The Top 10 Skills CISOs need in 2024>
Software Engineering Institute – Greg Touhill
The role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is increasingly critical due to technological advancements and emerging threats, particularly from artificial intelligence (AI) and legal/regulatory challenges.
As AI integrates more into business and deepfakes become more prevalent, CISOs must adapt to these challenges that could undermine public trust and exploit organizational vulnerabilities.
The future for CISOs, particularly looking towards 2024, is described as a high-pressure environment requiring a broad skill set.
Key skills for CISOs outlined include:
1\) **Mastering AI**: CISOs need deep understanding of AI technologies to leverage their benefits while managing risks.
2\) **Enhanced Communication**: Effective communication with boards and C-suites in breaking down complex technical issues into accessible, strategic discussions.
3\) **Business Acumen**: A better grasp of business operations, often suggested through pursuing an MBA, to align cybersecurity with business goals.
4\) **Risk Management**: Utilizing advanced metrics and quantification to manage the organization’s cyber risk posture amid evolving threats.
5\) **Supply Chain Risk Management**: Addressing cybersecurity risks within supply chains, accentuated by technology and third-party integrations.
6\) **Negotiation Skills**: As cybersecurity becomes integral to business processes, CISOs must negotiate effectively for resources.
7\) **Broadened Focus Beyond IT**: Moving past traditional IT-centric security to consider data across the business landscape, including operational technology.
8\) **Promoting Collaboration**: Encouraging cross-sector information sharing for improved sector security, utilizing models like those of the financial services sector.
9\) **Strategic Thinking**: Elevating from day-to-day operations to contribute to broader strategic business planning.
10\) **Recapitalization for Competitive Advantage**: Advocating for investment in updated security tools and human capital.
Looking beyond 2024, zero trust and AI will continue to be pivotal, with the CISO role possibly expanding to a chief security officer (CSO) overseeing all aspects of security.
Data’s value will increasingly be recognized, potentially appearing as assets in business financials.
The consistent message is that, due to the inevitability of security breaches, CISOs must evolve with the technological landscape, incorporating a blend of technical, managerial, and strategic skills to protect and enhance their organizations in a dynamic global environment.
Link: https://insights.sei.cmu.edu/blog/the-top-10-skills-cisos-need-in-2024/