Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) Service Description

Empowering Businesses Cybersecurity Services

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Service overview

The Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) service provides organizations with expert-level cybersecurity leadership on a flexible, cost-effective basis. Designed for organizations that need CISO-level expertise without the overhead of a full-time executive, the vCISO operates as a strategic advisor, helping align security efforts with business objectives, manage cyber risk, ensure compliance, and build a resilient security posture.

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Service Objectives

  • Define and execute a cybersecurity strategy aligned with business goals
  • Establish and improve governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) frameworks
  • Provide expert guidance on security architecture, operations, and incident response
  • Support regulatory and standards compliance (e.g., ISO 27001, NIS2, GDPR, NIST CSF, DORA)
  • Act as a liaison between technical teams and executive leadership

scope of

services

Cybersecurity Governance & Leadership

  • Define cybersecurity strategy and roadmap
  • Establish security roles and responsibilities
  • Present regular briefings to executives and boards
  • Develop and enforce security policies and procedures

Risk Management

  • Conduct cybersecurity risk assessments (asset-based, threat-based, compliance-based)
  • Develop and maintain risk registers
  • Prioritize and track risk remediation actions
  • Oversee third-party risk management programs

Security Program Development

  • Design, implement, and mature cybersecurity programs (identity, network, endpoint, etc.)
  • Align initiatives with NIST CSF, CIS Controls, ISO 27001, and other frameworks
  • Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and risk metrics

Compliance & Regulatory Alignment

  • Support readiness and audits for standards such as:
  1. NIS2 Directive
  2. ISO/IEC 27001
  3. GDPR
  4. DORA
  5. SOC 2
  6. NIST 800-53, 800-171
  • Conduct gap analysis and compliance assessments
  • Develop required documentation (SoA, risk treatment plans, etc.)

Incident Response & Crisis Management

  • Develop and maintain Incident Response Plans (IRP)
  • Coordinate tabletop exercises and simulations
  • Guide executive-level response during real incidents
  • Integrate with MSSPs or internal SOC teams

Security Awareness & Culture

  • Design and deploy employee security awareness programs
  • Advise on phishing simulations, training platforms, and internal communications
  • Promote a culture of security throughout the organization

Security Architecture & Operations (Advisory)

  • Review and advise on secure network, cloud, and application architectures
  • Provide input on technology decisions (e.g., firewalls, EDR/XDR, SIEM)
  • Ensure secure software development practices (DevSecOps advisory)
  • Oversee vendor security evaluations

Board & Executive Reporting

  • Provide monthly/quarterly executive summaries and dashboards
  • Translate technical risks into business impact
  • Support budget planning and ROI assessment for cybersecurity investments

engagement

models

Part-Time Retainer: Flexible hours/month with guaranteed availability. Project-Based: Fixed-scope engagements (e.g., ISO 27001 implementation). Interim CISO: Full-time leadership during transition or recruitment. Hybrid: Mix of remote and onsite presence, if required

example

deliverables

Cybersecurity Strategic Plan

Risk Assessment Report & Risk Register

Compliance Gap Analysis (e.g., NIS2 Readiness Report)

Security Policies & Procedures Set

Incident Response Plan & Playbooks

Monthly/Quarterly Board-Level Cybersecurity Reports

Audit & Compliance Support Packages

Vendor Risk Management Framework

Security Awareness Plan

Why Choose Our vCISO Service?

  • Deep Experience: Certified professionals with CISO-level expertise (CISSP, CISM, ISO 27001 LA, etc.)
  • Regulatory Expertise: Strong track record across EU regulatory frameworks (NIS2, GDPR, DORA)
  • Business-Centric: Security decisions driven by business objectives and risk appetite
  • Cost Efficiency: Access to top-tier talent at a fraction of the cost of a full-time hire
  • Scalable: Support grows with your organizations needs