Are you eyeing a senior-level cybersecurity position? The chief information security officer (CISO) plays a crucial role in protecting an organization’s data and digital assets, and with the rise of data breaches and cyber attacks, this role is more critical than ever. If you’re interested in a high-impact, high-salary career, this guide is for you.
What Is a Chief Information Security Officer?
A chief information security officer is an executive leadership professional who oversees information security for a business or organization. This includes everything from strategic planning and assessing risk to developing digital security policies and overseeing incident response in the event of a data breach or cyberattack.
Chief Information Security Officer vs. Chief Security Officer
A chief security officer (CSO) oversees all aspects of security, including physical elements such as building facilities and personnel. While dealing with information security and cybersecurity are often included in a CSO’s responsibilities, they are not the sole focus of the position. A CISO, on the other hand, only handles the security of an organization’s systems and data.
In some ways, the roles overlap, especially in terms of risk management and incident response. Depending on the position and size of the organization, a CISO may have more cybersecurity expertise and technical skills, whereas a CISO typically understands the intricacies of building surveillance, alarm systems and an overall security strategy.
It’s important to point out that smaller organizations may only employ a CSO who handles all aspects of security, including information technology.
Career Landscape
Cybersecurity jobs in general are on the rise as businesses and organizations continue to recognize and prioritize the importance of protecting their digital assets and safeguarding sensitive information.
Executive-level positions across all types of industries, including both CISO and CSO roles, are projected to grow 3% between 2022 and 2032, accounting for approximately 311,000 openings every year.
Career Path: How to Become a Chief Information Security Officer
Becoming a successful chief information security officer involves a combination of experience, education and specialized knowledge and skills.
- The first step is to obtain a relevant bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Recommended fields of study include computer science and related disciplines, with coursework prioritizing information technology and cybersecurity.
- Start building your technical experience by obtaining an entry-level position in network administration, security analysis, systems administration or IT auditing.
- Earning a relevant master’s degree is highly recommended if you’re looking to advance, especially since most CISO positions require it. Plus, many master’s degree programs will provide you with valuable leadership and management training, which senior-level roles typically require.
- After you’ve spent time gaining experience in an entry-level position, apply for more mid-level roles such as security engineer, security consultant, IT manager or information security manager.
- Consider supplementing your education with cybersecurity-specific certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
- Don’t overlook the importance of leadership experience. Many roles require at least seven years of management experience for CISO-type positions.
- Stay on top of industry trends and build a strong professional network. Attend cybersecurity-related conferences, seminars and professional organizations. Connect with experienced security professionals and ask for informational interviews in order to learn more about senior-level positions.
- Once you have the education and experience under your belt, start applying for CISO positions. Be prepared to discuss current challenges and trends, and make sure you demonstrate your leadership capabilities and convey your strategic vision for enhancing IT security.
Chief Information Security Officer Salary
A chief information security officer’s salary can vary widely depending on factors such as organization size, qualifications, responsibilities, geographic location and industry. Here are some general salary figures to keep in mind:
- ZipRecruiter reports an average CISO salary of $148,746 with a range of $70,000 to $232,000.
- Glassdoor lists a base pay range of $183,000 to $291,000 and a total pay range of $299,000 to $509,000, which can include cash bonuses, commission, tips and profit sharing.
Skills Needed to Become a Chief Information Security Officer
A successful CISO needs a combination of technical expertise, soft skills and leadership capabilities to succeed in the role.
- Technical skills include knowledge of risk management, compliance and a comprehensive understanding of IT networks and operations, including security technologies, vulnerability management and incident response.
- Since a CISO is a senior-level role, leadership, management and business skills are often essential, including the ability to oversee employees, manage large-scale projects and work alongside other departments.
- Just as important are analytical and interpersonal skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, time management, organization and excellent communication.
What Makes a Good CISO?
A successful chief information security officer not only possesses the right expertise and experience but also demonstrates strong leadership skills and can effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences.
This position requires the ability to think strategically and work well under pressure. A good CISO should also embody ethical integrity, a collaborative mindset and a continued desire to learn.
Where Can You Work as a Chief Information Security Officer?
As a CISO, you can find opportunities across a wide range of industries and sectors, including health care, education, finance, technology, business and retail.
Recent postings on LinkedIn for CISO-related positions include:
- Major League Soccer
- GM Financial
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
- TreeHouse Foods
- CarGurus
- State of South Dakota
- U.S. Department of Transportation
- Walmart
- Bryn Mawr College
FAQs
Citations
University of San Diego, “What is a Chief Security Officer? — High Demand, ‘Skyrocketing’ Pay for CSOs, https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/what-is-a-chief-security-officer-high-demand-skyrocketing-pay-for-csos/.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “ Top Executives, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm.”
IC-Council Cybersecurity Exchange, “How to Become a CISO (Chief Information Security Officer), https://www.eccouncil.org/cybersecurity-exchange/executive-management/how-to-become-ciso/.”
University of San Diego, “Top Cyber Security Certifications: Which Ones Are Right for You?, https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/is-a-cyber-security-certification-right-for-you/.”
University of San Diego, “Is the CISSP Certification Worth It?, https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/blog-cissp-certification/.”
University of San Diego, “Is the CEH Certificate Worth It? [12 Points to Consider], https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/ceh-certification/.”
University of San Diego, “Getting Your CISA Certification [10 Points to Consider], https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/cisa-certification/.”
The Muse, “How to Ask for an Informational Interview (and Get a “Yes”), https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-ask-for-an-informational-interview-and-get-a-yes.”
ZipRecruiter, “Chief Information Security Officer Salary, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Chief-Information-Security-Officer-Salary.”
Glassdoor, “How much does a Chief Information Security Officer make? https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/chief-information-security-officer-salary-SRCH_KO0,34.htm.”
LinkedIn, “Chief information security officer in United States, https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/search/?currentJobId=3943744447&keywords=chief%20information%20security%20officer&origin=JOBS_HOME_SEARCH_BUTTON&refresh=true&start=25.
CyberDegrees.org, “How to Become a Chief Information Security Officer, https://www.cyberdegrees.org/careers/chief-information-security-officer-ciso/how-to-become/.”
