As we step into 2025, the cybersecurity landscape has fundamentally shifted. It’s no longer solely about reactive defence — it’s about proactively creating sustainable value and driving organisational performance.

In my role as a field chief information security officer (CISO) and through ongoing conversations with clients and industry leaders across Latin America and the Caribbean, I’ve identified six critical leadership imperatives that will define success in this evolving security environment:

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1) Transform security into a competitive advantage

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Security should no longer be viewed as a cost centre — it’s a strategic asset. Organisations that invest in robust threat prevention and detection are the ones that will build trust with customers, partners, and stakeholders. This trust drives revenue, strengthens reputation, and builds market confidence. In 2025, cybersecurity is not just about protection; it’s a differentiator and a catalyst for innovation.

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2) Embed risk management into core governance

The days of siloed security are over. Boards and executive teams must adopt a comprehensive view of risk, embedding cybersecurity, and business continuity into every strategic decision. This means ensuring a swift, coordinated response to incidents and weaving security considerations into the very fabric of governance.

3) Invest in zero trust architectures and decentralised models

In today’s hyper-connected environment, implicit trust is vulnerability. As such it is the zero-trust approach, with its continuous validation, that will help to provide unprecedented visibility into vulnerabilities, helping to strengthen the defences of businesses against advanced threats. It’s about building a security posture that adapts to the dynamic nature of modern ecosystems.

4) Leverage artificial intelligence and predictive analytics

The volume of data and complexity of threats demand intelligent solutions. Machine learning algorithms enable real-time detection of suspicious activities and automate incident response. This optimises resources, dramatically reduces detection and containment times, and allows security teams to focus on strategic initiatives.

5) Foster a security-first culture across the organisation

Technology alone isn’t enough and as such the human element remains paramount. As such, it is in building a robust security culture through continuous training, clear communication, employee engagement, and incentivised participation that will empower every employee to become a front-line defender — it’s about cultivating a security mindset that permeates the entire organisation.

6) Build operational resilience through continuity and recovery

Even with the strongest defences, incidents can occur. Planning for recovery is therefore as crucial as preventing attacks. Resilience-building requires robust data backups, well-tested continuity plans, and strategic partnerships. In 2025, resilience is not just a goal; it’s a necessity.

By embracing these six strategies, CEOs, CIOs, and CISOs can truly transform cybersecurity from a technical function into a driver of growth and competitive differentiation. The real question every leader must now ask is: Are we prepared to lead in a future in which cybersecurity is the ultimate competitive advantage?

Jaime Chanaga is field chief information security officer, Fortinet, Latin America and the Caribbean.