What: RH-ISAC has released another benchmark report "Prioritizing Security for Success - Analyzing Organizational Security Structures," in addition to their 2024 CISO report, that analyzes staffing data, organizational priorities, and other key indicators to offer insight into cybersecurity teams across the the consumer goods & services, retail, hospitality, and travel industries. This report can help teams discern security functions to prioritize amidst the evolving cyberthreat landscape.

This Cybersecurity Organogram Analysis dives into the organizational intricacies of cybersecurity functions, highlighting key functions that are paramount.

Why it is important: In the bustling realm of today's digital landscape, where data reigns supreme and cyber threats loom ever larger, safeguarding sensitive information has become an imperative for organizations worldwide. Amid this backdrop, Accenture in partnership with RHISAC, embarked on a research exercise, delving into the cybersecurity organizational structures by analyzing the Security Organograms of 66 companies across the Consumer Goods & Services (CG&S), Retail, and Travel & Hospitality industries.

Within this landscape, organizational structure emerges as the backbone of cybersecurity efforts, dictating how resources are allocated, strategies devised, and risks managed. Since the digital world connects everything, ensuring its security is essential, as digital exposure and vulnerabilities continues to expand.

First, prioritizing cybersecurity involves integrating it into organizational strategy and culture, requiring a clear understanding of risks and their potential business impact. This also highlights the importance of leadership endorsement in securing adequate resources and support for cybersecurity initiatives. Second, optimizing efficiency becomes possible by uncovering organizational inefficiencies or bottlenecks, enabling companies to streamline processes,allocate resources effectively and enhance operational efficiency. Third, examination of cybersecurity organizational layouts aids in identifying and mitigating potential security risks, allowing proactive measures to address vulnerabilities and shield against cyber threats.

The comparative analysis of cybersecurity structures across industries provide valuable benchmarks and insights into best practices, empowering organizations to adopt proven strategies and bolster their cybersecurity posture.

2024 Organizational security structures report