The Cybersecurity Spiral of Failure (and How to Break Out of It) - by Jean-Christophe Gaillard (Paperback)

About the Book

A must-read for top executives seeking to break patterns of frustration and breach around cybersecurity and a precious management summary to the "Cybersecurity Leadership Handbook for the CISO and the CEO"

Book Synopsis

Through in-depth analysis of issues like technical focus, quick fixes, succession of leaders, and distrust between stakeholders, 'The Cybersecurity Spiral of Failure' unravels why cybersecurity practices in large firms have stagnated for 20 years despite massive investments. Jean-Christophe Gaillard, an experienced strategic advisor and global cybersecurity thought leader, contends that problems stem not from lack of money or awareness, but from cultural acceptance of short-term thinking and treating security as an add-on rather than a priority. Using real-world examples, 'The Cybersecurity Spiral of Failure' shows how crises prompt knee-jerk decisions that undermine long-term success. It argues the solution lies not in new products but in examining past failures, gaining stakeholder buy-in, and executing cohesive plans over the mid to long-term. Security leaders will find practical guidance on assembling empowered teams, articulating visions, and maintaining momentum even when priorities shift. For top executives seeking to break patterns of frustration and breach, this book offers a blueprint for establishing a governance model that protects the organization for years to come.

Review Quotes

I blinked when JC Gaillard reminded us that the role of CISO was initiated in the late 90s. We must not stand still. Cyber evolves and so must we. The 'Cybersecurity Spiral of Failure' openly explores and challenges leadership, management and governance matters to address the real dynamics of security transformation. This is a must read for anyone looking to turn their cyber practice around.

Avril Chester Award-winning Technology Entrepreneur & CTO

JC deconstructs with great accuracy how corporate short-termism and an excessive focus on purely technical approaches have failed to deliver adequate protection from cyber threats; an original and genuine book that takes a step back from the traditional tech clichés on the topic and truly puts things in perspective around cybersecurity.

Nick Evans Founder, Thinkers360

A refreshing outlook on the cybersecurity corporate landscape from a really independent and authentic voice in the industry. In 'The Cybersecurity Spiral of Failure', JC Gaillard truly reaches beyond the technology horizon into the dynamics of execution and transformation in large organizations. A must-read for the C suite.

Henk van der Heijden Former Global Head of Portfolio Security Services, Getronics

JC and I have worked together for many years and his vision around what is going wrong in the cybersecurity industry is spot on; we have been looking at it from a purely technical perspective for over two decades while this is in fact about people and process first; anybody interested in getting a grip on their cybersecurity challenges must read this.

Jeremy Hill Former Head of Identity & Access Management, Euroclear, Refinitiv, Lloyds Banking Group

'The Cybersecurity Spiral of Failure' is a refreshing take on cybersecurity. JC breaks down the flaws in traditional approaches, urging a shift from technology-first to governance and culture. The book addresses boardroom mistakes, the skills gap, and highlights the need for a new CISO profile with a focus on leadership and innovation. JC's insights on automation, budgets, and a lasting transformation provide practical advice. In a nutshell, it's a must-read for a practical, strategic approach to cybersecurity challenges.

Natasha McCabe Global Head of Corporate Technology, Schroders

JC provides a comprehensive view of the challenges faced in the cybersecurity domain and thoughtfully suggests a way forward. It is a must-read for anyone vested in this crucial aspect of business in our digital world. He delves deep into the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape, tracing its evolution over two decades. With a compelling narrative, JC emphasises the paradox of short-term fixes and the box-ticking culture among executives, which has been fuelling the short tenure of CISOs. Many, he argues, have remained technologists and firefighters, disconnected from the board's increasing focus on resilience and execution. JC's central thesis is the need for trust between CISOs and senior executives, and he makes a strong case for operational successes to foster trust and commitment from top management. Overall, a great read.

Tony Moroney Top 10 Digital Disruption & Top 25 Digital Transformation by Thinkers 360 (@BetaMoroney)