Book Image

Building a Cyber Resilient Business

By : Dr. Magda Lilia Chelly, Shamane Tan, Hai Tran
Book Image

Building a Cyber Resilient Business

By: Dr. Magda Lilia Chelly, Shamane Tan, Hai Tran

Overview of this book

With cyberattacks on the rise, it has become essential for C-suite executives and board members to step up and collectively recognize cyber risk as a top priority business risk. However, non-cyber executives find it challenging to understand their role in increasing the business’s cyber resilience due to its complex nature and the lack of a clear return on investment. This book demystifies the perception that cybersecurity is a technical problem, drawing parallels between the key responsibilities of the C-suite roles to line up with the mission of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). The book equips you with all you need to know about cyber risks to run the business effectively. Each chapter provides a holistic overview of the dynamic priorities of the C-suite (from the CFO to the CIO, COO, CRO, and so on), and unpacks how cybersecurity must be embedded in every business function. The book also contains self-assessment questions, which are a helpful tool in evaluating any major cybersecurity initiatives and/or investment required. With this book, you’ll have a deeper appreciation of the various ways all executives can contribute to the organization’s cyber program, in close collaboration with the CISO and the security team, and achieve a cyber-resilient, profitable, and sustainable business.
Table of Contents (14 chapters)

The COO and Their Critical Role in Cyber Resilience

In the previous chapters, we discussed various C-level executive (CxO) roles and responsibilities. This chapter discusses yet another critical executive in your team—the Chief Operating Officer (COO). The COO is the senior executive responsible for managing day-to-day administrative and operational activities. Typically, the COO reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and is often second in command to the CEO.

It is not uncommon for the COO to manage a company’s internal operations while the CEO serves as its public face, handling all outward-facing communications. As a result, the COO needs to be analytical and possess strong management, communication, and leadership skills. And as the second in command, the COO naturally plays a similar role to the CEO when it comes to their cybersecurity responsibilities.

The COO should proactively engage employees throughout the organization in tackling cybersecurity...