What is a Chief Security Officer?

In business settings, one of the most important administrative positions is that of the Chief Security Officer. A CSO wears many hats but essentially bears responsibility for securing the integrity of human and physical resources including employees, clients, digital information, hard-copy data, assets and facilities. These highly-qualified individuals manage this security by providing oversight and leadership using a holistic approach to address issues in all operational areas. CSO leaders often go by alternate business titles such as Vice President of Operations, Chief Information Security Officer or Director of Corporate Security.

Responsibilities for CSO Positions

Today’s security measures affect how businesses can plan and promote their products and services without fearing fraud or loss of sensitive data and intellectual property. In response, a Chief Security Officer uses state-of-the-art technology, business strategies and legal guidelines to protect corporate goals and manage operational risks to people and information. Tasks that CSO administrators may be expected to perform include the following:

• Conduct threat assessments, develop security policies and incorporate them into company-wide security management practices.

• Implement protocols to address information storage, cloud computing, personal information devices, computing applications, information mobility and cyber attacks. .

• Supervise and train staff in using cutting-edge risk management strategies that prevent or deal with security breaches and their consequences.

• Consult with executive staff to prioritize security concerns and funding for risk management services.

• Coordinate with officials from federal, state and local agencies about emergency management procedures and risk management controls.

• Cooperate with outside agencies who conduct independent security audits.

CSO Qualifications

Preparing for a CSO career involves education and experience. CSO candidates typically hold a master’s degree with extensive coursework in business, technology and risk management. They have studied computer science, information technology, engineering principles, human resource management, business law, homeland security, quality assurance and cyber security. Many also hold important certifications in the field qualifying them for security clearances to work with government or military agencies. Finally, CSO candidates possess several years of work experience demonstrating the following important qualities:

• Exceptional planning, auditing and negotiation skills
• High-level written and verbal communication
• Broad scope of detailed knowledge about information technology and security systems
• Working knowledge about legal procedures and practices regarding security

Trends for CSO Jobs

To combat modern cyber criminals, hackers and other threats to business operations and success, more employers are looking for executives with a high degree of knowledge and expertise in risk management and security applications. Experienced information security analysts, information technology experts, former law enforcement, or military personnel with security backgrounds often have advantages for advancements into CSO positions. Salary and benefits for CEO positions in the United States vary depending on the type of business and its geographic location. According to Payscale and similar salary ranking websites, CEO jobs range from $81,705 to $199,629 nationwide while yielding annual median incomes around $138,563.

Related: Should Your Company Consider a Business Intelligence System?

Qualified CSO administrators are answering the call to deal with an increasing number of security issues that affect modern businesses and government institutions. In so doing, their leadership to control physical and information breaches that affect business success, intellectual property and the safety of people continues to shape the evolving role of the Chief Security Officer.