The Information Security Forum (ISF)
has published Becoming a Next Generation CISO, the organizations latest
digest which sets out the range of disciplines a next-generation Chief
Information Security Officer (CISO) can be expected to master. These findings
highlight how those leading the information security function can react, grow
and ultimately prosper when confronted with today's uncertain times.
Today, more
than ever, CISOs are coming under pressure to secure organizations as they
embark on ambitious digital transformation programs in an increasingly hostile
and turbulent world. These demands are bringing about the rise of the
next-generation CISO, a security professional who is adapting to the evolving
environment, mastering new skills and advancing the discipline of information
security. Becoming a Next Generation CISO will help organizations
to better understand the forces at play that have prompted the emergence of the
next-generation CISO, and learn how to develop the novel characteristics and
capabilities that this demanding role will require now and in the future.
"As digital
transformation drives organizations to become more agile and responsive, the
CISO faces demands to quickly prove their worth as an enabling force, while
protecting the business in an increasingly turbulent risk environment," said
Steve Durbin, Managing Director, ISF. "Becoming a next-generation CISO requires
an individual to embrace and master new skills and disciplines, making
themselves indispensable, future-proof and highly sought after."
Building on
interviews with more than 40 CISOs, and extensive survey results, the
ISF's research into the changing role of the CISO has revealed six core
characteristics that next-generation leader's exhibit. These six do not stand
alone - there are many other factors in the make-up of the next-generation CISO,
however, they stand out as key differentiators of forward-looking
professionals.
The six
differentiating characteristics include:
- Balancing
Opportunity with Risk
- Demonstrating
Leadership
- Managing
Incidents and Crises
- Finding
Their Own Voice
- Dealing
with Regulatory Volume
- Handling Technology
"The CISO
is coming under pressure from many different directions. Whether this is
external, internal or personal, these forces have combined to create a
situation that demands a new approach - one that the next-generation CISO is
pioneering," continued Durbin. "Being a next-generation CISO is an extremely
rewarding position that allows an individual to become a pivotal member of
their organization, involved in and advising on almost every level. This role
will be welcomed almost anywhere as more and more organizations turn their
focus to the risks and opportunities of the evolving digital world."
Findings from
Becoming
a Next Generation CISO will be featured at ISF World Congress (Digital 2020), which takes place November 15-19, 2020. Now in its 31
st year, the annual
event provides the setting for
attendees to discuss and find solutions to today's most significant cyber
security challenges. For the first time,
the event will be held virtually, providing a unique online, interactive global event
experience, available in multiple time zones, allowing attendees to watch and
participate in the full show at times that best suit their schedules. For more information about Digital 2020, please visit the
ISF website.