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Analyzing Digital Leadership Positions to Address Their Role in Audits and
Remediation
Marian Chukwudi Odum
MBA, Nexford University
MHY 6750: Module 2 - Assignment
Prof. Nicholas Bucciarelli
July 7th, 2023
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INTERNAL MEMO
To: The Management of Guinness Nigeria Plc
From: Information Officer
Date: 9th July 2023
Subject: Recommendations for Strengthening Data Security and Cybersecurity Governance at
Guinness Nigeria Plc.
I am writing to provide recommendations for positions/roles that would need to be added to the
organization in order to strengthen data security and the role of governance in developing and
maintaining strong cybersecurity practices. As a renowned organization in the beverage industry,
Guinness has a significant digital presence and must prioritize the protection of sensitive information,
customer data, and intellectual property. By establishing the following positions, Guinness can enhance
its cybersecurity strategies, ensure compliance with regulations, and effectively address emerging
threats.
1.) Chief Information Security Officer (CISO):
The role of a Chief Information Security Officer is crucial in today's digital landscape. The CISO
would be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy,
overseeing security operations, and ensuring the organization's infrastructure, applications, and data
are adequately protected. The CISO will also establish incident response plans and coordinate with
internal teams and external partners to mitigate security breaches effectively across all Guinness
locations.
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2.) Chief Privacy Officer (CPO):
New rules and regulations for IT security and privacy are a common occurrence and given the
increasing importance of data privacy and compliance regulations, Guinness would greatly
benefit from appointing a Chief Privacy Officer. (Kerner, 2018). This role would be responsible
for ensuring compliance with privacy laws and regulations, such as GDPR and CCPA. The CPO
would develop and enforce privacy policies, conduct privacy impact assessments, and provide
guidance on data handling practices, thereby fostering trust with customers, and minimizing legal
and reputational risks.
3.) Chief Data Officer (CDO):
The CDO is a senior executive who bears responsibility for the firm's enterprise-wide data and
information strategy, governance, control, policy development, and effective exploitation.
(McCall, 2015).To effectively manage and leverage the vast amount of data Guinness collects, a
Chief Data Officer would be instrumental. The CDO would establish data governance
frameworks, ensuring the quality, integrity, and availability of data across the organization. They
would also identify opportunities for data-driven decision-making, establish data analytics
strategies, and oversee data privacy and protection measures.
4.) Chief Digital Officer (CDO):
In today's digital age, it is crucial for organizations to have a dedicated executive responsible for
driving digital transformation. The Chief Digital Officer would lead the organization's digital
strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives. They would oversee the development and
implementation of digital initiatives, such as e-commerce platforms and customer engagement
tools, while also ensuring that cybersecurity measures are integrated into these digital endeavors.
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By adding these positions to the organizational structure, Guinness will significantly enhance its data
security and cybersecurity governance. Each position plays a unique role in addressing the challenges of
the digital landscape and promoting a culture of proactive cybersecurity practices. These additional roles
will enable Guinness to:
1.) Strengthen Data Security:
Network security audits are important because they help you identify your biggest security risks so
you can make changes that will protect your company from those risks. (Dosal, 2018). With a dedicated
Chief Information Security Officer, the organization can develop robust security strategies, monitor
threats, and proactively respond to security incidents. The CISO will collaborate with other executives,
IT teams, and external partners to identify vulnerabilities, implement security controls, and establish a
culture of security awareness and training.
2.) Enhance Governance and Compliance:
The Chief Privacy Officer will ensure Guinness's compliance with relevant privacy regulations and
implement privacy-by-design principles across the organization. This role will establish processes for
data subject requests, conduct privacy impact assessments, and provide guidance on data sharing,
thereby strengthening data governance and compliance practices.
3.) Optimize Data Management:
A Chief Data Officer will establish data governance frameworks, ensuring data quality, integrity, and
accessibility. By leveraging data analytics and business intelligence, the CDO will help identify valuable
insights, support data-driven decision-making, and drive innovation. Furthermore, the CDO will
collaborate with the CISO and CPO to ensure data protection measures are in place throughout the data
lifecycle.
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4.) Drive Digital Transformation:
Digitization has leveled up the competition across industries and with every passing day it is
becoming more and more important to invest in transitioning businesses into the digital space. (Johnson,
2023). The Chief Digital Officer will spearhead digital initiatives, driving innovation, and enabling
Guinness to remain competitive in the digital landscape. This role will ensure that cybersecurity
considerations are integrated into digital strategies, safeguarding customer data, and protecting the
organization from cyber threats.
In conclusion, the addition of the Chief Information Security Officer, Chief Privacy Officer, Chief Data
Officer, and Chief Digital Officer positions to Guinness's organizational structure will significantly
strengthen data security and cybersecurity governance. These roles will enhance the organization's
ability to protect sensitive information, comply with regulations, and proactively address emerging cyber
threats. By investing in these positions, Guinness Nigeria will safeguard its reputation, instill trust
among stakeholders, and ensure its long-term success in the digital era.
Thank you for considering these recommendations. If you have any further questions or require
additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
References
Dosal, E. (2018). How a Network Security Audit works and why it’s important.
https://www.compuquip.com/blog/network-security-audit-works
Johnson, C. (2023). Chief Digital Officers: Catalysts of Transformation and business triumph. Insights
Edge. https://etinsights.et-edge.com/the-pivotal-role-of-chief-digital-officers-in-driving-
technological-transformation-and-business-success/
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Kerner, M.S (2018). How to Improve Governance, Risk, and Compliance.
https://www.esecurityplanet.com/compliance/how-to-improve-governance-risk-and-compliance/
McCall, T. (2015). Understanding the Chief Data Officer Role. Gartner.com
https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/understanding-the-chief-data-officer-role
