2025 Global Chief Information Security Officer Compensation Survey

The 2025 Global Chief Information Security Officer Compensation Survey is a comprehensive report that examines compensation trends for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and similar roles. Conducted by Heidrick & Struggles, this survey captures data from 371 CISOs worldwide, focusing on their compensation, organizational roles, and reporting structures. The report reveals that 42% of respondents now report directly to the CEO, a significant increase from previous years, indicating a shift in the strategic importance of cybersecurity within organizations. Additionally, the survey highlights a growing emphasis on artificial intelligence, with 57% of CISOs identifying it as a key area of expertise. The report details compensation statistics, noting an average total compensation of $1,447,000 for CISOs in the United States, alongside variations across industries and company ownership structures. The findings underscore the evolving role of CISOs as they navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and organizational risk management.