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Career role

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The CISO is the top security executive, responsible for the organization's entire security strategy. You'll set security vision, manage security teams and budgets, report to the board, and ensure the organization is protected against cyber threats.

AdvancedAlso known as VP of Security, Director of Information Security, Head of Cybersecurity
Plan my route to this role

Why choose this role?

The pinnacle of security careers. You'll shape organizational security, influence business strategy, and lead teams. Highest compensation and impact, but requires extensive experience and strong leadership skills.

Work environment

Setting
Mid to large enterprises, across all industries
Schedule
Executive schedule with significant flexibility and responsibility
Remote work
Hybrid common, but on-site presence expected for executive role
Experience
Executive (15+ years in security, 5+ in leadership)

Education requirements

Bachelor's required, Master's (MBA or MS in Cybersecurity) strongly preferred

Key responsibilities

  • Define and execute organizational security strategy
  • Manage security budget and resources
  • Lead security teams across all functions
  • Report security posture to board and executives
  • Manage major security incidents and crises
  • Build security culture across the organization

Required skills

Strategic thinking and visionExecutive communication and presentationBudget and resource managementRisk management and decision-makingLeadership and team developmentDeep technical security knowledge

Career path

  1. Previous roles
    Director of SecuritySecurity ManagerSecurity Architect
  2. This role
    Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
    Time to next level: Varies - often a career pinnacle
  3. Next roles
    CIOCTOBoard Advisor

Certifications we recommend

Our editorial picks, based on what each exam covers. They don't show how often employers ask for a certification.

Advanced1

Expert2

ISACA

Expert

Certified Information Security Manager

Verifies that you can run an information security program, and ISACA checks five years of security management experience before granting it

Exam
$760
Study
6-12 months