The journey to becoming a first Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for a company is often diverse and multifaceted, reflecting the broad range of skills and experiences needed to effectively secure an organization and build their security program. This article, a summary of my conversation with Dorene Rettas, Co-Founder for Cyber Security Tribe, provides insights into the role, challenges, and strategic considerations for cybersecurity professionals aiming to navigate the complexities of modern information security.
The Path to CISO
Many successful CISOs begin their careers in roles such as network administrators or help desk technicians, gaining a deep understanding of IT infrastructure and operations. This foundational knowledge is invaluable, providing a robust platform for developing specialized cybersecurity skills. Starting from managing IT security in the military to various roles in healthcare and finance, a broad technical expertise is essential for tackling the diverse challenges of cybersecurity leadership.
For further information on becoming a CISO, a selection of industry leading CISOs will provide more information in the upcoming webinar: “The Path to CISO”.
Recognizing the Need for a Dedicated Security Role
The decision to appoint a CISO after years of operation highlights a crucial turning point for many organizations. As businesses grow and regulatory requirements evolve, the complexity of managing security alongside other IT functions often necessitates a dedicated security leader. This shift ensures focused and effective management of cybersecurity risks, addressing the increasing security demands that come with organizational growth.
Navigating Initial Challenges: Building Trust and Understanding
Ellkay had been in business for 20 years before making the leap to hire a CISO. One of the primary challenges for a new CISO within a company is aligning their vision with organizational expectations. Building trust and relationships within the organization is essential before implementing new security measures. Understanding the culture, priorities, and concerns of stakeholders is crucial. A successful CISO must balance technical expertise with the ability to communicate effectively, fostering trust and collaboration across all levels of the organization.
Strategic Approach: Prioritizing Relationships and Continuous Education
The initial phase of a CISO’s role often involves a significant cultural and mindset shift within the organization. It is important to distinguish between IT compliance and comprehensive information security. While compliance with standards like ISO 27001 or SOC 2 is important, it represents only one aspect of a holistic security strategy. Developing a comprehensive security program requires addressing technological gaps, policy deficiencies, and process improvements.
Continuous education for both IT and security teams is a cornerstone of an effective strategy. Ensuring that team members are up-to-date with the latest threats, technologies, and best practices is vital for maintaining a robust security posture. This emphasis on ongoing training and professional development helps mitigate risks associated with outdated skills and knowledge, fostering a proactive and informed security culture.
The Reward of Building from the Ground Up
The opportunity to build a security program from the ground up is both a challenge and a significant reward. Developing policies, procedures, and technologies that form the foundation of the organization’s security infrastructure can be a source of professional pride. Watching the program evolve, gaining buy-in from colleagues, and witnessing a growing security awareness within the organization are key motivators for any CISO.
Advice for Aspiring CISOs: Listen and Learn
For those stepping into the role as a company’s first CISO, the advice is simple yet profound: listen and learn. Understanding the organization’s culture, the concerns of stakeholders, and the existing security landscape is crucial before making any significant changes. Building relationships and trust is the first step towards creating an effective security program. Demonstrating a genuine desire to understand the organization positions a new CISO as a trusted advisor and leader, capable of steering the organization towards a secure future.
