How are CIOs balancing risk, trust, and opportunity

As companies become more tech-forward, CIOs play a critical role in leading digital strategy while balancing risks and opportunities.

Technology is increasingly driving how work is done. For many organizations, competitive advantage hinges on the CIO’s ability to safeguard against the expanding cyber threat landscape, while contributing to business value. This new reality requires CIOs to recognize the scope of digital transformation while helping internal partners pursue growth opportunities within a rapidly expanding digital environment.

With CIOs serving as both technology leader and strategic partner, they need to refocus their efforts along four imperatives:

Zero trust on the front burner

As bad actors become increasingly sophisticated, companies are shifting their focus to zero-trust strategies — re-authenticating every user — both human and machine — at every connection.

Navigating new SEC cybersecurity rules

CIOs face the complex task of determining materiality in disclosing cybersecurity incidents under the recently adopted SEC cybersecurity rules. Ensuring compliance requires proactive communication with the board and the business, providing comprehensive IT updates on internal and external cyber issues and trends.

Prioritizing third-party risk management

To tackle increasing cyber incidents linked to third-party suppliers and vendors, CIOs are encouraged to reassess high-impact relationships, perform annual security audits, and enhance transparency to build trust across the supply chain.

Assessing AI and automation opportunities and challenges

Most CIOs are taking the lead in driving the adoption of enterprise and generative AI and automation. To harness the full potential of these technologies, organizations must start by building awareness through upskilling, reskilling, and bringing in new talent where needed.

Looking ahead

With an ever-expanding array of technologies at their disposal, CIOs must keep a discerning eye on emerging security and privacy threats as they work to safeguard their organization's digital assets, drive innovation efforts, and accelerate their journey toward greater efficiency and agility.