Grit & Grind | Charles Green | Hard Lessons, Smart Growth, Real Success.

How to Tackle IT Risk in Growing Businesses

Written by Charles Green | Dec 12, 2024 5:58:21 AM

In today’s newsletter, we’re tackling a critical challenge faced by many growing businesses: unmanaged IT risk.

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your operations, having access to a security advisor or Fractional CISO (Chief Information Security Officer) is vital for your business’s short- and long-term health. Without one, you could find yourself feeling uncertain, stressed, and at risk of a security incident—a potential recipe for disaster.

Many businesses attempt to address this issue by pushing security responsibilities onto a technical founder, an engineering manager, or a freelancer. While this might seem cost-effective, it often leads to inconsistent results, a lack of accountability, or worse—gaps in your security that leave you vulnerable.

So, what’s the solution? Instead of trying to repurpose internal staff or relying on short-term fixes, consider partnering with a dedicated Fractional CISO. This approach gives you access to the expertise and strategic direction your business needs without the full-time commitment of hiring an in-house CISO.

For instance, a Fractional CISO can help you map the threat landscape and identify potential risks specific to your company. Together, you can develop a short-term plan that includes a clear, long-term vision. This allows you to implement meaningful controls and frameworks over time, ensuring your security posture evolves as your business grows—all while keeping upfront costs manageable.

To get started:

  1. Engage a Fractional CISO to perform a risk assessment tailored to your business.
  2. Build a roadmap that addresses your immediate needs while planning for scalable, long-term security solutions.
  3. Gradually implement frameworks and controls that align with your growth goals.

Managing IT risk doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking proactive steps and collaborating with an expert, you can secure your business, protect your customers, and build a foundation for sustained success.

If you’re ready to take the next step, let’s connect and start the conversation!