Tell us about your current role and how you got there.
I completed my bachelor’s in Electronics and Telecommunications and gradually transitioned into project management, where I began taking on cybersecurity responsibilities. I hold the CCISO certification from EC-Council, which reflects my strong commitment to cybersecurity governance and risk management.
Over time, my focus shifted to information security, particularly governance, risk management, and compliance. In my recent roles, I have handled auditing responsibilities, and I currently serve as an information security specialist in the financial industry. My professional background centers on building and maintaining strong security frameworks that help organizations align their information security initiatives with business objectives.
How has the CCISO program helped you overcome challenges in your current role?
The CCISO certification has been instrumental in bridging the gap between technical tasks and managerial responsibilities.
It covers a broad range of activities typically performed by mid-level and senior cybersecurity leaders. The program helped me understand how different aspects of cybersecurity interact and work together to support broader business goals.
What makes CCISO different from other industry certifications?
CCISO stands out because it effectively bridges the gap between technical cybersecurity knowledge and strategic information security leadership. It provides a high-level perspective on cybersecurity and focuses heavily on governance, risk management, and compliance. The certification also emphasizes how these components align with organizational processes and legal frameworks at the international level.
How did the CCISO certification positively impact your career progression?
The certification enhanced my credibility and visibility as a cybersecurity leader. It became a key differentiator during job applications and helped me stand out among other candidates. On a personal level, it significantly boosted my confidence when managing information security programs and communicating with diverse stakeholders.
The CCISO program offered comprehensive coverage of essential information security domains, strengthening my professional profile.
How important are the CCISO domain areas for success in a cybersecurity leadership role?
The five CCISO domains represent the core competencies required for any aspiring CISO or cybersecurity leader:
- Governance and Management: Teaches you to define the organization’s direction and ensure security initiatives align with business goals.
- Information Security Management: Equips you to design and implement controls and processes that build a secure operational environment.
- Compliance and Audit Management: prepares you to ensure processes comply with regulations and internal frameworks.
- Security Program Management: Learn to shape the organization’s security profile and ensure programs operate effectively.
- Core Competencies & Vendor Management: Develops capabilities in vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, stakeholder collaboration, and managing third-party risks, all of which are critical in today’s cloud-driven environment.
What were your most significant learnings from the CCISO program?
The program taught me to think strategically and align security initiatives with business outcomes. I gained a deeper understanding of risk assessment and its role in decision-making. The CCISO also strengthened my communication skills, helping me adjust my approach when speaking to different audiences.
Additionally, it emphasized the importance of governance and compliance, providing a broad understanding of how organizations function. Overall, the program reinforced the value of being proactive, adaptable, and continuously improving as a leader.
Among the five domains, which one was your favorite and why?
My favorite domain was Governance and Risk Management because it laid the foundation for all aspects of information security. Governance is essential for setting the organization’s direction, prioritizing resources, and understanding how assets can be used effectively within a well-defined risk framework.
Would you recommend the CCISO certification to peers aiming for executive roles in cybersecurity?
Absolutely. CCISO offers real-world scenarios and case studies that allow learners to compare theory with practical industry situations.
It equips professionals with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to close gaps in their technical or academic background and advance their careers as cybersecurity leaders.
Conclusion
The CCISO certification proves invaluable for aspiring cybersecurity leaders by offering practical, strategic, and governance-focused knowledge. It enhances confidence, credibility, and decision-making, enabling professionals to manage complex security programs effectively. Overall, CCISO equips individuals with the essential leadership skills needed to lead security initiatives and support long-term business success.
About the Interviewee
With over 20 years of experience in information security, this professional specializes in cyber risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and GRC frameworks such as GDPR and ISO 27001. Skilled in developing security protocols, training teams, and mitigating vulnerabilities, they are committed to safeguarding data and driving robust cybersecurity strategies.
