What's Happening?
A recent report highlights a significant issue affecting Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in small and mid-market organizations: limited access to their company's board. According to the 2025 Compensation and Budget for CISOs in the Small and Middle Market report by IANS and Artico Search, nearly 40% of CISOs in these organizations have minimal or no access to full boards. This lack of engagement is linked to job dissatisfaction, with half of the CISOs who lack board interaction reporting dissatisfaction. Conversely, only 8% of CISOs with quarterly board access express job satisfaction. Marty Barrack, CISO, chief legal officer, and compliance officer at XiFin, emphasizes the importance of board access for CISOs to effectively perform their roles.
Why It's Important?
The lack of board access for CISOs is a critical issue as it impacts their ability to influence cybersecurity strategies and policies within their organizations. Without direct communication with the board, CISOs may struggle to secure necessary resources and support for cybersecurity initiatives, potentially leaving organizations vulnerable to cyber threats. This disconnect can lead to increased risk exposure and hinder the organization's ability to respond effectively to cyber incidents. The dissatisfaction among CISOs could also result in higher turnover rates, affecting the stability and continuity of cybersecurity leadership within companies.
What's Next?
Organizations may need to reassess their governance structures to ensure CISOs have adequate access to the board. This could involve restructuring communication channels or redefining the role of CISOs to include board-level engagement. As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, companies that prioritize board access for CISOs may be better positioned to address these challenges effectively. Stakeholders, including board members and executive leadership, might need to collaborate more closely with CISOs to align cybersecurity strategies with business objectives.
Beyond the Headlines
The issue of board access for CISOs also raises broader questions about corporate governance and the prioritization of cybersecurity within business operations. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the role of CISOs is increasingly critical, necessitating a shift in how organizations view and integrate cybersecurity leadership. This development could lead to a cultural shift within companies, where cybersecurity is seen as a strategic business function rather than a technical necessity.
