Deepthi Bala
Deepthi Bala is a Senior Internal Auditor at Indeed.com, bringing over 17 years of experience across risk management, systems analysis, business analysis, and global internal audit. At Indeed, she specializes in data protection and global compliance, leveraging her analytical expertise to ensure robust and secure organizational practices. Deepthi’s professional credentials, including Certified Scrum Master and Dare to Lead training, complement her technical authority, and her published work on biometrics and security reflects her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field.
Beyond her technical career, Deepthi is a dynamic community leader and entrepreneur. She co-founded Austin Dreams Events, a women-empowering, design-focused events company, and has organized inclusive children’s debut events and fashion shows. Deepthi uses her title as Mrs. Austin Universe 2025 to further her mission of confidence-building and community engagement, highlighting the importance of visibility, recognition, and empowerment in both professional and personal spheres.
Deepthi is passionate about fostering financial independence and serving as a role model for her daughters. She aspires to launch her own small business in the coming year, blending her entrepreneurial spirit with her analytical skills and leadership experience. Her career reflects a unique balance of technical expertise and public-facing leadership, demonstrating that success can be measured not only in professional achievements but also in the positive impact one makes on their community.
• Dare to Lead Trained
• Certified Scrum Master
• Kennesaw State University - MS
• Mrs. Austin Universe 2025
• Scrum Alliance
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my discipline, a structured approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to continuous learning. I strive to balance analytical rigor with strong leadership and empathy, both in my professional work and in my community involvement.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received, though not stated directly, has always guided me: build your skills, build your confidence, and never wait too long to showcase what you’ve earned.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is: don’t hide your accomplishments, as visibility is a professional advantage. Stay curious and be open to rotational or cross-functional opportunities, as they can redefine your career. Focus on building strong foundational skills in analysis, documentation, and communication. Seek leadership training early, because soft skills are just as important as technical expertise in audit and risk roles. Most importantly, use your voice — it builds credibility, confidence, and long-term opportunity.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now include the increasing complexity of global data protection and compliance requirements, constantly evolving risk landscapes across finance, sales, CRM, and data privacy, and the growing need for internal auditors to develop cross-disciplinary skills.
At the same time, there are significant opportunities: greater visibility and leadership roles for women in risk, audit, and compliance; rising demand for professionals who understand both technical systems and business processes; chances to lead community education on digital safety, biometrics, and security, areas where I already have expertise; and increasing emphasis on personal branding within compliance roles, which aligns with my goals for future entrepreneurship.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are integrity and transparency, especially in internal audit and compliance. I prioritize service and empowerment, which I demonstrate through my events company and mentorship. Confidence, visibility, and representation are central to my approach, particularly as a mother raising daughters. I also value financial independence and stability, striving to model these for my family. Finally, inclusivity and community-building guide my efforts, whether through children’s events, fashion initiatives, or women-centered programming.
Locations
Indeed.com
Austin, TX 11111