Become a CISO
Working as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is a C-suite level position and the pinnacle of IT and security. Learn how to establish and maintain enterprise-wide information security strategy as a CISO.
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Taught by CISOs for CISOs, this Career Path will provide you with a structured curriculum with specialized learning activities that will give you real-world training on how to become a successful CISO in the ever-changing security field. You will learn about corporate cybersecurity management, NIST 800-53 security and privacy controls, business continuity and disaster planning, enterprise security case management, and numerous competencies of the effective CISO.
Frequently Asked Questions
It typically takes many years to become the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for an organization, but the work will be worth it. Over a period of years, IT professionals gain technical experience and other non-technical skills and knowledge that help make a great leader. Professionals in the CISO role usually have work experience, education, and certifications in information security.
A CISO is the leader of an organization’s IT security department and its team members. This is a senior-level management position responsible for selecting, overseeing, and providing leadership for any initiatives that concern the overall security of an organization. The CISO role requires technical and non-technical skills and knowledge that is learned both academically and through work experience.
Every organization is different, so there really isn’t a universally accepted reporting structure. An organization’s size, industry, and the role the CISO will play all have to be considered. The best reporting structure for a company will allow for effective communication and swift progress. It will ensure that all cybersecurity elements are covered, no matter which reporting structure is used. That said, CISOs often report to these executive leaders: Chief Information Officer (CIO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Risk Officer (CRO), Chief Executive Officer (CEO), or the Board of Directors.
A Chief Information Officer (CIO) is concerned with general technical issues facing an organization. For example, the CIO may work with the budget for new computers or for software upgrades. A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is concerned with the overall security of an organization’s computer systems and databases. The CISO is familiar with all the systems that are used in an organization, but their main focus is the security of those systems. For example, the CISO will ensure that security protocols are followed when new hardware is upgraded, or new software is installed. When the CIO and the CISO work well together, it ensures that the organization’s operations maintain the highest level of efficiency and safety.
Most organizations look for someone with 8-10 years experience in a Cybersecurity or IT management role, and a CISSP and/or CRISC certification. For professionals with less than 8 years of security management experience, we recommend the SOC Analyst 3 or Cyber Security Engineer career paths.
How Long Will It Take To Be Job Ready?
I can dedicate
hours per week
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What Will I Learn?
Leadership and Management
Focused on program design and oversight. Covers project and program management.
