The latest addition to the Best Advice Q&A series is Kumar Sokka, group chief executive officer of Acre Security. He shares the best advice he’s ever gotten, how he helps young security industry professionals thrive and whose words have helped motivate him most.
Security Sales & Integration: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Kumar Sokka: “Focus on building people, not just products.” Early in my career, I was told that if you invest in great teams—help them grow, challenge them and trust them—the technology and the results will follow. That mindset has shaped how I lead and how I evaluate success: it’s not just about what we deliver but who we become along the way.
SSI: What advice would you give to those looking to achieve success in the security industry?
Sokka: The security industry is evolving quickly but the fundamentals remain: earn trust first, then innovate boldly. Learn the technology, yes—but also learn the customer’s world. Understand the problems and what safety and identity really mean to the people you protect. Be willing to challenge old assumptions, embrace cloud and open platforms and never lose sight of why this work matters: protecting people, places and possibilities.
SSI: If you could point to one person in the security industry and tell up-and-comers, “Make sure to listen to what they have to say,” whom would you pick and why?
Sokka: I’d point to Joe Grillo. His career reflects both vision and resilience. He’s navigated multiple industry shifts with a steady focus on leadership, partnerships and technology that actually makes an impact. Listening to leaders like Joe reminds you that success isn’t about chasing every trend; it’s about anticipating what’s next while staying grounded in what customers truly need.
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