The success of the Chief Information Security Officer is MOST dependent upon:

 Importance of Executive Relationships:

Enables collaboration and alignment with business goals.

Secures funding and organizational support for security initiatives.

Positions the CISO as a strategic partner in decision-making.

 Why This is Most Dependent:

Building strong relationships ensures the CISO can influence and lead effectively across the organization.

 Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Favorable audit findings: Reflect success but don’t drive it.

B. Recommendations from consultants/contractors: Supplement internal strategies but aren’t critical.

D. Raising awareness among end-users: Necessary but secondary to executive alignment.

 References:

EC-Council underscores the CISO’s need to cultivate relationships with key executives to ensure success and strategic impact.