CISO vs CTO: Striking the balance between security and innovation
In today’s digital-first world, the roles of the Chief Information Security Officer and the Chief Technology Officer are more critical than ever. While both drive technology within an organisation, their priorities often clash
In today's organisations, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) play vital roles in driving technology-led success. Though both focus on technology, their priorities and responsibilities often differ, which can spark tension. Understanding these roles—and where they overlap or clash—can help firms encourage better teamwork between the two.
The CISO's main job is to protect the organisation's information and IT systems. This involves crafting and managing the cybersecurity strategy, safeguarding sensitive data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and reducing cyber risks. They oversee security policies, conduct risk assessments, handle incidents, and ensure adherence to standards like GDPR or PCI-DSS.
In contrast, the CTO drives technological innovation and digital transformation. They focus on developing new tech to boost business growth, prioritising efficiency, innovation, and keeping pace with trends. Their tasks include leading product development, managing the tech stack, spearheading R&D, and ensuring systems are scalable and high-performing. Security matters, but it's not their top concern.
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These differing goals can lead to friction. A key clash arises between security and innovation: the CISO's focus on safety can hinder the CTO's push for new tech. For instance, the CTO might champion cutting-edge cloud solutions, while the CISO hesitates, wary of vulnerabilities or breaches. This can slow progress as security checks delay adoption.
Risk appetite is another sticking point. The CTO often accepts higher risks to advance the business, while the CISO works to minimise them. This can spark disputes when the CTO proposes bold moves without fully weighing security, which the CISO might veto. The CTO seeks agility for growth, but the CISO's compliance obligations can feel restrictive, adding to the tension.
Resource allocation also stirs conflict. With limited budgets, the CISO needs funds to secure systems, while the CTO vies for R&D cash. Both may compete for the same pot, disagreeing on priorities. Likewise, the CTO might want open data access to streamline operations, but the CISO imposes limits to protect privacy, creating a tug-of-war between business needs and security.
Reporting lines can worsen matters. The CTO typically answers to the CEO or COO, aligning with growth goals, while the CISO might report to the CIO, CRO, or CEO. This split can muddle priorities and decision-making. For example, the CTO might rush to adopt new tech, only for the CISO, reporting elsewhere, to flag risks, stalling progress or misaligning aims.
This friction makes sense—both roles are crucial but approach their goals differently. The CTO drives growth and performance through innovation; the CISO protects assets and cuts risks. The CTO needs speed and flexibility, while the CISO takes a cautious, protective stance. Misalignment breeds conflict.
Yet, this tension can be constructive. It forces better decisions, balancing innovation and security. A global financial firm faced this when its CTO pushed for a cloud solution, but the CISO flagged compliance risks. Through collaboration, they devised a secure rollout, showing how both can align for success.
Security expert Bruce Schneier said, "Security is not the opposite of innovation. Security is the enabler of innovation." This highlights the need for teamwork. The CISO's caution ensures safe progress, not stalled growth. Together, they can advance without sacrificing safety.
To ease tensions, regular communication is key. The CISO and CTO should discuss priorities and align with the firm's long-term goals. Cross-functional teams blending security and tech staff can build understanding. Agile security practices and a shared risk framework can balance both sides effectively.
Though clashes between the CISO and CTO are unavoidable, managing them well can improve decisions and outcomes. Open dialogue and shared objectives let them drive growth while keeping security and compliance intact.
B M Zahid ul Haque is an Experienced CISO and Cyber Digital Transformation Strategist. The author can be reached at bmzahidul.haque@gmail.com.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
