The pandemic has driven an acceleration in digital transformation,1 exposing organisations to higher levels of cyber risks. Therefore, organisations must consider cybersecurity no longer as an operational necessity, but more of a top-level strategic priority. Hepfer and Powell2 conducted interviews with senior executives and reported that a problem arises when executives, who generally have technical expertise in areas such as engineering, finance or marketing, assign strategic priorities based on their own expertise. To develop and implement an integrated cybersecurity strategy, executives need new skills and knowledge related to cybersecurity. We put these findings into perspective in relation to the benefits of diversity on boards of directors and in senior management.
TALENT SHORTAGE AND THE GENDER GAP
Following the digital acceleration, Despite this remarkable growth, the cybersecurity industry faces a glaring talent shortage. For 2022, Cybersecurity Ventures estimates that the lack of skilled workers in cybersecurity is the equivalent of 3.5 million jobs.