CISO Accreditation Board

Join the professional body of accredited CISOs for building a stronger Future of Cyber Profession

Introduction

In an era where digital threats are constantly evolving and becoming increasingly sophisticated, the role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has never been more critical. As the guardians of organizational cybersecurity, CISOs are responsible for safeguarding sensitive information, ensuring compliance with regulations, and maintaining the integrity and availability of critical systems. 

Given the high stakes involved, it is essential to establish a standardized and rigorous process for accrediting CISOs to ensure they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and leadership capabilities to effectively manage and lead cybersecurity programs.

 Objectives:

• Standardization of Competencies
• Assurance of Expertise
• Enhancement of Professional Development
• Improved Organizational Security Posture
• Regulatory and Compliance Requirements
• Professional Credibility and Recognition
• Professional Liability Protection
• Global Benchmarking
• Attracting and Retaining Talent
• Mitigating Cyber Risks

CISO Professional Accreditation Process

• Application and Approval
  • Application Submission: Candidates submit detailed applications and portfolios highlighting their experience and achievements.
  • Initial Evaluation: The Application Review Committee scores the portfolios (up to 50 points).
  • Approval: Candidates scoring sufficiently are approved to proceed.
  • Application Fee: $200 (non-refundable).
• Panel Formation
  • Accreditor Appointment: The CISO Professional Accreditation Board appoints three independent panelists.
  • Industry Panelists Selection: Candidates select two industry panelists.
• Preparation
  • Preparation Period: Candidates prepare presentations and gather supporting materials.
  • Evaluation Fee: $1,000 (non-refundable).
• Presentations and Interviews
  • Day 1: Strategic Leadership: Present strategic vision and governance plans.
  • Day 2: Operational Excellence: Discuss operational strategies and incident response.
  • Day 3: Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate technical skills and knowledge.
  • Day 4: Program Evaluation and Improvement: Outline methods for program evaluation and continuous improvement.
  • Accreditation Fee: $1,300 (non-refundable).
• Evaluation
  • Scoring: Each panelist scores presentations and interviews (up to 50 points).
  • Total Score: Combined portfolio and interview scores (maximum of 100 points).
  • Passing Criteria: Candidates must score 70 points or above to pass.
• Results and Feedback
  • Notification: Candidates are informed of their results.
  • Feedback: Detailed feedback provided to all candidates.
• Follow-Up
  • Continuous Professional Development: Encouraged for all accredited CISOs.
  • Re-Accreditation: Required after a defined period (e.g., five years).
  • Specialization: Accredited CISOs can pursue further specialization areas.

This structured process ensures that all accredited CISOs are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles, maintaining high standards of cybersecurity leadership.

Candidate Types

• Current CISOs: Validating existing expertise.
•  Accredited CISOs: Seeking further specialization.
• Aspiring CISOs: Professionals ready for their first CISO role, with demonstrable experience and competence.

Fee Structure Summary

• Application Fee: $200
• Evaluation Fee: $1,000
• Accreditation Fee: $1,300
• Total Accreditation Fee: $2,500

Discounts

• Initial Cohort Discount: 20% discount for candidates signing up within the first 90 days.
• CFF Member Discount: 20% discount for members of the Cybersecurity Foundation Forum (CFF).

Discounted Fees

• Total Fee with 20% Discount: $2,000 (open for all until September 11, 2024)

If you have any queries or require further information, please contact CFF Programs at: cffprograms@cyberfuturefoundation.org.

Best regards,

CFF Programs Team