re:invent security is a podcast where we, on a monthly basis, learn from industry leaders how they reinvented security and how you can turn their experiences into action. Join us as we chat with inspiring information security professionals, dissecting the field of information security and its developments. Because when an episode ends, the real question begins: 'What will you do differently tomorrow?' Let's reinvent our field, one strategy at a time.
re:invent security is hosted by Jeroen Prinse and Irfaan Santoe.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
re:invent security is a podcast where we, on a monthly basis, learn from industry leaders how they reinvented security and how you can turn their experiences into action. Join us as we chat with inspiring information security professionals, dissecting the field of information security and its developments. Because when an episode ends, the real question begins: 'What will you do differently tomorrow?' Let's reinvent our field, one strategy at a time.
re:invent security is hosted by Jeroen Prinse and Irfaan Santoe.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join hosts Jeroen Prinse and Irfaan Santoe in this episode of re:invent security as they sit down with Esther Schagen-van Luit to explore what it truly means to be a Strategic CISO in today’s security landscape.
Esther is a well-known cybersecurity leader and advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. With years of experience advising and working alongside CISOs across various sectors, she brings a sharp, candid perspective on the disconnect between tactical security operations and the strategic needs of modern organizations.
In this episode, Esther unpacks:
• The common traps that keep CISOs stuck in operational mode
• What separates a strategic CISO from the rest—mindset, skillset, and influence
• How organizational readiness (or lack thereof) impacts a CISO’s ability to lead at the strategic level
• Why aligning security with digital transformation is non-negotiable
• And how DEI plays a real role in shaping stronger, smarter security leadership
Esther doesn’t just talk about the role of the CISO—she challenges the assumptions around it. She shares what it takes to grow into strategic leadership, even in environments that aren’t quite ready for it, and why security professionals must be ready to challenge how value is measured and communicated.
Known for her clear thinking and no-nonsense delivery, Esther reminds us that strategy isn’t about sitting at the executive table—it’s about speaking the language of the business and helping shape its future.
Whether you’re a current CISO, an aspiring one, or someone who works closely with security leadership, this episode offers a grounded, honest look at the evolution of the role—and how to push it forward.
Chapters:
00:00 - 04:09 - Introduction of the episode and Esther Schagen van Luit
4:10 - 07:32 Reinventing security and being a driving force for good.
07:33 - 9:32 What are the key differences between an operational, tactical and strategical CISO?
09:33 - 12:15 What are operational and tactical CISO's lacking?
12:16 - 14:20 Strategic security visions requires curiosity
14:21 - 15:56 What is holding organizations back to embrace a strategical CISO?
15:57 - 19:33 - What are the most important skills to become a strategical security leader?
19:34 - 22:07 Example of a security leader who was successfull in aligning business objectives and security strategy
22:08 - 25:00 Don't sell winter coats in the summer
25:01 - 26:42 The difference between regulated and unregulated organizations
26:43 - 33:21 What are the tell tale signs that an organizations is not ready for a strategical CISO?
33:22 - 42:00 What are some practical/high impact steps to create high performing security teams?
42:01 - 43:00 What is the one piece of advise you would like to give security leaders?
43:01 - 46:28 What resources does Esther recommend to level up strategic thinking?
46:29 - 52:21 Key take aways Irfaan and Jeroen
Resources:
Connect with Esther: https://www.linkedin.com/in/estherschagenvanluit/
Subscribe to this channel to find all new episodes:
https://youtube.com/@reinventsecurity?feature=shared
Listen on:
Spotify: https://ap.lc/SzTrY
Apple Podcasts: https://ap.lc/HmXhf
FOLLOW ►
Jeroen Prinse
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jprinse/
Irfaan Santoe:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irfaansantoe/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
