The first 90 days are crucial for a new security leader as they set the foundation for trust with senior leadership and the board. This period is not just about implementing security measures but also about understanding the company’s cyber risk landscape and aligning security strategies with business objectives. Establishing this trust is essential for securing the organization’s digital assets.

Metrics and KPIs are vital for demonstrating the effectiveness of a security program. They provide quantifiable data that showcases the return on investment for security initiatives and helps in justifying budget requests. While 79% of security leaders believe outcome-oriented KPIs are valuable, only 56% actively track them, which can hinder continued investment in cybersecurity.

To engage effectively with the board, a security leader should communicate in business terms, translating cybersecurity initiatives into their impact on the organization’s bottom line and reputation. Utilizing tools like heatmaps can help visualize security goals against risk profiles. Continuous engagement is key, focusing on the four Bs: Business, Budget, Benchmarking, and Buy-In, to foster a collaborative relationship.