Editor’s note: ISACA’s Career Catalyst Stories showcase how members have been supported by ISACA throughout all stages of their careers. Today, we profile Jay Hira, Director, Cyber Security – Financial Services, KPMG Australia. Find out more about ISACA membership here.
Jay Hira’s first attempt at passing the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam did not unfold the way he envisioned.
In fact, it was an unexpected debacle.
“I was working full-time, burning the midnight oil to study, and juggling a million other things. On the day of the exam, I walked in feeling confident, but as soon as I saw the first question, my mind went blank. It was like a scene from a Bollywood movie – dramatic music, swirling camera, and I was frozen in panic,” Hira recalled. “I somehow muddled through the exam, but the results weren't pretty. I failed, and it stung.”
Instead of wallowing in self-pity, Hira found motivation in the setback. Continuing the cinematic theme, Hira said, “I channeled my inner Rocky Balboa and decided to come back stronger.” He studied more intensely, sought advice from CISA-holders and joined a study group.
His next exam was a very different story – and a much happier one.
“On my second attempt, I was like a well-oiled machine, confidently navigating through the questions and emerging victorious,” Hira said. “It was a true testament to the power of perseverance and the support of the ISACA community.”
Hira’s failed exam and subsequent triumph turned out to be just the beginning of a fruitful journey with ISACA.
Jay and ISACA: early career
Hira’s professional career has taken him from hands-on technical and security operations work to governance and strategy, and spanned several geographies, too. He’s worked in India, Bahrain, Mauritius, the Netherlands and, now, Australia.
As he made his way around the world, ISACA – and its vast network of local chapters – quickly emerged as a steady source of support.
“Early in my career, I felt a bit like a security nomad, zigzagging across cities, countries and continents for various professional services roles,” Hira said. “While each move was an exciting adventure, it also meant leaving behind familiar faces and networks. That's where ISACA stepped in and became my anchor.
“I discovered that no matter where my work took me, there was always an ISACA chapter nearby, brimming with passionate, like-minded cyber practitioners. It was like finding my tribe, a place where I could connect, learn and grow alongside fellow enthusiasts.”
What’s happening now?
Since becoming an ISACA member in 2011, Hira has immersed himself not only in ISACA credentials – he has attained the CISA, CISM and CDPSE – but also in chapter leadership opportunities and ISACA’s Mentorship Program. He called ISACA his “trusted guidebook” to take on the ever-moving target of sharpening cybersecurity and technology best practices.
“I jumped headfirst into the ISACA community, attending professional development events, sharing my knowledge by running certification trainings and eventually taking on the role of a board member for the ISACA Sydney Chapter,” Hira said. “I often fondly say that ISACA is my global passport to friendship and knowledge.”
His grandmother dispensed plenty of knowledge to him as well. One of her sayings that rings true to Hira is “If doors don't open for you, build the door and let others in behind you.” He said that call to action has stayed with him throughout his life, and he has found many ways to apply it through his ISACA membership.
“Inspired by the generosity of all my previous ISACA mentors and my grandmother's wisdom, I've made it my mission to build doors for others in ISACA and the global cyber community,” Hira said. “Whether mentoring newcomers, sharing the lessons I've learned from my personal failures, or simply offering a listening ear, I strive to create opportunities for others to learn, grow and thrive.
“This commitment to paying it forward has not only enriched my career but also deepened my connection to the ISACA community. It's a beautiful cycle of giving and receiving, where we all play a part in shaping the future of cybersecurity. I'm honored to be a part of it.”
What’s next for Jay?
Hira has come a long way since the disappointment of that first CISA exam. He said the experience reinforced that failure is often a steppingstone to success – an especially relevant lesson in a field as challenging as cybersecurity. He intends to keep that top of mind as his career progresses, including his plans to help make cybersecurity more accessible for all through a non-profit, MakeCyberSimple Inc., focusing on connecting students aspiring to work in the field with small to medium-sized businesses needing cyber expertise but unable to bear the cost.
“While I'm proud of the certifications I've earned, I’m equally proud of the setbacks I’ve overcome,” Hira said. “They've made me a stronger, more resilient and more empathetic professional. And isn't that what it's all about: learning, growing, living, giving, and constantly pushing ourselves out of our comfort zone to be better? With the support of the ISACA community, I’m confident that my journey of sharing, learning and growing will continue for years to come.”