We offer fractional CISO services to meet your needs!
Nick Kirtley (LinkedIn) and his team provide fractional CISO services to meet your diverse security needs. This can consist of part-time CISO security services, or solving specific security problems. We’re more than happy to discuss your security needs free of charge. Reach out to us via our contact form at the bottom of the page!
What is a Fractional CISO?
A Fractional CISO (Chief Information Security Officer) is a seasoned security professional who provides part-time or temporary (strategic) leadership for organizations that need expert security guidance but may not require or have the budget for a full-time executive. This modern approach to security leadership allows companies to access top-tier security expertise while maintaining cost efficiency.
Unlike a full-time CISO, a Fractional CISO works with multiple organizations, bringing diverse experience and cross-industry insights to each engagement. They typically work on a flexible schedule, whether that’s a few days per week or month, depending on the organization’s needs and maturity level.
Core fractional CISO responsibilities:
- Developing and implementing comprehensive security strategies
- Establishing security governance frameworks
- Managing security budgets and resource allocation
- Overseeing compliance initiatives and audit preparations
- Leading security incident response planning
- Advising board members and executive leadership on security matters
Why Choose a Fractional CISO?
The decision to engage a Fractional CISO often stems from a combination of strategic needs and practical considerations. Here’s a detailed look at the advantages this model offers:
Cost Effectiveness
A Fractional CISO typically costs 30-40% of a full-time CISO compensation package. This includes:
- No benefits package requirements
- No stock options or equity compensation
- Flexible engagement terms
- Pay only for the time and expertise you need
Diverse Experience
Benefit from broad industry exposure and best practices:
- Cross-industry security insights
- Experience with various security technologies
- Knowledge of different regulatory frameworks
- Exposure to diverse security challenges
When do You Benefit?
Organizations particularly benefit from a Fractional CISO when they:
- Are growing rapidly but aren’t ready for a full-time CISO
- Need to quickly mature their security program
- Are preparing for security audits or compliance certifications
- Want to bridge the gap during a security leadership transition
- Require executive security expertise for specific projects or initiatives
Implementing a Successful Fractional CISO Program
A successful Fractional CISO engagement requires careful planning and clear expectations. Here’s how to maximize the value of this relationship:
| Clear Objectives | Effective Integration |
| Define specific security goals and milestones | Include CISO in executive meetings |
| Establish measurable success criteria | Establish clear reporting relationships |
| Set realistic timelines for initiatives | Define communication protocols |
| Align security objectives with business goals | Ensure access to necessary resources |
Typical Engagement Models
Fractional CISO services can be structured in several ways to meet your organization’s needs:
Retainer-Based
- Set monthly hours
- Regular weekly/monthly schedule
- Predictable budget
- Ongoing strategic guidance
Project-Based
- Specific deliverables
- Fixed timeline
- Defined scope
- Clear milestones
Advisory-Based
- On-call expertise
- Board presentations
- Strategy reviews
- Crisis support
Addressing Common Security Challenges
Navigate complex regulatory landscapes:
- SOC 2 Compliance
- HIPAA Requirements
- PCI DSS Standards
- GDPR and Privacy Regulations
- Industry-Specific Requirements
Build comprehensive security foundations:
- Security Policy Framework
- Risk Assessment Programs
- Incident Response Planning
- Security Awareness Training
- Vendor Risk Management