In the world of cybersecurity, the relationship between CEOs and their chief information security officers (CISOs) is crucial. As the threat of cyber attacks continues to rise, it is more important than ever for these two roles to work closely together to protect the company’s data and reputation. However, a recent report from PwC has found that only 30% of CISOs feel they receive sufficient support from their CEO.

This lack of support is particularly troubling given the recent cases of SolarWinds and Uber, where CISOs faced criminal charges and regulatory scrutiny. With the cybersecurity landscape becoming increasingly complex and challenging, it is no wonder that Gartner predicts nearly half of cybersecurity leaders will change jobs by 2025 due to the stress of the role.

It is clear that high turnover in the CISO role is not beneficial for any organization, and it is in everyone’s best interest to have a stable and successful CISO. Supportive partnerships between CEOs and CISOs are essential in this regard. So, what can CEOs do to support their CISOs?

First and foremost, CEOs should ensure that the CISO has a direct line to the CEO. While many CISOs currently report to the CIO, it is important for the security chief and company chief to be in sync on cyber strategy and execution. With cybersecurity being such a vital part of the business, CEOs should take the time to review their communication and collaboration with their CISOs.

Additionally, CEOs need to have the CISO’s back. Empowering the CISO to lead and execute the cybersecurity mission, providing necessary resources, and showing empathy for the challenges of the role are all key aspects of being a supportive CEO. It is crucial for CEOs to understand the pressures and risks that CISOs face and to approve their efforts towards full transparency.

Furthermore, CEOs should work with the CISO to develop a resilience strategy. While prevention strategies are still important, the focus should also shift towards protecting critical data, limiting the impact of attacks, and ensuring business continuity. CEOs and CISOs need to collaborate closely on this shift towards resilience to effectively protect the company’s data and operations.

Lastly, CEOs and CISOs need to agree on the impact of AI on cybersecurity. As AI becomes both a tool for cybercriminals and defenders, it is important for CEOs to support the CISO in evaluating the use of AI in product development and customer support functions. By carefully weighing potential security risks, CEOs can help ensure that the company is prioritizing security over speed in the face of new technological advancements.

Overall, by following these suggestions, CEOs can play a crucial role in supporting their CISOs and helping them navigate the challenges of the cybersecurity landscape. By working together, CEOs and CISOs can not only protect the company from cyber threats but also benefit the organization as a whole.

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