As Artificial Intelligence becomes deeply embedded across business operations and Digital Transformation initiatives push data and workloads further into cloud and Edge Computing environments, adversaries are adapting just as quickly.

From more automated cyberattacks and highly targeted social engineering to growing pressure on critical infrastructure and software supply chains, the year ahead is expected to test the resilience of security teams at every level.

Against this backdrop, industry leaders are rethinking strategies, investments and operating models to stay ahead of emerging cyberthreats while balancing risk, regulation and business growth.

As cyberthreats grow more intelligent, automated and persistent, 2026 will challenge organisations to rethink how they defend people, platforms and critical data in an era defined by Artificial Intelligence-driven attacks and relentless digital change. We hear from leading experts who outline what they think 2026 will hold.

Here are some of the most interesting predictions for 2026.

Chris Jacob, Field CISO, Securonix

The CISO role splits into strategic and operational tracks

The CISO role has become too broad for one person to handle alone. In 2026, more organisations will separate the strategic and operational sides of security leadership.

One track will focus on enterprise risk, governance and alignment with the board. The other will manage day-to-day operations and technical execution. This structure will not dilute responsibility. It will strengthen it.

By creating two complementary leadership paths, companies will reduce burnout and improve focus. The strategic CISO will influence business direction, while operational leaders will ensure resilience and execution. The role will evolve into a sustainable model for long-term leadership success.

The CISO role has become too broad for one person to handle alone.

WWW. INTELLIGENTCISO. COM 25