MCSI #025: So you want to become a CISO?
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MCSI #025: So you want to become a CISO?#
The role of a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is multifaceted and challenging. Understanding the nuances of this position is crucial for anyone aspiring to step into this critical role. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a CISO.
The Many Faces of a CISO#
“Incompatibility between CISOs and their companies can lead to stress, frustration, burnout and rapid turnover. Identify your CISO style to target the ideal role and environment for you.” - Alissa Irei, TechRadar
Did you know there could be as many as 6 different types of CISOs? From technical experts to strategic visionaries, the range is vast. Identifying which type aligns with your skills and aspirations is paramount. Make sure to understand the specific demands of each type to avoid landing in a role that doesn’t suit you.
Transformational CISO
Post-breach CISO
Tactical and operational expert CISO
Compliance and risk guru CISO
Steady-state CISO
Customer-facing evangelist CISO
The Vast Scope of Responsibilities#
The CISO bears a vast range of responsibilities, from developing and executing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy to ensuring regulatory compliance and leading incident response. This role also involves securing organizational assets, managing a dedicated security team, and integrating cybersecurity into all business operations. With a duty to bridge technical and business realms, the CISO’s role is critical and wide-ranging, affecting every aspect of an organization’s security posture.
The Budget War#
“They reallocated my budget to buy iPads.” - A friend that once was a CISO
Many CISOs find themselves in a constant struggle for resources. Despite the title, they often don’t have the authority to secure the budgets necessary for implementing critical security controls or expanding their teams. This limitation can significantly impact the effectiveness of the organization’s security posture.
The Scapegoat Scenario#
“I have one piece of advice for you. Whenever you face a breach, open each envelope in turn.
Envelop 1. Blame your predecessor
Envelop 2. Blame your team
Envelop 3. Prepare three envelopes”
Being a CISO can sometimes feel thankless. Without major security incidents, their work goes unnoticed, but when a breach occurs, they are often the first to be blamed. This aspect of the role can be particularly challenging, as it requires maintaining robust security measures while being prepared to take responsibility for any lapses.
Ethical Dilemmas#
“How do some organizations meet their cyber obligations and expectations whilst avoiding the high cost of cyber security? They use two business instruments that we call Dark Compliance and Dark Risk Management.” - Benjamin Mossé
Alarmingly, some CISOs are pressured into unethical practices, such as downplaying security incidents or vulnerabilities to save costs or effort. This situation places CISOs in a precarious position, balancing between corporate expectations and ethical standards in cybersecurity management.
Benjamin’s Advice#
Achieving the pinnacle title in cybersecurity is an admirable goal, yet many overlook the immense responsibilities and challenging work environment that come with it. It’s essential to stay true to your passion for technology, valuing personal fulfilment over social status. For those aspiring to be CISOs, beginning with “CISO as a Service” can provide practical experience, focusing on real security enhancements. Choose an organization and team that resonate with you.