Cybersecurity for CEOs: Where Do You Start?

Cybersecurity is a leadership issue. There may have been a time when CEOs could leave cybersecurity to the IT people and focus on other aspects of running a business. Unfortunately, that time has passed. Here’s why:

1. The business impact. Cyberattacks can have severe consequences for an organization’s operations, finances, reputation, and even legal standing.
2. Compliance. The regulations around security are getting tighter – as are the fines.
3. Risk management. It’s up to the leader to make informed decisions about how to effectively manage and mitigate risk.
4. Strategic planning. To be truly effective, security should match and support the goals of the business.
5. Cultural influence. The culture of the business begins and ends in the boardroom. And if the business leaders take it seriously, it sends a strong message to every stakeholder.

In essence, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue. It’s a strategic imperative that requires strong leadership. And the leaders who understand the importance of cybersecurity and actively prioritise it will be better positioned to keep their organizations safe.

Which leads to the question: where do you start? We asked some of our best CIOs what they think is the best place CEOs should begin to ensure security. Watch the video and decide for yourself which starting point makes the most sense for your business.

We’ve also got a related list of the 10 cybersecurity questions CEOs need to ask their IT team or supplier. The answers (or non-answers) will give you a clearer picture of the risks to your own business and the step you need to take.

10 cybersecurity questions CEOs need to ask their IT team or supplier

Either way, security begins and ends with the C-suite. You don’t have to do the tech stuff yourself, but you do have to ask the right questions—and ensure you’re satisfied with the answers.