Security Governance, Leadership, and the Board: Insights for Business and Technology Execs from the Digital Directors Network DOMINO 23 Event

Security Governance, Leadership, and the Board: Insights for Business and Technology Execs from the Digital Directors Network DOMINO 23 Event

This IDC Perspective discusses the recent Digital Directors Network DOMINO '23 conference. As a result of expected changes in regulations for publicly traded companies and the increasing role of technology in the enterprise, there are increasing opportunities for technology and cybersecurity leaders to participate on boards of directors. Despite these increased opportunities, the number of technology and cybersecurity leaders seeking board roles will likely outnumber the available positions. To both qualify for and be considered to serve on boards of directors, IT and cybersecurity leaders should develop a plan that prepares them for board roles. This plan should detail how they will build their board presence, build a network that exposes them to board opportunities, build a record of broad accomplishment (and not just in technology and cybersecurity), become knowledgeable about corporate governance, and find their first board opportunity (which might be as an advisor or with a nonprofit organization, privately held company, private equity firm, or association). Technology and cybersecurity leaders should approach preparing for board roles just as they do other roles. What training and knowledge does the role require? What experience and accomplishments will set them apart from their peers? What are the expected behaviors in the role? What is the unique value the leader can provide to the board of directors and the organization? With whom should leaders network in order to know about potential board roles and for those seeking board members to know about them? "Seeking board roles is analogous to seeking other professional roles — but in an environment of limited demand and oversupply and so preparation is essential," says Niel Nickolaisen, adjunct research advisor with IDC's IT Executive Programs (IEP).

Please Note: Extended description available upon request.