13 - Guarding the Vault: Cybersecurity Strategies for Finance with Chithra Rajagopalan

Is your finance department your company’s biggest security risk? Join Jeff Rudner on this episode of 5 to 50: Financial Strategies for Growing Companies as he welcomes Chithra Rajagopalan, Head of Finance at Obsidian Security, to discuss how the convergence of finance and cybersecurity can either expose companies to billion-dollar breaches or unlock strategic resilience. From managing phishing threats to balancing AI innovation with secure financial practices, Chithra shares practical, cost-effective tactics for protecting sensitive data and strengthening internal operations. Whether you're a founder, CFO, or finance leader, this episode is packed with insights to help you scale securely in today’s digital-first world.

Is your finance department your company’s biggest security risk?

Join Jeff Rudner on this episode of 5 to 50: Financial Strategies for Growing Companies as he welcomes Chithra Rajagopalan, Head of Finance at Obsidian Security, to discuss how the convergence of finance and cybersecurity can either expose companies to billion-dollar breaches or unlock strategic resilience. From managing phishing threats to balancing AI innovation with secure financial practices, Chithra shares practical, cost-effective tactics for protecting sensitive data and strengthening internal operations. Whether you're a founder, CFO, or finance leader, this episode is packed with insights to help you scale securely in today’s digital-first world.

What you will learn:

How to quantify cybersecurity risks and their potential financial impact
Why separating finance and security departments is crucial for maintaining expertise
The critical importance of proper user access management
How to implement cost-effective security measures for early-stage companies
Why multi-factor authentication and proper data hygiene are non-negotiable
How to balance AI adoption in finance while maintaining security and data protection
The framework for creating effective partnerships between CFOs and CISOs
Why centralized data management must be balanced against security considerations
How to protect against increasingly sophisticated phishing attacks
The essential security protocols every finance department should implement

Chithra Rajagopalan is a seasoned finance leader with deep experience in high-growth SaaS companies. Currently Head of Finance at Obsidian Security, she has successfully led organizations through fundraises, acquisitions, international expansion, and IPO readiness. With prior roles at Deloitte and fast-paced startups, she’s known for her strategic insight, operational rigor, and strong executive partnership. Chithra also serves on the boards of two non-profits focused on nurse retention and social equity for underprivileged children, reflecting her commitment to impact beyond business.

Chithra Rajagopalan on LinkedIn
Obsidian Security Website
Jeff Rudner on LinkedIn
Proseer Website
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