CyberWire Daily - Episode Summary

Title: Aviv Grafi: There needs to be fundamental changes in security. [CEO] [Career Notes]
Host/Author: N2K Networks
Release Date: December 8, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of CyberWire Daily, host N2K Networks engages in a profound discussion with Aviv Grafi, the CEO and founder of Votero. Grafi shares his extensive experience in cybersecurity, his entrepreneurial journey, and his visionary thoughts on the future of security. This conversation offers valuable insights for cybersecurity professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of digital security.

Aviv Grafi’s Background and Early Career

Aviv Grafi begins by outlining his foundational years in cybersecurity. Based in Tel Aviv, Israel, Grafi was recruited into the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) right after high school, where he dedicated nearly five years to intelligence operations.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... I was working on security for almost five years. I learned a lot about security, defense and offense. So that was really great experience and a lot of learning, learning that almost everything is possible and I think that's actually shaped a lot of my thinking and problem solving."

Grafi emphasizes how his time in the IDF instilled a deep understanding of both defensive and offensive security measures, shaping his approach to problem-solving and strategic thinking in the cybersecurity realm.

Transition to the Private Sector and Entrepreneurship

After his military service, Grafi transitioned to the private sector, joining a startup focused on security development. Over two years, he honed his skills as a core team developer before venturing out to establish his own company.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... after two years of having some more business and real world experience, I actually started my own business. I was doing pen testing, penetration testing. So I was traveling around the world doing audits for companies for IT IT security staff and that was one of the first experiences I had with understanding there are problems that need to be solved."

Grafi’s initial foray into penetration testing exposed him to the widespread security challenges businesses face, planting the seed for what would eventually become Votero. His hands-on experience conducting security audits globally provided him with firsthand insights into the vulnerabilities and needs of various organizations.

Founding Votero and Evolution of the Business

Votero, under Grafi’s leadership, evolved from its early days of penetration testing to a company focused on innovative security solutions. Grafi attributes the company’s current direction to the foundational experiences and challenges he encountered during his initial years.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... that two years afterwards became what is now Votero with slightly different idea and approach. But that was the root or the seed for what today I have in the company that I'm heading."

This evolution reflects Grafi’s commitment to addressing complex security issues with fresh perspectives and advanced technologies, positioning Votero as a forward-thinking player in the cybersecurity industry.

Management Philosophy and Team Dynamics

Grafi discusses his management style, highlighting the importance of treating his management team as peers and fostering a culture of ownership and accountability.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: I accommodate. I treat my management team as my peers. As a team, usually I'm expecting them to own and to be responsible for their area. I expect them to improve."

He underscores the value of transparency and responsibility within the team, encouraging members to acknowledge mistakes and proactively present solutions.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... if someone stepped into my office, said look Aviv, I'm sorry, I've done a mistake on this path and that's completely fine. And I appreciate that, admitting in mistakes and weaknesses."

This approach not only fosters a supportive work environment but also drives continuous improvement and innovation within the company.

Advocating for Fundamental Changes in Security

A central theme of the conversation is Grafi’s belief that the cybersecurity landscape requires fundamental changes. He advocates for reimagining traditional security paradigms to effectively tackle emerging threats.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... that there need to be fundamental changes in security. And the way that I'm seeing what I'm building and what I believe in is that you need to turn the problem on its head."

Grafi’s vision involves challenging conventional methods and developing unconventional solutions to address the evolving nature of cyber threats.

Future Vision and Long-Term Impact

Looking ahead, Grafi shares his aspiration for Votero’s lasting impact on the cybersecurity industry.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... I want, for example, in 10 years from now that people will say, yeah, Votero, Aviv Grafi. Yeah, he was the mind that thought how we really solved that problem. And it was really crazy. But we see now that it's really working."

This long-term perspective emphasizes Grafi’s commitment to innovation and his confidence in the effectiveness of his strategies and solutions.

Navigating the Entrepreneurial Roller Coaster

Grafi reflects on the emotional challenges of running a startup, describing the experience as a roller coaster with highs and lows.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... the roller coaster of running a venture, in my case, the roller coaster. This is something that you need to understand that the highs are not that high and the lows are not that lows."

He shares personal growth insights, highlighting the importance of maintaining perspective and emotional resilience in the face of entrepreneurial ups and downs.

"[00:59] Aviv Grafi: ... a few years now I understand that you need to take that in proportion."

Grafi’s candid discussion provides valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs on managing the psychological aspects of building and leading a company.

Conclusion

In this episode, Aviv Grafi offers a compelling narrative of his journey from military intelligence to leading a pioneering cybersecurity firm. His emphasis on fundamental changes in security, coupled with a robust management philosophy, underscores his commitment to driving meaningful innovation in the industry. Grafi’s insights serve as an inspiration for cybersecurity professionals and entrepreneurs aiming to make a significant impact in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Aviv Grafi [00:59]: "I learned a lot about security, defense and offense. So that was really great experience and a lot of learning, learning that almost everything is possible and I think that's actually shaped a lot of my thinking and problem solving."

• Aviv Grafi [00:59]: "I treat my management team as my peers... I expect them to improve."

• Aviv Grafi [00:59]: "There need to be fundamental changes in security. ... you need to turn the problem on its head."

• Aviv Grafi [00:59]: "I want, for example, in 10 years from now that people will say, yeah, Votiro Aviv Grafi. Yeah, he was the mind that thought how we really solved that problem."

• Aviv Grafi [00:59]: "The highs are not that high and the lows are not that lows. ... you need to take that in proportion."