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How the CISO’s role has evolved from gatekeeper to strategic visionary

Photographic portrait of Jaco Benadie
Jaco Benadie

EY ASEAN Cybersecurity Energy Leader and OT Cybersecurity Competency Lead

4 minute read 25 Oct 2024
Related topics
Cybersecurity
Consulting
Technology leader's agenda

CISOs must embrace their expanded role as strategic business leaders while avoiding common pitfalls to drive success in a dynamic landscape.

In brief

  • The role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has shifted from a technical gatekeeper to a strategic business guide.
  • This entails fostering an organization-wide culture of security, proactive risk management and expanding the CISO’s influence through collaboration.
  • Embracing strategic business leadership while avoiding common pitfalls is also crucial to help drive innovation securely amid rapidly evolving cyber threats.

The role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has evolved significantly in the dynamic tech landscape. CISOs have moved from the shadows of server rooms to the forefront of business strategy, now serving as pivotal advisors and leaders who navigate their companies through the complexities of cybersecurity.

This shift from technical gatekeepers to strategic guides has entailed a deliberate move away from obsolete practices toward a more innovative and visionary approach. Where CISOs once focused on halting potentially risky ventures, they now play a crucial role in integrating security throughout the business’s lifeblood, promoting both growth and resilience.

How EY can Help

Cultivating an organization-wide culture of security 

A key aspect of the modern CISO’s role is fostering a culture where security is everyone’s responsibility. By promoting awareness and integrating security practices into daily routines, CISOs empower every team member to contribute to the organization’s cybersecurity posture. This collaborative approach extends beyond the IT department, involving executives and new hires alike in maintaining a secure business environment.
 

Building a cybersecurity dream team is now a priority, with CISOs looking beyond technical knowledge to include individuals who understand various aspects of the business. Empowered by continuous learning and a shared commitment to security, this diverse team greatly bolsters the organization’s defense against cyber threats.

 

Proactive risk management and wider influence 

The days of CISOs only reacting to threats once they surface are long gone. Today, they are proactive risk managers who identify and prepare for potential cybersecurity challenges well in advance. This proactive stance is vital in an era where cyber threats rapidly evolve, demanding constant vigilance and adaptability. CISOs have also expanded their influence beyond their organizations, collaborating with industry peers, regulatory agencies and law enforcement to sculpt the cybersecurity landscape. By sharing insights and best practices, they not only reinforce their organization’s security but also contribute to the broader fight against cyber threats.

 

Embracing strategic business leadership in cybersecurity

For CISOs to fully embrace this transformation, they must emerge from the server room’s confines and take their place in the boardroom’s strategic discussions. This requires a profound understanding of both business and cybersecurity while positioning the latter as a key driver of business goals. CISOs are now at the forefront of securely integrating innovation to advance the business, highlighting the importance of a diverse team and an ethos of ongoing learning.

CISOs are redefining their roles, merging technical knowledge with strategic business leadership to help drive innovation and protect against rapidly evolving cyber threats.

This journey is not without its challenges, and CISOs must remain vigilant to avoid common pitfalls:

  • The strategy mirage: Avoid high-level strategy discussions that lack actionable plans. Clear outcomes and implementation paths are crucial.
  • The innovation paradox: Balance the adoption of new technologies with risk management to help achieve safe and beneficial innovation.
  • The lone wolf syndrome: Recognize that cybersecurity thrives on teamwork. A diverse skill set within the team is essential for a solid security posture.
  • The hindsight hang-up: Stay proactive by keeping abreast of the latest trends and threats, instead of focusing solely on past challenges.
  • The echo chamber effect: Seek growth by engaging in challenging dialogues across a wide range of perspectives and avoid the comfort of familiar agreement.

By staying alert to these pitfalls and proactively addressing them, CISOs can refine their strategies and lead their organizations more effectively.

The CISO’s evolution from a technical gatekeeper to a strategic guide is a direct response to the digital world’s changing dynamics. By embracing their expanded roles, modern CISOs demonstrate that cybersecurity is not just about protecting data but also playing a pivotal role in driving business success. As they chart new areas, their leadership becomes indispensable in helping their organizations secure a prosperous digital future.

Summary

The role of the CISO has evolved from focusing only on cybersecurity to being a strategic business leader. CISOs now cultivate an organization-wide culture of security and form cybersecurity teams with diverse experiences. They proactively manage cybersecurity risks and extend their influence beyond their companies to shape the cybersecurity landscape. This transformation is essential for navigating the complexities of the digital age and driving business growth and resilience.

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    About this article

    Photographic portrait of Jaco Benadie
    Jaco Benadie
    EY ASEAN Cybersecurity Energy Leader and OT Cybersecurity Competency Lead
    Protecting the digital landscape from cyber threats. Passionate about supporting the safety and reliability of industrial processes that power the world we know.
    Related topics
    Cybersecurity
    Consulting
    Technology leader's agenda

    EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.