Niru Verma is the Chief Operations Officer and Principal Security Consultant at Mercury, a role that crowns over 17 years of expertise in national security, cybersecurity, and governance. Known for her strategic mindset and leadership capabilities, Niru has built a career advising senior decision-makers on issues where technology, security, and policy converge. Her background spans high-level roles in both the public and private sectors, making her a versatile and sought-after leader in the cybersecurity and risk management space.
Before joining Mercury, Niru developed a strong foundation in the Australian Public Service, where she held advisory roles in several high-stakes government departments. Her career has included key positions within the Department of Defence, Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Department of Home Affairs, and the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. In these roles, she provided expert guidance on complex operational and legislative matters, working directly with senior executives in politically sensitive and dynamic environments. This exposure to diverse, high-impact scenarios has refined Niru’s ability to navigate intricate challenges, particularly those involving security and governance.
Niru’s educational achievements further complement her professional experience. She holds a Master’s degree in National Security Policy from the Australian National University, which has deepened her insight into the broader strategic implications of security and risk. Her undergraduate degree in Information and Communication Technology from the University of Wollongong provided a solid technical foundation, equipping her with the knowledge needed to manage and understand the technical nuances of cybersecurity projects. Additionally, Niru is a certified PRINCE2 Project Manager and is skilled in Agile project methodologies, making her a highly capable leader in project-driven environments.
Since stepping into her role as COO at Mercury, Niru has continued to champion security governance, helping clients strengthen their operations through a strategic, risk-informed approach. Her role involves both operational oversight and hands-on involvement in consulting projects, where she provides Mercury’s clients with pragmatic, strategic solutions tailored to their specific security needs. Niru’s leadership style is grounded in fostering collaboration and empowering her teams, and she is known for her ability to inspire and motivate those around her.
Niru’s dedication, breadth of experience, and commitment to excellence position her as a driving force in Mercury’s mission to deliver robust security and governance solutions. Her unique blend of technical expertise, strategic insight, and operational acumen make her an invaluable asset in the ever-evolving fields of cybersecurity, governance, and risk management.
