In this episode of "Unspoken Security" - a turbo-charged special recorded live at the RSA Conference last week - host AJ Nash and guest Kayla Williams of DEVO dive into the evolving role of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in today’s fast-paced cybersecurity landscape. Kayla, a seasoned CISO with a non-traditional background in governance, risk, and compliance (GRC), shares insights into the unique advantages and challenges of her career path. Her expertise in translating security into business terms fosters strong collaborations and aids in securing budgets—essential for driving security initiatives forward.

Kayla emphasizes the strategic importance of aligning security objectives with business goals, highlighting how security is not just a cost center but a growth driver in modern enterprises. Her approach underscores the necessity of communication skills and business acumen for CISOs, which are often overshadowed by the technical aspects of the role.

The conversation also touches on the interpersonal skills crucial for leading security teams, such as emotional intelligence and the ability to manage stress and team dynamics effectively. Kayla’s journey illustrates the broader impacts of security leadership, from fostering trust among customers to navigating the complexities of corporate governance and compliance. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the broader implications of cybersecurity leadership and its integration with business strategies.

And, as usual, this episode ends with our guest telling us something that has so far gone unspoken...and Kayla overachieved by sharing two very interesting stories that I'm certain you'll want to hear.