Security Professionals Facing Increased AI Expectations and Stress

Chief Information Officers (CIOs) are benefiting from AI technology but are also experiencing increased stress. Business leaders demand that AI deliver exceptional results within their security teams, adding to the pressures on already understaffed and under-skilled security professionals, as revealed by new research.

A joint report from IDC and Expereo shows that 60% of CIOs feel that incorporating AI into their security strategy has enhanced their personal reputation. However, 47% believe that their boards have unrealistic expectations of AI capabilities. Additionally, 39% of the respondents mentioned that as their profile rose, their job stress increased as well.

Businesses are contemplating the introduction of a 'Chief AI Officer' (CAIO) to oversee AI technologies and the opportunities they offer. However, 40% of those surveyed believe that the responsibilities of a CAIO could gradually merge with those of a CIO within the next two years. Furthermore, 38% fear that AI could replace their role or their team’s roles, and 46% think jobs outside the IT sector are also at risk due to automation.

According to Expereo CEO Ben Elms, "Technology leaders are pivotal in driving innovation and transformation but must also endure significant challenges and pressures from their business and board." Therefore, it is crucial for CIOs to align with their CEOs, ensuring they receive the necessary support from stakeholders, team members, and external partners to navigate a complex yet thrilling tech landscape.

Despite the pressures, the potential for positive developments with AI remains significant, as business leaders retain an optimistic outlook on technological advancements. Indeed, 68% of business heads stated that now is the most exciting time to be in their roles, with 71% believing that their current tech strategy will facilitate growth and enhance efficiency.

AI's benefits, however, are coupled with expanded responsibilities for technology leaders. They are now expected to manage digital transformations and explore avenues for generating digital revenues to justify any budget increases. The report indicates that currently, only 7% of respondents need to justify ROI on budget increases, but this figure is anticipated to climb to 12% within the next two years.

Earlier, SSP wrote that OPPO unveiled ColorOS 15 with AI features on October 17.