Introduction
Cyber incidents are no longer distant threats, and the scale of challenge is clear – 94% of organisations globally have experienced a disruptive cyberattack, with more than half facing multiple incidents. In the past year alone, data breaches at major corporations and government agencies in Australia have dominated headlines, forcing leaders to rethink their approach to security. Meanwhile, cybercriminals are moving faster, using artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to exploit vulnerabilities faster than businesses can respond, making it clear that reacting to threats is no longer enough – businesses must anticipate them to prevent disruption.
As cyber risks escalate, so does the role of the Chief Information Security Office (CISO). No longer confined to the IT department, CISOs are emerging as key players in shaping business strategy. According to Splunk’s CISO Report 2025, 82% of CISOs interact directly with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and 83% regularly engage with their board – reflecting a broader shift in how cybersecurity is perceived. Cybersecurity has moved beyond protecting systems. Instead, it’s a fundamental part of digital resilience, ensuring businesses can operate, adapt and grow in an evolving risk landscape. As a result, executive leadership is leaning on CISOs not just for technical expertise but for strategic guidance on managing risk and for long-term business stability.
Is having a seat at the table enough? To drive real impact, CISOs need to bridge the gap between security and business objectives, communicating risks and solutions in a way that resonates with executives on the board. Digital resilience starts with the CISO-board relationship, which is deepening as cybersecurity continues to be a business priority. With more opportunities for engagement, CISOs need to position cybersecurity as a business enabler rather than a cost centre – securing support, investment and influence all at once.
So, what are the key steps CISOs can take to strengthen this relationship and put their business on the path to digital resilience?
Speak the Language of Business
Latest data from Splunk indicates that while most board members (84%) feel that their CISOs meet expectations, only a small percentage (8%) believe those expectations are exceeded. This suggests a need for CISOs to communicate the value of cybersecurity more effectively. Instead of focusing solely on technical details, CISOs must align their priorities with broader business goals and articulate cybersecurity’s strategic importance.
By focusing on return on investments (ROI), CISOs can better demonstrate their initiatives’ impact on the business. Proactive investment in security tools helps prevent costly downtime, lost revenue and reputational harm – risks that extend far beyond IT. To put it into perspective, a single cyber incident can cause a company’s stock price to drop by as much as 9%, with long term consequences for shareholder confidence. Similarly, running real world scenarios, such as simulated cyberattacks, helps the board understand the practical benefits of robust cybersecurity plans.
Clear, jargon-free communication is also essential. For example, a CISO could say that investing in AI-driven security tools can reduce Mean-Time-To-Detect (MTTD) and Mean-Time-To-Respond (MTTR) from hours to minutes, preventing downtime and minimising business disruption.
Reframe Cybersecurity as a Business Enabler
A significant barrier to stronger CISO-board collaboration is the perception of cybersecurity as a budget line rather than a driver of growth. Many CISOs report insufficient funds for their cybersecurity initiatives, with only 29% receiving adequate funding. Additionally, the growing threat landscape and regulatory environment leave many CISOs worried they are not doing enough to secure their business.
Changing this perception starts with positioning cybersecurity as an enabler of business success. For example, investments in AI-driven defences can provide businesses with a competitive edge, a sentiment shared by 53% of CISOs.
Effective communication is essential, along with developing soft skills such as emotional intelligence and an understanding of how executives prefer to receive information. These skills help build stronger, trust-based relationships with the board.
Own Compliance and Prepare for Accountability
As regulations tighten in Australia, such as new mandates requiring businesses to report ransomware payments within 72 hours, CISOs are facing greater accountability for cybersecurity failures. Nearly 60% say they would consider whistleblowing if their business ignored compliance requirements. At the same time, businesses need to determine which cyber incidents are material and significant enough to disclose. Without clear definitions, they risk misjudging the impact, leading to regulatory and reputational consequences.
To stay ahead, CISOs need to understand local regulations and their personal liability under the law. Engaging legal counsel can help review employment contracts and identify gaps in liability protections. Just as important, CISOs also need to educate the board on compliance risks, ensuring leadership understands the legal and financial consequences of non-compliance.
A strong CISO-board partnership is the foundation of digital resilience. The most successful CISOs will be those who can translate security risks into business terms, align cybersecurity initiatives with revenue growth, and proactively engage their boards in meaningful conversations about risk and resilience. It’s the start of a truly beautiful relationship.
