In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity presents a great opportunity for enterprises to innovate and enhance their business landscape. The 2025 EY Global Cybersecurity Leadership Insights Study stresses upon the key aspects for organizations to transition their cybersecurity strategies from being focussed on asset protection to value generation for business. This shift is crucial, as many Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) struggle with communicating the value of Cybersecurity beyond simple risk management. As per the report about 58% of the CISO’s faced difficulties in conveying this to the management, thereby revealing the disconnect between Cybersecurity programs and business requirements.

AI has emerged as an unstoppable force for Cybersecurity professionals, providing them with capabilities to respond faster, enhance scalability and ability to adapt to the ever evolving threat landscape.

The emergence of agentic AI would further enable organizations to significantly enhance their process and mature their cybersecurity postures. These AI agents can analyse large data sets, identify gaps and initiate pre-defined responses, thereby giving businesses the runway to innovate with agility and confidence while minimizing delays due to Security.

The insights identified from the EY study showcase that the organizations that have robust cybersecurity frameworks aligned with business objectives demonstrated increased customer trust and strengthened market position.

The study also showcased that CISO’s who engaged with business proactively contributed a median value of US$ 36 million for different initiatives. Further, it states that where the organizations utilised AI for Cybersecurity initiatives, they not only showcased significant cost saving but also streamlined operations. The study thus challenges the notion that a Cybersecurity investment is only for compliance purposes, rather it solidifies the belief that it is a strategic agenda which can act as a business enabler.

The role of CISOs in driving innovation

The role of a CISO in an organization is changing, they are no longer considered the custodian of compliances, rather are being looked upon as the pillars of strength within the organization.

Last few years have seen a shift in buying patterns of CISO’s as well, the budgets are being re-allocated to Transformation initiatives that drive and enhance business value, rather than simply compliance related spends.

CISOs are fostering trust among C-suite executives by adopting new age technologies like AI and Agentic AI, As per the study approx. 43% of CISOs are actively engaged in exploring AI applications to yield business benefits.

The usage of AI in cybersecurity spans across multiple dimensions like threat detection, predictive analytics, automated responses, and security orchestration. These capabilities enable the CISO to provide confidence to business which can build and launch new products faster, without worrying about the risks and compliances.

As the technology becomes complex, it brings complex challenges across the value chain and with that the need to upskill personnel can’t be ignored. Organizations should proactively invest in the training their teams to effectively understand and utilize these complex technologies. Upskilling ensures that employees can collaborate with AI tools and take better informed decisions with Human in Loop thereby promoting a This not only enhances the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures but also promotes a culture of continuous learning within the organization.

In conclusion, the integration of AI and cybersecurity is not just another passing movement; it represents a transformative energy capable of reshaping business. By adopting a proactive approach, CISOs can elevate cybersecurity from a perceived expense to a driver of innovation and business growth. This evolution would not only strengthen an organization’s defenses but also reinforces the pivotal role of CISOs in shaping the future trajectory of their enterprises.

The author is Lalit Kalra, Partner Cybersecurity Consulting, EY India

Disclaimer: The views expressed are solely of the author and IT Monteur does not necessarily subscribe to it. IT Monteur shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person/organization directly or indirectly.