What Leaders Should Focus On

As a seasoned executive with years of experience in cybersecurity leadership, I’ve seen how quickly the landscape can evolve. In my career, I’ve worked with organisations ranging from start-ups to multinational enterprises, and I’ve come to a clear conclusion: cybersecurity is not just a technical issue—it’s a leadership challenge.

The Role of Leadership in Cybersecurity

In today’s business environment, the responsibility for cybersecurity rests squarely with leadership. CEOs, CFOs, and other C-level executives must recognise that the stakes are higher than ever. Cybersecurity incidents can cripple operations, erode trust, and devastate a company’s bottom line. For 2025 and beyond, it’s critical that we embed security into every facet of our organisations.

At its core, leadership in cybersecurity means fostering a culture where security is everyone’s responsibility. This goes beyond compliance checklists. It involves aligning security initiatives with business goals, communicating their importance across the organisation, and ensuring that teams have the resources they need to succeed.

Learning from Experience

In my time leading global teams, I’ve encountered plenty of cybersecurity challenges. I recall one instance where a financial institution faced a wave of phishing attacks targeting its remote workforce. By prioritising employee training and deploying advanced threat detection, we reduced incidents by nearly half in just six months. This wasn’t achieved by chance but by having a clear strategy, committed leadership, and a team aligned with our mission.

Another memorable experience was during my tenure at a cybersecurity start-up. We faced a critical vulnerability that required immediate action. I remember working alongside engineers late into the night to develop and deploy a patch within 24 hours. That moment underscored the importance of swift decision-making, clear communication, and the dedication of a talented team.

Preparing for the Future

The threats we face in 2025 will require us to stay vigilant and adaptable. Here’s what I see as the top emerging challenges:

• AI-driven threats: As cybercriminals leverage artificial intelligence to launch more sophisticated attacks, we must counter with equally advanced defensive measures. Investing in AI-powered cybersecurity tools is critical, but leaders must also ensure their teams understand how to use these tools effectively. Combining human expertise with machine learning can provide an edge against evolving threats.
• Supply chain risks: Businesses today rely on a web of third-party vendors. Ensuring that these partners adhere to strong security protocols is no longer optional—it’s essential. Conducting regular supply chain risk assessments, implementing contractual security requirements, and maintaining transparent communication with vendors can significantly reduce exposure.
• Evolving data privacy regulations: From GDPR to state-level legislation, data privacy laws are becoming more stringent. Staying ahead requires proactive policy updates and rigorous compliance. This includes implementing robust data governance frameworks and providing regular training to ensure employees understand the importance of safeguarding sensitive information.

Looking ahead, leaders must also anticipate the potential implications of quantum computing. While this technology holds great promise, it could also render current encryption methods obsolete. Preparing for this shift by exploring quantum-resistant algorithms and staying informed about advancements in cryptography will be vital.

Strategic Actions for Leaders

For my fellow executives, here are three key steps to take:

1. Invest in top-tier talent: Cybersecurity requires skilled professionals who understand both the technical and business sides of security. Hiring and retaining the best talent should be a top priority. Beyond hiring, fostering an environment of continuous learning ensures your team stays ahead of emerging threats. Encourage certifications, offer regular training, and create pathways for career growth within your organisation.
2. Implement Zero Trust principles: The idea of “never trust, always verify” must guide our approach to system access. This reduces risk and limits potential damage from breaches. Practical steps include segmenting networks, enforcing multi-factor authentication, and regularly reviewing access privileges to ensure they remain appropriate.
3. Focus on resilience: Incidents will happen. The question is how quickly and effectively we can respond. Having a well-practiced incident response plan is critical to minimising downtime and reputational damage. Leaders should ensure these plans are regularly tested through tabletop exercises and simulations. Additionally, maintaining strong relationships with external partners—such as cybersecurity consultants and legal advisors—can provide valuable support during a crisis.

Additional Steps for Immediate Impact

To strengthen your organisation’s cybersecurity posture today, consider these actionable steps:

• Regularly update and test your incident response plan: Simulated breach scenarios can help identify gaps and ensure everyone knows their role during a real incident.
• Conduct periodic security audits: Assess both internal systems and third-party vendors to ensure compliance with security policies.
• Encourage open communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting potential threats or mistakes without fear of repercussions.
• Invest in ongoing education: Cybersecurity threats evolve rapidly. Regular training sessions keep your team informed about the latest threats and best practices.
• Monitor metrics that matter: Use dashboards to track key indicators like the time to detect and respond to threats, helping to fine-tune your strategies.

Leading the Way Forward

I’ve built my career on the belief that leadership in cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting assets—it’s about enabling growth and innovation. When organisations embed security into their culture and strategy, they gain a competitive advantage.

I remember speaking at a global cybersecurity conference a few years ago, where I emphasised that resilience and innovation go hand in hand. After my talk, a CISO approached me to discuss how my advice helped them pivot their strategy during a ransomware crisis. Hearing those stories reminds me why I do what I do.

As leaders, our job is to stay ahead of the curve, anticipate challenges, and act decisively. Cybersecurity is a journey, not a destination. In some cases, that journey is a long one with multiple layovers, disruptions, lost luggage, and cancelations. The steps we take today will define our success tomorrow. Let’s lead with purpose and make 2025 a year of progress and resilience.