June 26, 2024 at 05:49PM
Netskope’s global research reveals evolving CISO roles, with 92% facing tensions with the C-suite due to changes in cyber threats. 57% report increased risk appetite, driven by real cyber incidents and better data access. CISOs aim to be business enablers but struggle to innovate due to C-suite alignment issues. Netskope encourages CISOs to bridge the gap and balance security with business needs.
Key Takeaways from the Meeting Notes:
1. Shifts in the cyber threats landscape have led 92% of CISOs to report tensions with their CEOs and other C-suite members due to changes in risk appetite evaluation. Two-thirds of CISOs feel they are “walking a tightrope” between business needs and security perspective.
2. The research surveyed 1,031 CISOs worldwide, revealing that only 16% classified their current risk appetite as low, contradicting legacy stereotypes of CISOs as inherently risk averse.
3. Over half (57%) of the surveyed CISOs stated that their appetite for risk has increased in the last five years, possibly influenced by the increasing volume and sophistication of cyber threats.
4. The role of CISOs is evolving, with 65% now describing their responsibility in terms of improving business resilience rather than managing cyber risk.
5. 65% of CISOs surveyed believe the role is changing rapidly, with the majority considering themselves as business enablers and wanting to play a more active role in the future.
6. There is a desire among CISOs to align security strategies with business challenges and to gain a deep understanding of the C-suite’s focus, aiming to contribute to new revenues, drive efficiencies, and navigate regulatory requirements.
7. Netskope, as a global SASE leader, helps organizations apply zero trust principles and AI/ML innovations to protect data and defend against cyber threats.
The research was conducted by Censuswide and interviewed CISOs across five markets (UK, North America, France, Germany, Japan) in various sectors, including healthcare, retail, finance, and industry. More insights can be found in the full report here.