Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical concern—it is a business-critical function that demands strong leadership at the board level. However, despite the increasing number of highly qualified women in cybersecurity, female executives remain underrepresented in board and advisory roles across both startups and established businesses.
While women make up about 24% of the global cybersecurity workforce, their representation in leadership roles—including CISO, board director, and advisory board member—is significantly lower. According to a 2023 (ISC)² study, only 17% of CISOs globally are women. This leadership gap is not due to a lack of talent but rather a lack of access and opportunity.
Why Boards Need More Women in Cybersecurity
Organizations that prioritize diversity at the executive level outperform their peers in profitability, innovation, and risk management. Studies by McKinsey & Company and Deloitte have consistently shown that companies with diverse leadership teams:
✅ Perform 25% better financially than those with less diversity
✅ Make stronger, data-driven decisions due to a wider range of perspectives
✅ Are better prepared for cyber risks and compliance challenges
Cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and boards are recognizing that cybersecurity expertise is now a board-level issue. Female leaders bring critical insights in risk management, governance, and compliance, yet they are often overlooked when board seats are filled.
The Inequality of Female Representation in Cybersecurity Events
Beyond boardrooms, the gender gap is also visible on stage at major cybersecurity conferences. In Israel and abroad, women are underrepresented as speakers, panelists, and keynote presenters at leading industry events.
For example, at Cybertech Tel Aviv, RSA Conference, and Black Hat, women make up only 10-15% of featured speakers. This not only limits female visibility and influence in the field but also reinforces the notion that cybersecurity leadership is a male-dominated space.
When women are not seen as experts, they are less likely to be considered for executive roles, advisory positions, and board memberships. Increasing female speaker representation at cybersecurity events is one of the first steps toward breaking these barriers.
How to Increase Female Representation in Cybersecurity Leadership
To close the gender gap in cybersecurity governance, we must take active steps:
❏ Companies should prioritize diversity in board and advisory roles – When appointing CISOs, CTOs, and board members, businesses must actively consider qualified female candidates.
❏ Female professionals need access to matchmaking opportunities – More structured pathways should exist for connecting women in cybersecurity with leadership roles.
❏ Event organizers must prioritize female representation – Encouraging more women to participate as speakers, mentors, and panelists will help reshape industry perceptions.
❏ Networking and mentorship must be strengthened – Women in cybersecurity need access to stronger networks that support their leadership growth.
A Call to Action: Women Belong in Cybersecurity Boardrooms
The cybersecurity industry thrives on innovation, strategic leadership, and diverse perspectives. Female executives should not just be included—they should be leading the conversation.
If you are a woman in cybersecurity looking for board or advisory opportunities, or if your organization is seeking diverse leadership, let’s connect. The future of cybersecurity leadership must be inclusive, and now is the time to act.