The role of the Information Security Officer (ISO) has gained massive importance in recent years. With increasing regulation through GDPR, ISO 27001, NIS2, and industry-specific requirements, organizations face the challenge of competently filling this central position. A fundamental question arises: Should the ISO be hired internally or contracted externally? For many organizations, especially mid-sized companies, the external option offers significant advantages.
What Does an Information Security Officer Do?
The ISO is the central point of contact for all information security matters within an organization. Core responsibilities include developing and maintaining the Information Security Management System (ISMS), conducting risk analyses, creating and updating security policies, coordinating audits and certifications, and raising employee awareness. The ISO serves as the interface between executive management, the IT department, and business units, ensuring that information security is integrated into all business processes.
The Challenge of Internal Staffing
Hiring a qualified ISO internally presents considerable challenges for many organizations. The skills shortage in information security is severe -- experienced ISOs are rare in the job market and command high salaries. The total costs of an internal hire include not only salary but also training costs, conference attendance, certifications, and necessary infrastructure. There is also the risk of organizational blindness: an internal ISO may gradually lose objectivity and develop blind spots.
Seven Compelling Advantages of an External ISO
1. Broad Expertise and Cross-Industry Experience
An external ISO brings experience from a wide variety of organizations and industries. This cross-industry knowledge enables identifying best practices and implementing solutions that have proven effective in practice. They know typical vulnerabilities, common error sources, and effective countermeasures firsthand. This perspective is nearly impossible to build internally within a single organization.
2. Objectivity and Independence
One of the most significant advantages of an external ISO is their independence. They are not embedded in internal hierarchies and politics and can therefore make objective assessments and clearly communicate uncomfortable truths. This neutrality is invaluable, particularly when conducting risk analyses and evaluating security measures.
3. Cost Efficiency
The costs of an external ISO are typically significantly lower than those of an internal full-time position. Organizations pay only for the services actually needed and can flexibly adjust the scope to their requirements. Costs for recruitment, onboarding, continuing education, social contributions, and infrastructure are eliminated. This is an economically sensible solution, especially for mid-sized companies that do not need a full-time ISO.
4. Immediate Availability and Quick Deployment
While finding a qualified internal ISO can take months, an external ISO is typically available at short notice. They bring all necessary qualifications, certifications, and tools and can begin work immediately. This is particularly valuable when regulatory deadlines must be met or a security incident requires a rapid response.
5. Always Up-to-Date Knowledge
The information security landscape changes rapidly. An external ISO continuously invests in their professional development and keeps their certifications current -- and the organization does not bear these costs. They stay current with the latest threats, regulatory changes, and technological developments and can directly incorporate this knowledge into their work.
6. Scalability and Flexibility
The need for information security services is not constant. During phases such as ISO 27001 certification, an audit, or after a security incident, demand increases significantly. An external ISO can flexibly scale their services -- from a few hours per month for ongoing support to intensive full-time assistance during critical phases.
7. Network and Access to Specialists
An external ISO typically has a broad network of specialists they can call upon as needed. Whether penetration testers, data protection officers, forensic analysts, or auditors -- through the external ISO, organizations gain access to a comprehensive competency network that could only be built internally with considerable effort.
Conclusion
The decision between an internal and external ISO depends on the individual requirements of the organization. For many organizations -- especially mid-sized companies -- an external ISO offers the optimal combination of expertise, objectivity, flexibility, and cost efficiency. SecTepe provides experienced, certified Information Security Officers who support your organization reliably and competently. Contact us to learn more about our external ISO services.