Jake Braunsdorf
Senior Manager,
Deloitte
Communicating Cybersecurity Issues to Trustees: Empowering CISOs for a Seat at the Table
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 | 11:30AM–12:30PM ET | Harborside Ballroom C, 4th Floor
Session Type:
Breakout Session
Delivery Format:
Presentation/Panel
For many campus CISOs, the journey from technical expert to executive leader is filled with challenges. While deep cybersecurity knowledge is essential for the day-to-day CISO role, it is not enough to gain the trust and influence needed at the highest levels of institutional leadership. To be seen as strategic business leaders rather than just security specialists, CISOs must develop new skills in communication, financial acumen, risk management, and executive presence. This session will explore the critical competencies that CISOs need to cultivate before they can successfully effectively engage with a college or university's board of trustees. Topics will include: 1.) Understanding boardroom priorities and aligning cybersecurity with institutional objectives. 2.) Developing financial literacy to articulate cybersecurity investments in terms of ROI and risk reduction. 3.) Mastering storytelling and communication techniques to translate complex security issues into executive-level insights. 4.) Building influence and credibility with senior leadership to shift from a reactive security role to a proactive business enabler. By honing these skills, CISOs can position themselves as strategic partners who drive institutional resilience and innovation—earning the confidence of their institutional board and securing a meaningful voice in campus decision-making.
