About CTOsec

I help startup CTOs meet enterprise security demands and close B2B deals faster.

Evidence-led security that earns trust and drives growth.

Hi, I'm Craig Balding.

I founded CTOsec to help startup CTOs navigate the maze of enterprise cybersecurity expectations — without slowing innovation or adding unnecessary bureaucracy.

I've spent nearly two decades building, breaking, and securing complex systems across global enterprises.
At General Electric, I founded & led the GE Red Team, driving hands-on threat simulations that made defences stronger company-wide.
Later, as Group Security CTO at Barclays, I was accountable for emerging security technologies, cloud strategy & enterprise assurance and was a Barclays Incubator mentor.

Today, through CTOsec, I bring that experience to startups — helping you:

• Decode what enterprise security questionnaires really mean
• Focus effort where it matters most
• Present credible evidence that satisfies enterprise buyers

You'll gain the confidence and clarity to close B2B deals faster and show that your security posture matches your ambitions.

My Approach

Security should enable your commercial goals — not block them.
That's why my work focuses on evidence, proportion, & pragmatism.

Whether you need help completing a complex due-diligence questionnaire, achieving ISO 27001 readiness, or demonstrating credible assurance to investors & prospects, my role is to make it achievable & aligned with your stage, risk appetite, & goals.

I don't sell scan reports or vendor services — I help you build & demonstrate security that earns trust.

My Background

• Founder & Original Director, GE Red Team
• Former Group Security CTO, Barclays PLC
• 17 years in enterprise security leadership
• 5 years independent advisory across startups & global firms
• Deep experience spanning application, cloud, & platform security

I'm based in Budapest, Hungary, & work with clients across Europe & beyond.

Ready to earn enterprise trust without the enterprise baggage?

Let's discuss how I can help you navigate enterprise requirements and accelerate your next B2B deal.

👉 Book an Intro Call