Scaling GRC Engineering: The Definitive Guide w/ Akhila Chitiprolu from Sierra | S2E3

What this episode covers

If you enjoy the podcast, feel free to subscribe to the GRC Engineer newsletter: grcengineer.com/subscribeIn this episode of The GRC Engineering Podcast, host Ayoub Fandi speaks with Akhila Chitiprolu, head of GRC at Sierra and former GRC leader at Stripe, Expedia, and T-Mobile.Akhila shares her journey from engineering to GRC leadership and offers deep insights on transforming traditional compliance into engineering-driven programs that scale with modern technology companies. Drawing from over a decade of experience across tech, fintech, telecom, and AI, she provides practical strategies for building GRC Engineering capabilities from the ground up.Whether you're just starting your GRC Engineering journey or looking to scale existing efforts, this episode provides tactical advice on:- Transforming control design for automation and scalability- Convincing traditional auditors to accept API-driven evidence- Building the business case for GRC Engineering investments- Developing effective collaborations between technical and non-technical GRC staff- Measuring and demonstrating the value of engineering-driven compliance- Creating a roadmap for continuous control monitoringKey topics covered:00:00 Introduction and guest background02:58 Evolution of GRC: From spreadsheets to engineering-driven approaches04:05 The biggest pain point: Evidence collection at scale across multiple frameworks05:38 Why control design matters more than evidence automation alone11:20 The tipping point for GRC Engineering adoption in organizations13:30 Breaking down GRC process phases and where engineering adds value26:52 How to work with auditors on engineering evidence and build trust31:53 Build vs. Buy: Finding the right approach for your organization size37:10 Building relationships with engineering teams through shared pain points39:33 How compliance can become an engineering roadmap for platform teams42:04 Key principles for scaling GRC Engineering programs beyond initial wins48:19 GRC Engineers & Analysts: Working together effectively across skill sets53:41 The magic wand question: Asset to control view and community education

PodParley-generated summary based on available episode metadata and transcript content.