Navigating the Uncharted Waters of Cybersecurity Management

Embarking on a new professional journey can be both exciting and daunting, especially when responsibilities fall outside of your expertise. Recently, I found myself stepping into a new role that I had anticipated would involve “helping with computer-related tasks.” However, to my surprise, I have been placed in charge of cybersecurity for the organization.

With minimal protocols in place and no previous employee dedicated to this area, I am now faced with the daunting task of managing cybersecurity without any formal training, certifications, or significant experience in the field. While the organization isn’t currently under intense scrutiny, it aims to enhance its visibility and prepare for increased attention in the near future. To that end, we plan to hire a security consultant eventually, but I want to ensure we are adequately prepared before bringing in an expert.

Given this situation, I find myself wondering: where should I begin? What foundational steps can I take to lay the groundwork for a robust cybersecurity framework?

Fortunately, the response from colleagues and the broader community has been overwhelmingly supportive, and it gives me hope that I can tackle this challenge effectively. Thank you to everyone who has shared advice and resources to help me navigate this unfamiliar terrain.

In this blog, I will document my journey in establishing cybersecurity protocols and ask for your insights along the way. By collaborating with fellow professionals, I hope to turn this daunting responsibility into a valuable learning experience for myself and my company. Let’s dive into this fascinating realm of cybersecurity together!