By Chris Skeldon 
Check Point Software, in collaboration with consulting firm IDC, launched a joint study entitled: The Changing Role of CISOs. The survey surveyed 847 cybersecurity decision-makers globally (50 of whom were from Brazil, representing 5.9% of respondents) and revealed a strategic shift: security decision-makers are migrating from a fearful stance to a growth mindset, aligning cybersecurity strategies with goals. the job.
This comprehensive analysis not only highlights concerns about the economic slowdown and budget constraints, but also shows how IT managers are becoming increasingly business-savvy, signaling a significant evolution from traditional roles to strategic business enablers.
Amid economic pressures and rapid technological change, IT managers are not only security leaders, they are also essential drivers of innovation and business growth.
“The research clearly demonstrates the dynamic and evolving role of CIOs in today’s digital-first organizations. Under economic pressures and rapid technological change, CIOs are not only security leaders, they are also critical drivers of innovation and business growth.” The findings underscore the importance of strategic collaboration between CIOs and IT managers, highlighting the need for a unified approach to cybersecurity that is aligned with broader business goals.”
“Check Point Software’s commitment to leading and innovative cybersecurity solutions supports this evolution, allowing organizations to successfully address these challenges,” emphasized Eduardo Gonçalves, National Director, Check Point Software Brazil.
The most important findings of the research entitled “The Changing Role of Information Security Secretaries” were:
Economic and financial pressures
With an economic downturn looming, IT managers are under pressure to provide effective cybersecurity without compromising business growth initiatives. Organizations are looking to modernize their IT infrastructure as a foundation for digital transformation, noting the need for security strategies that support progress rather than hinder it.
Security as a business enabler
The research highlights the shift in the role of IT managers who are becoming more business aware. This transformation is characterized by a shift from traditional fear-based security postures to growth-oriented strategies that are aligned with overall business objectives. This evolution is supported by Check Point Software's focus on simplifying and standardizing security solutions to effectively solve cost and management inefficiencies.
The relationship between CIO and CISO
Regarding the complex dynamics between CIOs and IT managers, research indicates both alignment and divergence in priorities. While 94% of IT managers are satisfied with their CIO roles, there is a clear need for better collaboration to align IT and security priorities, especially around business agility and digital initiatives.
Digital transformation and security initiatives
There is a significant focus on modernizing IT to address new security challenges, with 65% of organizations planning to allocate 1% to 9% of their IT/security budgets to generative AI over the next 18 months. This investment reflects the critical role CIOs play in guiding IT modernization to achieve better business outcomes and highlights the importance of environmental sustainability in these efforts.
Placing growth against economic concerns
Despite economic concerns, the research also reveals that organizations remain in growth mode, with a focus on significant and rapid growth through digital initiatives. This signals a fundamental shift for security teams from a fear-based approach to adopting a growth mindset that enables digital initiatives and business expansion.
“The research highlights the evolving landscape where economic concerns, digital transformation, and the need for greater security effectiveness converge. Additionally, it reaffirms Check Point Software’s commitment to supporting CISOs with advanced cybersecurity solutions that enable business growth and resilience.”
The full IDC InfoBrief file, sponsored by Check Point Software, “The Changing Role of CISOs” (Document No. US51875024, March 2024), can be downloaded from the website. An accompanying infographic is also available from IDC entitled “How Enterprises Grow Is a Top Priority” (doc #US51839724, March 2024).
CISO Survey Participants Profile – IDC/Check Point Software
Decision makers or influencers in digital transformation.
Manager level in their current role (7% are IT Directors (n = 61) and a further 7% are IT Directors (n = 62).
Companies with more than 500 employees.
Organizations with annual revenues exceeding US$50 million.
Global coverage: North America (31%), Europe (30%), Asia Pacific (22%), Latin America (12%) and ANZ (5%).
50 leaders from Brazil, representing 5.9% of participants.
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