Cybersecurity Executives Are Reorienting Themselves

“Cybersecurity professionals are under tremendous pressure,” said Deepti Gopal, director analyst at Gartner. “Either they get hacked or they don’t – they are always on the defensive. This situation has a direct psychological impact on the decisions and performance of executives and their teams.”

Given these dynamics, as well as the great opportunities for cybersecurity professionals in the job market, companies are at risk of a talent drain. Gartner’s research shows that, above all, compliance-focused cybersecurity programs, low levels of executive support and below-average maturity in the industry are warning signs that companies do not view security risk management as critical to business success. Companies of this type are likely to experience higher turnover as talent leaves for areas where they can make a greater impact and are more highly valued.

“Burnout and voluntary turnover are the consequences of a poor corporate culture,” Gopal said. “It may be an unrealistic goal to be able to take the stress out completely. However, in cultures where people experience support, they can handle incredibly demanding and stressful tasks.”