In today’s cybersecurity landscape, where a staggering 94% of companies have experienced identity-related breaches, CISOs are feeling a sense of urgency to bolster their organization’s identity and access management (IAM) practices. A recent survey of CISOs revealed that identity is now the top focus area as we enter the year 2025. Despite this recognition, the challenge remains in effectively conveying IAM’s value to the board of directors. It’s no longer sufficient for security leaders to devise sound IAM strategies – they must also secure buy-in and support from the board.
Executive support is crucial for obtaining the necessary funding and setting the right tone from the top. However, many CISOs struggle to articulate IAM’s value in business terms that resonate with the board and C-suite. The good news is that CISOs and their boards are engaging in more dialogue than ever before. By focusing on the business value of IAM rather than getting bogged down in technical details, CISOs can optimize their communication efforts and secure critical support for their IAM initiatives.
To assist CISOs in navigating tough questions and objections, a guide has been developed to help them effectively articulate the value of their IAM programs to the board and executive teams. Here are some key strategies outlined in the guide:
1. Frame IAM as a strategic business investment: It’s essential to align the IAM investment directly with the organization’s business priorities to showcase how it can drive measurable business value. By positioning IAM as a strategic enabler of key business outcomes, such as reducing operational risk and supporting digital transformation, CISOs can illustrate the program’s significance in achieving broader organizational goals.
2. Demonstrate IAM value through measurable metrics: C-level executives need to see quantifiable benefits to understand how the IAM program will deliver value. By establishing specific goals and outcome-based metrics, CISOs can illustrate how IAM is a value-generating investment that will improve business outcomes, reduce costs, and mitigate potential financial losses from security incidents.
3. Align IAM with specific security and business outcomes: CISOs must ensure that IAM initiatives align with both security and business objectives to demonstrate the program’s value as an asset rather than an expense. By linking specific security efforts to business outcomes, such as improving customer trust, satisfying regulatory requirements, and enhancing organizational resilience, CISOs can showcase how IAM supports broader organizational goals.
4. Highlight IAM’s long-term competitive advantage and resilience: Identity security is not solely about protecting the organization today but also about future-proofing investments against evolving threats. By emphasizing how IAM can sharpen competitive advantage, support business agility, and reduce long-term risks, CISOs can position identity security as a strategic enabler of growth, innovation, and business resilience.
Success in conveying the value of IAM to the board hinges on the preparation and opportunity meeting. Savvy security leaders recognize the importance of shaping a compelling cybersecurity strategy by translating technical details into a concise business narrative that resonates with the board. By effectively communicating the business value of IAM and demonstrating its role in reducing cybersecurity risks, enhancing customer trust, and driving business growth, CISOs can secure the necessary buy-in and funding for robust IAM strategies.