Mental health strategies in cybersecurity: insights with Sarb Sehmbi

Discover how the CTO at Virtually Informed, has shaped his career with a focus on “doing the right thing”, leading key mental health strategies and initiatives in cybersecurity.

With a strong background in economics and politics, Sehmbi’s career trajectory took an unexpected turn into technology, where he now focuses on improving mental health within the cybersecurity field. In this exclusive Leaders Profile interview, discover how Sehmbi’s principle-driven approach has contributed to both technology and mental health advocacy.

Talking mental health with Sarb Sehmbi:

• From politics to punch cards
• Step one—do the right thing
• A focus on mental health strategies
• Balancing work and wellbeing
• The power of shared experiences

From politics to punch cards

Sarb Sehmbi’s entry into the world of technology was not straightforward. In his teenage years he was fascinated by computers and decided to study computer science. However, his early experiences with the field—particularly the frustration of working with punch cards—led him to abandon this path. 

“I just thought to myself, I cannot be involved in making typing mistakes for the rest of my life.” Instead, he pursued a degree in economics and politics, which initially led him to a career in the public sector.

But technology had a way of finding its way back into Sehmbi’s life. As personal computers began to emerge in the workplace, Sehmbi quickly became the resident expert. This unexpected return to technology reignited his passion, and he made the decision to retrain in the field. “It was purely chance, it was just me moving as I thought times were moving,” Sehmbi reflects. His adaptability and willingness to evolve with the times have been key to his success as a technology leader.

Step one—do the right thing

Sehmbi’s career path is one marked by a consistent commitment to doing the right thing. 

As the CTO at Virtually Informed, Sehmbi has built his professional life on a foundation of integrity, a value that has guided his decisions from the very start. When asked to distil his philosophy into a few words, Sehmbi “cheats” by offering three: “do the right thing.” This simple mantra has been the cornerstone of his success, leading him to make choices that prioritise ethical considerations over personal gain.

For Sehmbi, doing the right thing is not just a professional guideline; it is a principle that has shaped every aspect of his career. From selecting job opportunities to leading industry initiatives, Sehmbi’s decision-making process has always been anchored in what he believes is right for the industry, his colleagues and himself. This approach has not only earned him recognition in the technology world but has also allowed him to contribute meaningfully to numerous projects and organisations.

A focus on mental health strategies

One of Sehmbi’s most impactful contributions to the tech industry has been his work on mental health awareness, particularly within the cybersecurity sector. In October 2022, while chairing a two-day event for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), Sehmbi noticed a deep sense of emotion during a discussion on stress, burnout and mental health. Recognising the importance of the issue, he invited volunteers to help him write a report, which was later released during Mental Health Awareness Week in May 2023.

The report sparked significant interest, leading to the establishment of the Mental Health in Cybersecurity Foundation. This initiative aims to address the mental health challenges faced by professionals in the cybersecurity industry, framing these issues as critical to organisational cyber resilience. “If the organisation wants to be cyber-resilient, it needs to look after its cyber teams,” Sehmbi asserts. His leadership in this area has highlighted the often-overlooked connection between mental health and cybersecurity, pushing for greater transparency and support within the industry.

Balancing work and wellbeing

Sehmbi’s dedication to doing the right thing extends beyond his professional achievements; it also informs how he manages his own well-being. In reflecting on his career, Sehmbi shares a pivotal moment when he and his colleagues decided to close their consultancy. The long hours and relentless pressures had taken a toll, leading them to prioritise their health and well-being over continuing the business. “It was coming to a point where we were just working long hours just to keep up with things and nothing more than that,” Sehmbi explains.

This experience reinforced Sehmbi’s belief in the importance of balance and self-care. He has made a conscious effort to dedicate a significant portion of his time to unpaid work in the industry, including writing guidance documents, speaking at events and participating in industry initiatives. “I try to do what I think is the right thing,” he says. For Sehmbi, this unpaid work is not only a way to give back to the industry but also a source of personal satisfaction and sanity.

The power of shared experiences

Sehmbi is a firm believer in the value of networking and sharing experiences. He regularly attends industry events, not just to share his own insights but to learn from others as well. These gatherings provide a rare opportunity for cybersecurity professionals to relax, connect and exchange ideas outside the high-pressure environment of their organisations. 

“While we're within our own organisations, we are carrying the pressures of that organisation, and when we come out, that's when we can actually relax a bit, forget what's going on to an extent and actually share,” Sehmbi notes.These interactions are crucial, not just for professional development but for the well-being of those in the industry. Sehmbi’s active participation in these events underscores his commitment to the cybersecurity community and his belief in the importance of mutual support and learning.

Leaders Profile: check out our line-up of HotTopics Leader's Corner interviews.

HotTopics produces interviews with a diverse array of leaders, C-suite marketing and technology leaders. These take place in-person during our much-anticipated flagship event, The Studio, and virtually with leaders based all over the world. Learn more about what makes these leaders tick, and their experiences and expertise that have supported them in their careers so far.