SCIM visit to BNY Mellon's security setup at Embassy TechZone, Chennai

On 23rd December 2025, SCIM students, along with faculty member Mr. Sharuhasan, AP, visited  BNY Mellon's security setup at Embassy TechZone, Chennai. Instead of a conventional lecture, the session evolved into an engaging and thought-provoking interaction with the speaker, Mr. Velayutham, Director of Global Corporate Security, who shared firsthand experiences of managing large-scale crises during the COVID-19 pandemic. He explained the operational challenges faced and the strategic responses adopted, particularly during the second phase when multiple BNY Mellon entities operated in an integrated manner at the Embassy IT Park in Pallavaram. A strong emphasis was placed on proactive planning as the foundation for resilience, continuity, and operational efficiency.

The session emphasised that effective security in the banking and corporate environment must adopt a business-first approach, aligning protection strategies with core operations to safeguard continuity, trust, and data integrity. Regulatory compliance and governance frameworks were highlighted as critical enablers of consistent and lawful security practices. The importance of integrating cyber and physical security systems was discussed as a means to improve threat detection and response efficiency. A hybrid staffing model, supported by clear role clarity and oversight, was presented as an effective method for maintaining 24/7 operations. The speaker emphasized that while technology plays a vital role, human judgment, discipline, and alertness remain essential to achieving successful security outcomes. Collaboration with internal departments and external agencies was identified as essential for effective crisis management. Managing people movement, ensuring system reliability, and adopting a predictive, data-driven approach to security were highlighted as best practices. Ultimately, the session emphasized the importance of cultivating an adaptive security culture to remain resilient in the face of evolving risks and regulatory requirements.

The interaction provided valuable real-world insights into how strategic planning, human judgment, and integrated systems together build resilient security operations. The session reinforced that effective security is not just about controls and technology, but about culture, collaboration, and foresight.