Overcoming challenges in securing business buy-in for cyber security strategies

With reports indicating that over 45% of businesses have experienced a cyber breach this year (2024) alone, it’s crucial for business leaders to understand that aligning business goals with security goals isn’t just an IT issue – it’s a business issue.

At a recent Longwall workshop, we spoke with security specialists about the challenges they face when demonstrating the value of vulnerability management and other cyber security solutions to business leaders.

We’ve compiled a list of ways to support security specialists with those conversations, and overcome challenges they face in securing business-wide buy-in for security solutions.

• Assurances for controls:

Ensure that there are robust controls in place to manage and mitigate vulnerabilities. This includes regular testing and validation to confirm these controls are effective.

• Compliance assurance:

Maintain compliance with industry standards and regulations related to vulnerability management. This includes adhering to frameworks like NIST, ISO, and GDPR, where applicable.

• Business impact from controls:

Evaluate and understand the business impact of implementing and maintaining vulnerability management controls. Prioritise vulnerabilities that pose the greatest risk to business operations.

• Ownership of risk:

Clearly define and assign ownership of risks associated with vulnerabilities. Ensure accountability at appropriate levels within the organisation.

• C-suite buy-in & understanding:

Secure CxOs buy-in by ensuring they have a clear understanding of the importance of vulnerability management. Regularly brief CxOs on the status and progress of vulnerability management and other cyber security efforts.

• Context reported to C-suite:

Provide CxOs with relevant context and detailed reports on vulnerabilities, including risk assessments and remediation plans. Ensure they are kept informed about critical vulnerabilities and the measures taken to address them.

• Business goals vs security goals:

Align cyber security efforts with both business and security goals. Ensure that security measures do not impede business operations, but support overall organisational objectives.

• Culture:

Foster a culture of security awareness and proactive vulnerability management across the organisation. Encourage continuous learning and improvement in security practices.

• Consequences of threats:

Clearly communicate the potential consequences of unaddressed vulnerabilities to CxOs. This includes potential financial losses, reputational damage, operational disruptions, and legal implications.

• Configuration management:

Implement configuration management practices to ensure that systems and applications are consistently and securely configured. Regularly review and update configurations to close potential vulnerabilities.

• Technologies/people/processes:

Integrate appropriate technologies, skilled personnel, and well-defined processes to effectively manage vulnerabilities. Ensure that the CxOs are aware of the right tools and expertise required to identify, assess, and remediate vulnerabilities promptly.