnects: Can you tell our readers a little about your professional journey & how did you come to your current role/position?
Srikanth Parepally: I began my career in the IT profession in 1992 in India. My professional path included diverse roles, from working in the Indian public sector to transitioning into IT consulting in US. In  2004 I founded METMOX  in the US, starting with IT services. Over time, we expanded our offerings which includes product development and project outsourcing. In 2014, we strategically pivoted to providing Managed Security Services, focusing on assisting large enterprises in the US with a global presence. Our unique service model and exceptional delivery, backed by innovative methodologies, have driven significant business growth, bringing us to where we are today. In 2021 Achieve Partners announced the acquisition of METMOX. Later Achieve Partners acquired a few other leading security organizations and named as UltraViolet Cyber. I am the Co-Founder and President of UltraViolet Cyber.
TheCconnects: Who has influenced you the most in life and why?
Srikanth Parepally: I have always been captivated by changes in the broader world. My inspiration does not stem from a single person but rather from the ever-evolving environment around me. However, I am profoundly grateful to my family, especially my spouse, my closest friends, and some of my customers. Their unwavering confidence and support have been a constant source of energy and motivation, driving me to achieve my goals.
TheCconnects: What are the biggest challenges you have faced in your life & how did you overcome them?
Srikanth Parepally: Everyone encounters challenges in both life and career, and I am no exception. These experiences taught me that defining your core values and true north is crucial. This clarity enables you to navigate challenges effectively and find the right course of action to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. From my professional journey, I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the value of a strong team. These lessons have been instrumental in my success, and I hope they inspire others in their own careers.
TheCconnects: What lessons you have learned from your professional career?
Srikanth Parepally: To ensure the long-term success of both your enterprise and your professional career, it’s essential to cultivate persistence and set clear long-term goals. Flexibility and the ability to pivot are equally important, as they allow you to adapt to change in circumstances and seize new opportunities.
Moreover, continuous learning and an insatiable curiosity are vital. The market is constantly evolving and stay updated for lifelong learning and skill development. Embrace new technologies, seek out new knowledge, and invest in building your capabilities.
By staying persistent, setting clear goals, being adaptable, and continuously learning, you can navigate the challenges of the market and achieve lasting success.
TheCconnects: What do you see as the biggest challenge for brands in the digital space?
Srikanth Parepally:
- Customer Engagement
- Competition stemming from imitators
- Barriers to entry are low Cyber Risk
TheCconnects: How can your product/solution help to resolve the pain points of your customers?
Srikanth Parepally: Our cybersecurity solution addresses critical pain points by offering advanced threat detection and prevention capabilities, robust vulnerability management, and seamless compliance adherence. Through proactive monitoring and rapid incident response, we ensure timely mitigation of risks and swift recovery from security breaches.
Our user-centric approach includes comprehensive training to enhance awareness and reduce human errors. Scalability and integration with existing systems enable efficient management of cybersecurity needs as businesses grow. By leveraging threat intelligence and analytics, we provide actionable insights to stay ahead of emerging threats. This holistic approach not only protects organizations from financial and reputational damage but also optimizes cost-efficiency by minimizing the total cost of ownership associated with cybersecurity incidents.
TheCconnects: What do you do in your free time?
Srikanth Parepally: I prioritize by clearly defining goals for each area and use efficient time management techniques like scheduling dedicated family time and career development activities. When traveling, I stay connected with my family through regular communication and make the most of remote work capabilities. Continuous learning and skill development are integrated into my routine, leveraging online resources and networking opportunities.
TheCconnects: Do you have any advice for those who want to be an entrepreneur/C-suite executive?
Srikanth Parepally: Focus on cultivating a combination of strategic vision, resilience, and effective leadership skills. Continuously seek opportunities to innovate and adapt to market trends, while also fostering a strong team culture centered around clear communication and shared goals. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities, remain agile in decision-making, and prioritize ethical practices in all business endeavors. Finally, stay committed to personal growth and networking within your industry to build a robust professional reputation and broaden your perspectives.
You can connect with Srikanth Parepally on LinkedIn here
