Why AI governance is now a CISO imperative

Let’s be real: 2024 is the year AI went from pilot to policy. And in 2025, it’s not slowing down.

Every enterprise I talk to, from high-growth SaaS companies to large-scale global platforms, implements AI internally or embeds it into its products. With that momentum comes a wave of questions: Is this secure? Are we exposing customer data? What will our auditors say?

CISOs are now expected to balance innovation with protection, fostering progress while staying ahead of risk. That’s why we created the CISOs’ Guide to AI Governance – to give structure to this moment.

Why this guide matters

AI governance is no longer a “nice-to-have.” It’s a business enabler.

When done right, governance helps security leaders confidently say “yes” to AI, while reducing legal exposure and building customer trust. It starts with answering fundamental questions:

• Who owns AI decision-making across the org?
• How do we assess the risk of internal and third-party AI tools?
• What frameworks should we align with, such as NIST AI RMF or ISO 42001?

We’ve packaged all of this in the guide, along with real examples of what good looks like.

What AI governance looks like in action

At Cribl, the team knew innovation couldn’t be slowed down. But they also needed a way to evaluate and manage risk across a growing vendor ecosystem. Using TrustCloud, Cribl implemented third-party AI assessments that now serve as a foundation for vendor trust. Their governance doesn’t stand in the way of development—it enables it.

“Innovation can’t be slowed down. It’s imperative to understand how to create the proper AI governance to allow for it.”
– Jon Zayicek, Customer Security Assurance, Cribl

Evisort, a pioneer in responsible AI, used TrustCloud to become one of the world’s first companies to earn ISO 42001 certification. The results?

• Cut their audit preparation time by over 40%
• Expanded their security and GRC program designed for ISO and SOC 2 audits, to cover additional AI controls, policies, and risks
• Streamlined evidence collection and document management using automation
• Used TrustCloud’s trust portal to showcase compliance to customers, build credibility, and accelerate deal cycles

“We knew TrustCloud’s platform would be the best way to achieve ISO 42001 certification.”
– Andrew Josephides, Sr Director of Infrastructure and Security, Evisort

“TrustCloud helped us and our auditors run an efficient, streamlined process from start to finish.”
– Danny Manimbo, Principal, Schellman & Company

IMO Health applied our AI risk assessment tools both internally and with third parties to build a comprehensive view of risk across its healthcare systems. Its governance structure now supports clinical and product teams, helping them move fast but with guardrails.

These aren’t theoretical use cases. They’re blueprints for what’s possible.

My take: CISOs are on the frontlines of AI

The role of the CISO has evolved. CISOs are not just responsible for blocking threats; they are expected to enable growth. But they can’t do that without assurance that their security program is effective in continuously monitoring and mitigating risk. Governance isn’t just about compliance anymore; it’s about allowing innovation safely, responsibly, and repeatedly.

In other words, governance is how we win.

Let’s take this further

Read the complete guide: Guide to AI Governance for CISOs and Security Leaders