Security is no longer just about guards and gates—it’s digital, physical, and constantly evolving. Pamela Larson talks about the biggest changes she’s seen, and what leaders need to do to stay resilient.
1. What do you see as the biggest security challenges organizations face today?
Security threats have grown more complex, requiring organizations to protect both physical and digital assets. The rise of cyberattacks, supply chain vulnerabilities, and insider threats means security leaders can no longer rely on traditional methods alone. Organizations must take a holistic approach to security—integrating cybersecurity, physical security, and crisis management into one cohesive strategy. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that security remains proactive rather than reactive. According to IBM’s 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average data breach costs companies $4.45 million globally, underscoring the need for organizations to anticipate and mitigate risks before they escalate. Companies that fail to anticipate threats may find themselves scrambling when an incident occurs, rather than having a well-prepared plan in place.
2. How has the role of security leaders changed in recent years?
Security leaders are no longer just focused on risk mitigation—they play a critical role in business strategy. Security has become a board-level priority, and executives expect security teams to provide insights that align with broader business objectives. Today, security leaders must be fluent in technology, data analytics, regulatory compliance, and crisis management. They must also be effective communicators, bridging the gap between security teams and other business units. A recent Deloitte survey found that 82% of executives believe cybersecurity is directly tied to business success. Our job is not just to protect assets but to enable the organization to operate safely and efficiently, even in times of disruption, while ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory requirements like GDPR and the SEC’s cybersecurity disclosure rules.
3. What role does technology play in strengthening security resilience?
Technology has transformed how organizations approach security. AI-driven threat intelligence, real-time monitoring systems, and automation tools now allow organizations to detect and respond to threats faster than ever. For example, predictive analytics can help organizations identify patterns that signal potential cyberattacks before they occur. Additionally, the integration of IoT and smart security systems enhances physical security by providing real-time data on facility access, asset tracking, and personnel safety. However, technology alone isn’t enough—organizations need skilled teams and strong leadership to implement these tools effectively. According to Gartner, by 2026, AI-driven security solutions will reduce the average time to detect and contain cyber threats by 50%, making it a crucial investment for organizations aiming to stay ahead of evolving threats.
4. How can organizations build a security-first culture?
Security is not just an IT or security department concern—it’s a shared responsibility across the entire organization. The best way to build a security-first culture is through continuous education and clear communication. Employees should understand the importance of security and how their actions contribute to overall safety. Regular training on cybersecurity threats, phishing awareness, and physical security best practices can help employees become proactive participants in security resilience. Additionally, leadership must set the tone by prioritizing security in decision-making and resource allocation. Studies by the Ponemon Institute show that companies with regular cybersecurity training experience 30% fewer security incidents, reinforcing the importance of an informed and engaged workforce.
5. What is the role of collaboration in security resilience?
Security cannot be managed in isolation. It requires collaboration across departments—HR, IT, legal, operations—to ensure that security policies and procedures are effective. External collaboration is also crucial. Partnering with government agencies, industry groups, and security networks provides organizations with valuable threat intelligence and best practices. For example, by participating in industry-wide information-sharing initiatives such as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) threat intelligence sharing programs, organizations can stay ahead of emerging threats and improve their response strategies. A report from the World Economic Forum emphasized that 85% of cybersecurity professionals believe that cross-sector collaboration is critical to improving overall security resilience.
6. What advice do you have for organizations looking to strengthen their crisis preparedness?
Every organization should have a well-defined crisis management plan that outlines clear roles, communication protocols, and response procedures. Regular simulations and tabletop exercises ensure that teams are prepared to act quickly when a crisis occurs. Organizations should also invest in mass notification systems to keep employees and stakeholders informed during emergencies. The key is to test these plans regularly—an untested plan is no plan at all. Research from Forrester indicates that companies with active crisis management programs recover from incidents 40% faster than those without.
7. How can businesses balance security investments with other priorities?
Security should never be viewed as just a cost center; it’s an investment in operational continuity and brand trust. The best approach is to align security investments with business goals. For example, if a company is expanding its supply chain, investing in third-party risk management tools makes strategic sense. When security leaders can demonstrate how security investments reduce business risks and improve efficiency, securing executive buy-in becomes much easier. According to PwC’s Global Digital Trust Insights Survey, 68% of executives believe that strong cybersecurity programs enhance customer trust, making security investments a competitive differentiator rather than just an operational necessity.
8. What security trends should organizations be preparing for in the coming years?
Security threats are evolving, and organizations must stay ahead of trends like AI-driven cyberattacks, the expansion of zero-trust security frameworks, and the increasing use of biometric security measures. Additionally, as hybrid work models become the norm, organizations must rethink how they secure remote work environments, personal devices, and cloud infrastructure. We’re also seeing a rise in nation-state cyber threats, making it even more important for businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. The IBM X-Force Threat Intelligence Index reported a 200% increase in supply chain attacks in the past year, highlighting the need for organizations to reassess vendor security and third-party risk management.
9. What lessons have you learned from major security incidents?
One of the biggest lessons is that preparation is everything. Organizations that have well-tested incident response plans are always in a better position to recover from security events. Another lesson is the importance of communication—both internally and externally. Employees need clear guidance on how to respond to incidents, and customers need transparent updates to maintain trust. Finally, adaptability is critical. No two incidents are the same, and organizations must be able to pivot quickly as new information emerges. A study by the Ponemon Institute found that organizations with a robust incident response plan save an average of $2.66 million per breach compared to those without one, reinforcing the importance of preparation and adaptability.
10. What final advice would you give to security leaders today?
Security leaders must take a proactive stance—waiting until an incident happens is no longer an option. Investing in people, processes, and technology now will pay dividends when the unexpected occurs. Focus on fostering collaboration, aligning security with business objectives, and staying informed about emerging threats. Most importantly, never underestimate the human factor—people are the first and last line of defense in any security strategy. Continuous learning and adaptability are key; security leaders must remain vigilant and prepared to pivot as the landscape evolves.
Summary
Security resilience comes from preparation and teamwork. Pamela’s insight shows that when leaders break down silos and build trust across their teams, they strengthen their defenses. Take the first step by reviewing your organization’s security strategy today.