Executive Accountability
OversightControl Statement
The organization has appointed an executive responsible for the cyber risk strategy, the cyber risk framework and for cyber risk awareness and knowledge at the executive level.
Description
Appointing a senior executive with explicit accountability for cyber risk governance ensures that cybersecurity has appropriate representation in strategic decision-making. This executive (commonly a CISO, CRO, or equivalent) is responsible for the development and execution of the cyber risk strategy, the maintenance and effectiveness of the cyber risk framework, and for ensuring that the executive leadership team and board maintain sufficient awareness and understanding of cyber risks to fulfill their oversight responsibilities.
Key Implementation Activities
- 1 Formally appoint an executive-level role with documented responsibility for the cyber risk strategy, framework, and executive awareness program
- 2 Define the reporting structure to ensure the cyber risk executive has direct access to the board or a board committee
- 3 Establish regular executive and board briefings on cyber risk posture, emerging threats, and program effectiveness
- 4 Ensure the cyber risk executive has appropriate authority to make risk decisions and influence resource allocation
- 5 Document the role's mandate, scope of authority, and accountability in the organization's governance documentation
Evidence Examples
- Appointment letter or board resolution naming the executive responsible for cyber risk
- Role description or charter document defining responsibilities, authority, and reporting relationships
- Board and executive committee meeting minutes showing regular cyber risk briefings by the appointed executive
- Organizational chart showing the cyber risk executive's position and reporting lines
- Evidence of executive-level cyber risk awareness activities (briefings, training, tabletop exercises)
Maturity Levels
Cyber risk responsibilities are distributed informally or reside at a non-executive level. No single executive has clear accountability for the overall cyber risk program. Board engagement on cyber risk is minimal.
A named executive is formally accountable for cyber risk strategy and framework. Regular board reporting on cyber risk is established. The executive has a defined mandate and appropriate organizational authority.
The cyber risk executive is deeply integrated into enterprise strategic decision-making. Board engagement is proactive and includes scenario-based exercises. The role drives a culture of risk-aware decision-making across the organization.
Document Templates
Evidence Requirements View all evidence
| Type | Evidence Item | Frequency | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Document | Executive appointment letter, Board resolution, or charter naming the responsible executive | Updated upon change | Required |
| Document | Role charter defining mandate, authority, responsibilities, and reporting lines | Reviewed annually | Required |
| Record | Organizational chart showing the cyber risk executive position and reporting structure | Current | Required |
| Record | Board and Executive Committee meeting minutes showing regular cyber risk briefings | Per meeting (at least quarterly) | Required |
| Record | Executive/Board cyber risk awareness activities (briefing materials, tabletop exercise records) | At least annually | Required |
| Record | Board Risk Committee terms of reference including cyber risk oversight responsibilities | Reviewed annually | Expected |