Cybersecurity: the role of leadership and strategic insights

Strategic Insights on Cyber Risks

Cyber threats are a critical business concern that requires direct involvement from top leadership. On November 6, Wes and Northwave Cybersecurity hosted an exclusive event for company executives, board members, and business owners, aiming to strengthen their understanding of how leadership can support a company’s resilience against cyber risks.

The evening’s discussions centered on integrating cybersecurity into corporate governance and leadership. Jeanette Lesslie Wikström, CEO of SäkerhetsBranschen, moderated a panel featuring Regina Sipos, board professional and Chair of, among other organisations, Frilans Finans; Carolina Engström Lökken, CEO of Wes; and Kim Elman, Northwave Cybersecurity’s Country Manager.

Ownership and Board Responsibilities

Regina Sipos highlighted the essential role of ownership in cybersecurity, emphasizing that company owners should establish clear expectations and demand ongoing cybersecurity efforts from the board and leadership.

— “It’s essential for company owners to set clear expectations for cybersecurity and establish a well-defined risk management strategy. By demanding regular reporting and outlining a clear agenda on various risk issues, owners can ensure that cybersecurity remains a central part of the dialogue with the board and CEO,” said Regina.

Carolina Engström Lökken, CEO of Wes, discussed the board’s evolving role and the skills needed to handle today’s cyber challenges, noting the importance of courage and curiosity among board members.

— “In today’s landscape, it’s not enough to have technical knowledge; board members need the openness to question, learn, and adapt. Courage and curiosity are essential to navigating the challenges ahead,” she noted.

Kim Elman, Country Manager Sweden at Northwave Cybersecurity, shared a business-focused perspective on cybersecurity's strategic role, highlighting how evolving regulations like the NIS2 directive are prompting companies to raise their security standards – a shift he sees as a growth opportunity rather than a burden.

— “Cybersecurity can be a business enabler, boosting both strategy and competitive advantage. While many view it as a cost, it can actually serve as a powerful competitive asset,” Kim noted.

He went on to point out the essential role of cybersecurity in achieving business goals:

— “It’s not just about risk management. Cybersecurity builds trust and strengthens business resilience, reinforcing relationships with customers and partners,” Kim explained.

Insights and Audience Engagement

Jeanette, Carolina, Regina, and Kim then discussed how companies could prepare for the cyber threats of tomorrow.

— "It’s easy to think you have everything under control, but an external review often reveals hidden risks," Regina advised, recommending that boards periodically assess their competencies with the help of external experts to avoid overlooking critical security issues.

During the Q&A with the audience, Kim offered practical advice for companies of all sizes:

— “Transparency in handling cyber incidents is crucial – not just for technical reasons, but for establishing trust. Even small businesses can start with a simple risk analysis to protect core processes. It’s an effective first step regardless of company size,” he suggested.

An Evening of Insights and Strategic Exchange 

The event, organized by Wes and Northwave Cybersecurity, provided a valuable opportunity to highlight the importance of cybersecurity at the leadership level.

— "Our hope was to foster a deeper understanding and encourage active engagement from boards, owners, and executives in addressing cybersecurity," said Marcela Mieres Eneroth, Senior Consultant at Wes.

— "The evening was both insightful and rewarding, with a dynamic exchange between an experienced panel and an engaged audience, creating meaningful discussions on the vital role of cybersecurity at the highest levels of business," added Lena Gatenborg Mohn, Senior Consultant at Wes.

 

 

 

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