What Interviewing for a CISO Role Can Tell Us About the State of Cyber in Business | A Conversation with Phil Beyer | Redefining CyberSecurity with Sean Martin

May 29, 2024

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Guest: Phil Beyer, Owner, Getting Security Done, Inc.

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/pjbeyer/

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Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

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Episode Notes

In this episode of the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, host Sean Martin is joined by Phil Beyer, former Head of Security at Etsy, to dive into the nuanced dynamics of interviewing for Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) roles. The discussion provides a multifaceted exploration of the CISO job market from both the employer and candidate perspectives, highlighting the evolving expectations and realities facing security leaders today.

Sean and Phil engage in a candid conversation about the state of the cybersecurity job market, emphasizing the shift towards an employer's market for CISO positions. This shift has intensified the challenges faced by candidates, including navigating interviews that may reveal deeper insights into an organization's cybersecurity program and its alignment (or lack thereof) with the candidate's vision and expertise.

Phil shares his experience and observations from his recent job searches, noting the complexities inherent in the process and the importance of aligning personal values and professional goals with potential roles. The episode touches on the importance of assessing the culture of potential employers and the critical role of the interviewing process in gauging fit on both sides.

A significant theme of the discussion is the need for transparency and clear communication between candidates and employers, particularly regarding the current state and desired direction of the cybersecurity program. Sean and Phil highlight how the expectations set during the interview process can significantly impact the ultimate success of the chosen CISO in driving the cybersecurity strategy forward.

Additionally, the episode addresses the broader implications of these hiring dynamics on the cybersecurity industry and the importance of fostering a community where shared experiences and strategies can lead to more effective leadership and program development.

Listeners will gain insights into the strategic considerations necessary for both CISO candidates and hiring organizations in today's complex cybersecurity landscape, as well as the leadership and relationship-building skills crucial for success in these influential roles.