Charles Blauner, a veteran cybersecurity leader with over two decades of experience as a chief information security officer (CISO) at top financial institutions, has shared his insights on what makes a great CISO. As someone who has witnessed the evolution of the CISO role firsthand, Blauner’s thoughts offer valuable lessons for aspiring cybersecurity professionals and executives alike.
Blauner’s career spans some of the most significant milestones in the development of the modern CISO role. He began his journey at Bell Communications Research, where he was part of a team that addressed early hacking threats. In the mid-1990s, he transitioned to banking, eventually becoming the CISO at JPMorgan, Deutsche Bank, and Citigroup over the course of two decades. Today, Blauner serves as an operating partner at Crosspointe Capital.
One of the most striking aspects of Blauner’s career is his connection to Steve Katz, often referred to as “The Godfather” of the CISO role. As one of the pioneers who helped establish the position in 1994, Katz set a crucial precedent for future generations of security leaders. By creating the title and hiring the first person to fill it, Katz paved the way for a new breed of professionals who would prioritize information security as a key business function.
Blauner emphasizes that being a successful CISO is no longer solely about technical expertise. In today’s complex threat landscape, security leaders must also possess strong communication skills, business acumen, and an ability to foster resilience within their organizations. This blend of competencies makes the CISO role one of the most demanding in the C-suite.
In his conversation with Dark Reading’s Kristina Beek, Blauner offers valuable advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. He stresses the importance of building a network of mentors, as opposed to relying solely on one individual. According to Blauner, this approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of the field and helps individuals navigate its complexities.
Furthermore, Blauner believes that AI’s impact on security jobs will be profound. As technology continues to advance, he argues that cybersecurity leaders must not only protect their organizations’ digital assets but also help them build lasting operational resilience. This shift in focus requires a deep understanding of business operations and the ability to identify areas where technological innovation can drive long-term success.
In an era where security threats are increasingly sophisticated and relentless, Blauner’s insights serve as a timely reminder that effective CISOs must be more than just technical experts. They need to possess a unique blend of skills that enable them to navigate the complex intersection of technology, business, and resilience. As aspiring cybersecurity professionals look to build their careers, Blauner’s words offer a valuable guide on how to succeed in this demanding but rewarding field.
In practical terms, for those seeking to follow in Blauner’s footsteps, building a strong network of mentors is key. This approach will provide the necessary support and guidance as you navigate the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. Additionally, cultivating your communication skills and staying abreast of emerging technologies, such as AI, will help you stay ahead of the curve and build lasting operational resilience within your organization.
Source: Dark Reading — 2026-07-28