Billionaire Jay Chaudhry tells entrepreneurs: 'You want to do a great startup, get your spouse involved'

Jay Chaudhry is the founder-CEO of California-based cloud security giant Zscaler. (Image credit: Zscaler)

Jay Chaudhry, the 66-year-old cybersecurity titan and CEO of California-based cloud security giant Zscaler, attributes his rise in the tech world, which includes founding multiple acquired companies and amassing an estimated $17 billion net worth according to Forbes, primarily to the unwavering partnership of his wife, Jyoti Chaudhry. That's why he often advises aspiring entrepreneurs: “You want to do a great startup, get your spouse involved as a partner.”

Chaudhry, whose career boasts a string of successes including SecureIT, AirDefense, CipherTrust, and CoreHarbor – all of which were acquired – firmly believes in the power of teamwork. But, he emphatically told CNBC Make It, "the most important person for my success" is his wife, Jyoti Chaudhry. Without her, none of this thing would have happened.”

Their collaborative strength became evident from their first venture, SecureIT, co-founded in 1996. Chaudhry highlighted their complementary skill sets: "She comes from a strong finance background and MBA, and I come more from an engineering, product background.” He admitted to lacking expertise in crucial business fundamentals, stating, “I do not know how to incorporate a company. She does. I never, ever figured out the payrolls and benefits of a company.” Jyoti stepped in to fill these vital roles, ensuring SecureIT's growth. Their partnership even extends to home life, with Chaudhry joking, “I have no clue about our own financials,” deferring to her expertise.

Their contrasting personalities have also played a crucial role. Jay Chaudhry describes himself as a "risk taker" who is "ready to jump off the cliff," while his wife is "a lot more conservative." She provides the necessary balance, pulling him back to ensure they take "measured leaps." He told CNBC Make It that her consistent calmness, especially during the high-stress situations common in young companies, has been invaluable.