Not Ready for a CISO? Five Alternatives to Get the Security Leadership You Need
- Domini Clark
- Apr 2
- 5 min read
For many organizations, a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is essential for managing cyber risk, aligning security with business objectives, and ensuring regulatory compliance. However, not every company has the budget, operational need, or internal structure to support a full-time CISO.
Fortunately, there are strategic alternatives that provide executive-level security expertise without the long-term commitment of a permanent hire. Below, we explore five effective alternatives to hiring a full-time CISO and how each option can support your organization’s cybersecurity goals.
Option 1: Virtual or Fractional CISO
A Virtual or Fractional CISO (vCISO) is a part-time executive who provides CISO-level expertise without the expense of a full-time role. This option is particularly attractive for small to mid-sized companies that need strategic security leadership but don’t have the budget or ongoing demand for a dedicated CISO.
Advantages:
✔ Cost-Efficiency: Pay only for the hours or services you need, reducing expenses compared to a full-time hire.
✔ Access to High-Level Expertise: vCISOs bring specialized industry knowledge and experience across multiple organizations.
✔ Flexibility: They can scale their involvement up or down based on your organization’s evolving security needs.
Disadvantages:
✘ Limited Availability: A vCISO works with multiple clients, so response times may not be immediate in critical situations.
✘ Lack of Deep Integration: They aren’t embedded in daily operations or company culture, which can limit long-term strategic impact.
✘ Potential for Gaps in Execution: While they provide high-level strategy, a vCISO may not handle hands-on security implementation, requiring additional internal resources.
A vCISO can develop a cybersecurity roadmap, manage compliance, and oversee security operations—making it a flexible and cost-effective alternative. However, organizations with high-risk environments or complex security needs may require a more embedded, full-time leader for continuous oversight.
Option 2: Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)
A Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) delivers outsourced security services, covering everything from threat detection and incident response to compliance management and vulnerability assessments. By partnering with an MSSP, companies can offload security operations to a team of dedicated experts without building an in-house security team.
Advantages:
✔ 24/7 Security Monitoring: Round-the-clock threat detection and incident response ensure real-time protection.
✔ Scalability: Flexible service models make MSSPs a strong fit for growing companies or those with fluctuating security needs.
✔ Broad Expertise: Access to a team of cybersecurity specialists with deep industry knowledge.
Disadvantages:
✘ Lack of Strategic Oversight: MSSPs focus on operational security, not long-term strategy or executive leadership.
✘ Limited Customization: Standardized security solutions may not always align with your company’s unique risk profile and culture.
✘ Third-Party Dependency: Relying on an MSSP introduces vendor risks, such as service disruptions or limited direct oversight.
While an MSSP enhances operational security, it doesn’t replace the strategic vision of a CISO. Companies should assess whether they need day-to-day security management, long-term leadership, or both.
Option 3: Security Consultant or Advisory Firm
If your organization needs cybersecurity expertise for specific initiatives or high-stakes projects, a security consultant or advisory firm can provide targeted guidance without the long-term commitment of a CISO. Consultants often engage in risk assessments, compliance audits, or security policy development, offering specialized support as needed.
Advantages:
✔ Expertise on Demand: Access to specialized knowledge for specific security challenges or regulatory requirements.
✔ Flexible Engagements: Consulting services are customizable, allowing organizations to focus on specific projects or advisory services.
✔ Objective Perspective: A third-party consultant provides an unbiased evaluation of security risks that internal teams may overlook.
Disadvantages:
✘ Short-Term Engagements: Consultants focus on specific projects rather than ongoing security leadership.
✘ Limited Organizational Integration: External consultants may not fully understand company culture or evolving business needs.
✘ Higher Costs for Extended Support: Engaging consultants for long-term advisory services can become expensive.
A consultant can provide the expert insight needed for regulatory compliance, security audits, or critical security initiatives. However, companies seeking continuous leadership and oversight may require a more embedded solution.
Option 4: Internal Security Leadership with CISO Mentorship
If hiring a full-time CISO isn’t feasible, some companies promote an internal security leader—such as an IT Director or Security Manager—to oversee cybersecurity, with mentorship from an experienced CISO. This approach develops leadership in-house while ensuring executive-level guidance.
Advantages:
✔ Cost Savings: More affordable than hiring a senior CISO.
✔ Internal Knowledge: An existing employee already understands company culture, operations, and risk profile.
✔ Professional Development: A mentorship model helps build in-house security leadership for long-term sustainability.
Disadvantages:
✘ Limited Experience: Internal leaders may lack deep cybersecurity expertise, making mentorship essential.
✘ Slower Ramp-Up Time: Developing executive-level leadership takes time.
✘ Risk of Gaps in Leadership: A part-time mentor may not provide the same level of oversight as a dedicated CISO.
This approach cultivates cybersecurity leadership but works best when cyber risk is manageable and an experienced mentor is available.
Option 5: Cybersecurity Committee or Board Advisor
For organizations needing high-level security oversight but not day-to-day execution, establishing a cybersecurity committee or appointing a board advisor with cybersecurity expertise can help ensure security remains a business priority.
Advantages:
✔ Strategic Oversight: Ensures cybersecurity is embedded in business strategy and risk management.
✔ Accountability: A committee-driven approach promotes cross-functional security awareness.
✔ Executive-Level Guidance: Board advisors with cybersecurity expertise help shape long-term security strategy.
Disadvantages:
✘ Limited Operational Involvement: Committees provide guidance but don’t replace security execution.
✘ Inconsistent Engagement: Security discussions may not occur frequently enough to address rapidly evolving threats.
✘ Dependency on Internal Execution: Organizations must have strong security teams to implement recommendations.
A board advisor or committee is a strong governance tool but may need additional internal leadership for effective execution.
Which Option Is Right for Your Company?
The right approach depends on your organization’s size, risk level, and security needs:
Budget-conscious organizations → Consider a vCISO or internal leader with mentorship.
Companies needing 24/7 security monitoring → An MSSP provides continuous protection.
Organizations with specific project needs → A security consultant offers targeted expertise.
Businesses looking for board-level oversight → A cybersecurity advisor or committee provides strategic guidance.
Each option provides a pathway to more decisive cybersecurity leadership—allowing your company to protect its data, reputation, and long-term growth without the immediate need for a full-time CISO.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a CISO isn’t the only way to build strong cybersecurity leadership. Whether you choose a vCISO, MSSP, security consultant, internal mentorship, or board advisor, each alternative provides a flexible, cost-effective way to enhance your security strategy. By selecting the right solution, your organization can stay secure, resilient, and prepared for constantly evolving cyber risks—without the commitment of a full-time executive hire.
If you need help figuring out which CISO alternative is right for you, let us help.