Most Effective CISOs Have Business Background, Says IBM Security Leader

Don’t feel insecure about your lack of a heavy technical background, CISOs, because the most successful CISOs are those with a business background, said Kris Lovejoy, general manager of IBM Security Services, at an IBM security leadership forum Wednesday.

Lovejoy provided a preview of research IBM conducted about the state of the CISO; the full report will be released next month. Among the findings: Most CISOs report into IT (and the CIO) “because that’s where the money is,” while others are reporting to their CEO, chief operating officer, or chief administrative officer.