SECURE horizons
WE ’ RE BUILDING A COMMUNITY – AND YOU ’ RE INVITED TO JOIN US
I t ’ s fair to say that , for some time , cybersecurity was a matter of self-preservation . Assessing risks , implementing tools and procedures , and hunkering down to keep defences tight and attackers out . But it ’ s 2024 , cybersecurity is a boardroom issue and the role of Chief Information Security Officer has evolved to something entirely different . While security has always been about people and processes , the modern CISO has a much broader remit and a key responsibility to communicate and collaborate with colleagues and peers . Communicating risk with the CEO , articulating the ROI of cybersecurity initiatives with the CFO , embedding cybersecurity into new digital initiatives and working closely with the CIO on broader technology strategy means it ’ s no longer a siloed role . I asked our Editorial team for their take on the attributes of a present-day CISO and some of the key words that cropped up were :
• Agile , prudent and perceptive
• An enthusiastic and clear communicator ; passionately knowledgeable with a finger on the pulse of the industry ; sharing knowledge and enthusiasm to encourage both those considering a cybersecurity career and those wanting to excel within it
• Transparent , aware and knowledgeable
Other notes were :
Speak the language of the business
Needs to understand the company mission and articulate how their work – and the work of their team , if applicable – supports that mission in creating a security-focused culture throughout the organisation . Be able to effectively communicate the impact cybersecurity has on the company .
Be a collaborator
Cultivate the emotional intelligence to work across departments and maintain relationships with each . Cybersecurity cannot operate in isolation – it needs the support and input from every other part of the business .
Strategic focus
The ability to focus on strategic priorities rather than reacting to them , maintaining heightened awareness in an increasingly multifaceted attack environment . Making the case for investment in the tools needed for a company to be confident in its cyberdefences , ensuring all departments are ‘ threat aware ’ and recruiting the right ‘ talent ’ to shape a company ’ s security landscape .
Leverage AI
A modern CISO must be able to leverage AI to enhance cybersecurity strategies . By doing so , CISOs can analyse vast amounts of data in real-time , identify patterns , predict potential threats and make informed decisions quickly .
Align with business goals
A modern CISO must align cybersecurity initiatives with the broader business goals , ensuring that security measures support the company ’ s growth and innovation , and are not a hindrance .
Make the case for cybersecurity
Effective communication with the C-suite and other stakeholders is crucial , as the CISO needs to advocate for cybersecurity investments
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