Why I became a Virtual CISO (vCISO)

As a Cybersecurity leader, I’ve spent years balancing security risks, regulatory pressures, and boardroom expectations. The role has evolved significantly, shifting from a technical function to a business-critical leadership position. While this change is exciting, it also brings increasing challenges, which are leading many security leaders, including myself, to reconsider how we contribute to cybersecurity.

One emerging trend is the move towards virtual CISO (vCISO) or fractional CISO (fCISO) consulting roles. This shift is driven by heightened accountability, growing workloads, and the desire for more flexibility.

The Increasing Challenges of the CISO Role

Being a modern Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) goes far beyond merely implementing security tools or preventing data breaches. In today's landscape, we are accountable for regulatory compliance, risk management, and business continuity. The stakes are higher than ever, particularly following the conviction of Uber’s former CISO, Joseph Sullivan. This incident has sparked a reconsideration among security leaders about their long-term career trajectories.

Moreover, we face the ongoing challenge of shaping perceptions. It is vital to continuously showcase our security programs' success while delivering difficult news when risks arise. This creates a precarious balancing act—secure excessive funding, and you may be labelled extravagant; request insufficient support, and you put the organisation at serious risk. Embracing this role effectively is not just about mitigation; it's about positioning security as an indispensable component of business strategy.

Who is a vCISO or a fCISO?

A Virtual CISO (vCISO) also known as a Fractional Chief Information Security Officer, is a highly skilled cybersecurity professional who provides organisations with expert CISO services on a flexible basis. These services can be offered part-time, through a contractual agreement, or as-needed, making them particularly appealing to small and mid-sized businesses that may not have the resources to hire a full-time CISO.

By engaging a vCISO, organisations can effectively manage their cybersecurity strategy, ensuring that they have a comprehensive plan to address potential threats and vulnerabilities. The vCISO also plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards, helping businesses navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity requirements.

Moreover, the vCISO can assist in risk management by identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with their information systems and data. This outsourcing model allows companies to tap into top-tier cybersecurity expertise, providing them with the strategic leadership and guidance they need to strengthen their cybersecurity posture without the significant costs and long-term commitment of hiring a full-time executive. This makes the vCISO an invaluable resource for organisations looking to enhance their security while maintaining operational flexibility. 

The Growing Appeal of vCISO Roles

As the need for robust cybersecurity grows, many seasoned CISOs are embracing the role of vCISOs. This shift enables them to share their extensive knowledge across various organisations, alleviating the pressure of addressing a single company's security challenges.

The demand for vCISOs is not only increasing, but also becoming essential. A recent report reveals that 75% of managed service providers acknowledge a significant need for vCISO services, and the market is anticipated to expand from $1.06 billion in 2024 to $1.48 billion by 2032. For small to mid-sized businesses, investing in strategic security guidance through a vCISO offers a cost-effective solution that delivers expert leadership without the financial burden of hiring a full-time CISO.

The Trade-offs: vCISO vs. Full-time CISO

Of course, making the switch isn’t without its downsides. As an in-house CISO, I had deep insight into my company’s culture, processes, and evolving risks. That level of integration is difficult to replicate as a consultant. Risk management isn’t just about policies—it’s about knowing the organisation inside and out.

Additionally, being a full-time CISO requires a certain level of ownership and accountability. While vCISOs provide invaluable guidance, they don’t always have the same authority or influence within an organisation’s leadership structure.

The Emerging Landscape of Security Leadership

For those contemplating a transition into consulting, this decision presents a valuable opportunity for personal and professional growth. Many are inspired by the diversity of working with multiple clients, while others pursue a better work-life balance. Regardless of the path chosen, it's evident that the cybersecurity landscape is evolving, offering us, as security leaders, new ways to make an impact.

Whether we take on the role of a full-time CISO or opt for a virtual CISO (vCISO) position, our mission remains focused—safeguarding businesses against cyber threats and guiding them through the complexities of today’s security environment. The crucial step is to identify the role that best complements our skills, values, and long-term goals, allowing us to thrive in this dynamic field.

Enhance Your Security Posture with me as your Virtual CISO

If your organisation is navigating cybersecurity challenges but isn’t ready for a full-time security executive, I can step in as your vCISO to provide expert guidance without the overhead of a full-time hire. With years of experience leading security programs, managing compliance, and mitigating cyber risks, I offer strategic, executive-level security leadership tailored to your business needs. Whether you need help building a security roadmap, strengthening your compliance posture, or responding to emerging threats, I provide hands-on, customised solutions that align with your goals. As a vCISO, I bring the expertise of a seasoned security leader—without the full-time cost—so you can focus on growing your business while ensuring your cybersecurity strategy is strong, scalable, and resilient. Let’s connect and discuss how I can help you secure your organisation effectively.