There is a growing need among organisations, especially as they face external threats and an ever-changing threat landscape, to take a more rigorous approach towards cybersecurity. The role of CISOs is no longer limited to technology solutions and security controls; but, has become the focal point for business outcomes that run across the entire organisation. The role of CISOs is evolving to support business outcomes, helping organisations understand their competitive advantage and identifying new security needs.
The role of the CIO in managing cybersecurity is changing. Today’s IT leaders who understand and embrace the “cloudification” of IT must also be able to effectively manage business risk. CISOs can leverage their true strengths – strategic thinking, project management and business acumen – to transform themselves into innovative leaders who can deliver true benefits to their organisations.
The role of the chief information security officer has been changing over the past several years. Winning is not about merely defending against hacks but also building security into the business model, business processes and IT systems. While all organisations must compete, some are transforming from a defensive mode to proactive activities that promote employee growth and create an environment where employees are motivated to help prevent attacks.
The new emphasis on business outcomes means that all leaders in the organisation will be able to take advantage of the increased transparency, sharing and collaboration that comes from making business intelligence technology a core competency for the organisation.
Cybersecurity is foremost a business problem, but how can CISOs transform themselves into leaders and practitioners of a new business domain?
Their role is to create an environment in which people and IT can innovate, as well as protect from external threats.