The role of the Chief Information Security Officer, or CISO, in an organization is to protect information and data and avoid possible information and data-related regulatory non-compliances.
A dedicated chief information security officer heads the information security function. CISO is a senior-level position in an organization to develop and implement the information security framework and processes at all levels.
The Role of the Chief Information Security Officer in an Organization
The Chief Information Security officer (CISO) serves as the process owner of all assurance activities related to the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of customers, business partners, employees, and business information in compliance with the organization’s information security policies.
A key element of the CISO’s role is working with executive management to determine acceptable levels of information security risk for the organization. This CISO is responsible for establishing and maintaining a company-wide information security management program to ensure that information assets are adequately protected.
Responsibilities of a CISO
The following are the core responsibilities that a CISO must ensure:
Develop, implement and monitor a strategic, comprehensive enterprise information security and information technology risk management program
Work directly with the business units to facilitate risk assessment and risk management processes
Develop and enhance an information security management framework
Understand and interact with related disciplines through committees to ensure the consistent application of policies and standards across all technology projects, systems, and services
Provide leadership to the enterprise’s information security organization
Partner with business stakeholders across the company to raise awareness of risk management concerns
Assist with the overall business technology planning, providing a current knowledge and future vision of technology and systems
Assist the Management Information Security Committee and provide feedback on the organization’s information security risks and issues
Functional and Behavioral Competencies and Skill Set
The following are the broader competencies that are required from a CISO:
Specific knowledge and working experience in the implementation of information security risk management framework
Knowledge of applicable data protection and information security-related laws and regulations
Negotiation and interpersonal skills
Working knowledge of systems, applications, servers, software, or other development practices
Experience with cloud computing
Experience working in virtualized environments
Innovative thinking and leadership with an ability to lead and motivate cross-functional, interdisciplinary teams
Presentation skills
Problem-solving skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced working environment
Final Thoughts
A chief information security officer, or CISO, is a senior executive who oversees an organization’s information, cyber, and technology security. The CISO is responsible for creating, implementing, and enforcing security policies to safeguard critical data.