CEO Insights Magazine

Cyberattacks are much like a market crash, which is sudden, disruptive, and often devastating. They can bring down entire systems and networks, halting operations and leading to financial losses, data breaches, reputational damage, and even legal consequences. With thousands of cyberattacks occurring every minute, costing businesses billions, cybersecurity is no longer optional, it is essential. Many businesses now recognize the importance of outsourcing network security to professionals who can provide 24/7 monitoring and protection.

One such trusted cybersecurity expert lending cyber protection to companies across the globe is Network Box. The Hong Kong headquartered company delivers fast, extensive, assured and costeffective managed IT security solutions. Established in 1999, the company has built a reputation for its proactive approach to cybersecurity, offering continuous monitoring and rapid threat response. Unlike traditional security solutions that rely on periodic updates, Network Box PUSH Updates its security measures every eight seconds, ensuring real-time protection against evolving cyber threats. With a network of Security Operations Centres (SOCs) across the world, including a strong presence in Singapore, the company provides round-the-clock surveillance and instant threat mitigation.

Below is an exclusive conversation with Jan Van Leersum, Managing Director of Network Box Singapore, where he shares insights into the company, its cybersecurity solutions, and his professional journey.

Tell us about your professional experience and the motivation that fuels your daily routines.

My career spans decades of leadership in international manufacturing operations, financial management, acquisitions, business development, results-driven strategy execution and cyber security. I began at Reed International PLC in 1968, advancing from Quality Assurance Manager to Works Manager. By 1992, I was appointed as Managing Director at Alabastine Holland BV, where I led process modernization, operational efficiency improvements, and European distribution expansion.

At Williams Holdings, UK, I joined the team to integrate Chubb PLC Group companies and establishing a structured group purchasing strategy, achieving substantial cost reductions. As Managing Director (Statutory) and Board Member at Chubb Netherlands, I was responsible for strategy, P&L, and operations across multiple entities, including Chubb Lips Safes and sales companies in Belgium and Germany. Following Gunnebo AB's acquisition of Chubb Safe businesses in 2000, I was promoted to Vice President of International Sales and Business at Gunnebo AB, Sweden, driving global business development for the market leader in physical security solutions.

Beyond corporate leadership, I have built a diverse entrepreneurial portfolio, founding Pack Sol BV Netherlands (Air Freight sector), VL International Management Pte Ltd (specializing in Asian market entry and investment advisory), and Network Box (SIN) Pte Ltd, where I remain a co-founder and shareholder, delivering advanced cybersecurity solutions.

My passion for working with people and ability to motivate teams to bring out their best has been a key constant in my career. Any success I’ve had is not just my own but the result of collective effort. I firmly believe that to be a good leader, you must also be a good follower, and this philosophy has guided me throughout my career.

Tell us about Network Box and how it ensures cybersecurity and client support.

Network Box was co-founded in 1999 by Michael Gazeley and Mark Web Johnson to provide top-tier cybersecurity protection. With a mission to deliver fast, extensive, assured and cost-effective managed IT security, the platform offers cutting-edge solutions that safeguard businesses of all sizes against evolving cyber threats.

What sets Network Box apart is the commitment to security. Everything we do is encrypted, ensuring nothing is left unprotected. We don’t just offer a cybersecurity platform, we provide ongoing support through a dedicated team of engineers. Clients can reach us via WhatsApp, email, or our structured e-ticketing system. This level of engagement fosters a strong bond with our clients.

What sets your cybersecurity platform apart from traditional solutions?

Cybersecurity originally focused on detection and remediation, identifying threats after damage occurred. Network Box has taken a different approach since the inception, named Manage, Detect, and Response (MDR). Only in the past five to ten years have other platforms embraced this proactive model. Traditional systems update firewalls or antivirus software periodically, sometimes only once a week. In contrast, our platform updates every 8 seconds, ensuring continuous protection with the latest threat intelligence. Our headquarters inspects 800 million data packets daily, sharing insights with over 70 security partners worldwide.

What truly distinguishes us apart is our response speed. When a new threat is identified, we design and deploy a security update to 3,500+ client locations within 45 seconds, fully automated and remote. Key clients, including reputable by chains that are spread across 120+ locations worldwide, are protected by our Security Operations Centre (SOC) in Hong Kong. This underscores that wherever the client is located, Network Box manages & protects remotely.

Describe leadership approach at Network Box and key methodologies.

At Network Box, we foster a culture of open communication where every team member is encouraged to share ideas and concerns freely. Our leadership philosophy is rooted in the principle of Primus Inter Pares, which means first among equals. I often describe our approach using the inverted pyramid model, in which the leader is positioned at the bottom, supporting the management team, which in turn empowers middle management and ultimately the frontline staff, whether they work in the factory or interact directly with clients.

In my role, along-side my partner Kliff Chia, the focus is on facilitating and supporting the team, trusting them to make the right decisions while stepping in with clear direction during moments of crisis or urgency. To me, effective leadership means striking the right balance between empowering the team to excel independently and providing decisive leadership when needed.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?

We aim to further grow the business by expanding our client base across both large enterprises and SMEs. It has taken time to build our reputation in cybersecurity, a field where trust is paramount, regardless of having the best solution and affordable pricing. We currently protect larger enterprises across seven countries from our Singapore base. One of these is Courts, a major retailer in Singapore & Malaysia, already for 10 years. In 2019, our approval by the Singapore government enabled local SMEs to benefit from grants further solidified our market presence. This balanced portfolio of reputable large clients and growing SME engagements forms the roadmap for our expansion over the next five years.

Jan Van Leersum, Managing Director, Network Box

Jan Van Leersum leads Network Box (SIN) Pte Ltd in delivering real-time cybersecurity solutions to combat evolving threats. His career spans decades of leadership in international manufacturing operations, financial management, acquisitions, business development, results-driven strategy execution and cyber security. As an experienced industry leader, he is driven by a passion for working with people and ability to motivate teams to bring out their best.

• Hobbies: Playing Bridge & Cycling

• Favorite Cuisine: Asian

• Favorite Book: Millenium (Stieg Larsson)

• Favorite Travel Destination: Bangkok, Taipei & Ho Chi Minh

• Awards & Recognition: Recognized by my Wife and  awarded every day