Report: 1 in 5 CISOs work more than 25 hours of overtime per week

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One in five CISOs work more than 25 hours overtime per week, according to a new survey from email security firm Tessian. The survey of 600 security managers in the US, UK, Middle East and Africa found that CISOs work significant overtime, resulting in almost two extra days of work per week. The study found that, on average, CISOs work 16.5 hours longer than their contractual weekly hours, an increase of 11 hours from last year.

The survey also revealed that many security managers have adopted an "always-on" way of working. Three-quarters of security managers say they can't always log off from work, while 16% say they can rarely or never log off. Company size also plays an important role in the number of overtime and overtime hours worked.

CISOs in small businesses (10-99 employees) report working an average of 12 hours overtime per week, while those in the same position at a company with more than 1,000 employees report working 19 hours overtime. Company size also contributes to work-life balance. Small business security managers say they have more difficulty creating boundaries between work and private life. Only 20% of CISOs at these companies say they can always disconnect from work, compared to 31% of those at large companies.

While some employees find solace in “silent quitting,” it’s a luxury CISOs and their teams can’t afford. While some overtime or overtime worked may be unavoidable, the consequences of habitual overwork are very real and can lead to stress, fatigue and burnout.

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According to Josh Yavor, CISO at Tessian, security managers need to be all-out in their work for the safety and health of their organizations, but this 'all inclusive' mentality can turn into 'always on' and lead to burnout. It is not sustainable and increases the risks.

As leaders, CISOs need to stand up for themselves and set boundaries. This will not only set an example for your colleagues, but will also prepare their teams for lasting operational success.

Read Tessian's full report.

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