As AI Accelerates Change Across Enterprises, Security Teams Must Adapt or Risk Being Left Behind
In a rapidly shifting landscape where artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming businesses from the ground up, cybersecurity leaders like James Shira are sounding the alarm about the need for security teams to rethink their approach to risk and adapt their strategies. As the global CISO and CIO of professional services firm PwC, Shira has spent over two decades navigating the evolution of cybersecurity, and he’s adamant that the pace of change is only going to accelerate.
Shira’s own path into the industry was far from linear. Originally considering a career in law, he eventually pivoted towards business and information systems after realizing he couldn’t afford law school. This unconventional background has given him a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed in cybersecurity – and he emphasizes that it’s not just about technical expertise. “Successful leadership comes down to more than technical knowledge,” he says. “It involves building trust, communicating complex issues clearly, and creating an environment where employees can develop.”
For Shira, the key to effective security teams is diversity of experience and perspective. He values self-confidence and individual point of view, as these traits foster mutual learning and intense debates that ultimately lead to better decision-making. As a result, he’s created an inclusive culture at PwC that encourages collaboration and open discussion.
However, with AI driving rapid change across enterprises, Shira warns that the attack surface is expanding at an alarming rate. This means security teams are under increasing pressure to keep pace – but it also presents opportunities for professionals looking to break into the field. “AI technology will add new challenges, but it will also open up new roles and areas of specialization,” he notes.
Looking ahead, Shira predicts significant societal and industry change on a scale that will become the new standard. To stay ahead of the curve, security teams must adapt quickly – and that means embracing innovation, investing in talent, and developing strategies that account for the ever-shifting landscape.
So what can we learn from Shira’s experience? For one, it’s clear that cybersecurity is no longer just a technical function – it requires leaders who can communicate complex issues clearly, build trust with stakeholders, and create an environment of continuous learning. As AI accelerates change across enterprises, security teams must be prepared to adapt or risk being left behind. By prioritizing diversity, innovation, and talent development, we can stay ahead of the curve and ensure that our organizations remain secure in a rapidly changing world.
In practical terms, this means that businesses should prioritize investing in cybersecurity talent, developing strategies that account for AI-driven change, and staying agile in the face of emerging threats. By doing so, they’ll be well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI – and emerge stronger as a result.
Source: Dark Reading — 2026-11-09