In an era where cyber threats are evolving at an unprecedented pace, the role of a Group Privacy & Information Security Officer (GPI&SO) has become more critical than ever. Businesses are no longer just focused on securing IT infrastructure; they must now integrate security across all aspects of their operations while ensuring compliance with a rapidly shifting regulatory landscape. With the emergence of AI-driven threats, increasing regulatory pressures, and the challenge of balancing innovation with risk, organizations require a comprehensive security strategy that goes beyond conventional defenses.
For Hexagon, a fast-growing company operating across multiple industries, safeguarding critical data and ensuring compliance is a top priority. The company’s centralised security model ensures robust security measures while enabling seamless global operations. The adoption of AI, machine learning, and proactive security frameworks has become essential in tackling emerging threats. Cybersecurity involves more than just technology; it also encompasses culture, awareness, and strategic leadership.
Steve Lorimer, Group Privacy & Information Security Officer at Hexagon, shares his insights on the changing role of cybersecurity in today’s digital-first world. He emphasizes the need to cultivate a security-first mindset within organizations and the importance of utilizing AI for threat detection and response. His approach underscores the significance of proactive risk management, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering a security-focused business culture.
The Role of a Group Privacy & Information Security Officer is Constantly Evolving
The responsibilities of a Group Privacy & Information Security Officer have expanded significantly in response to growing cybersecurity challenges. Traditional IT security—focusing on network, system, and perimeter defense—is no longer sufficient. A modern security leader must oversee information classification, incident response, compliance management, and security awareness initiatives, ensuring that critical data is protected from internal and external threats.
Given the dynamic regulatory environment, staying ahead of evolving threats is crucial. Organizations must prepare for new risks while aligning security strategies with business objectives. Security is now a strategic function, requiring cross-departmental collaboration to protect data, ensure compliance, and support innovation.
Balancing Security and Innovation
In today’s digital landscape, security and innovation must go hand in hand. Organizations cannot afford to treat security as an afterthought, nor can they allow it to hinder technological advancements. The key lies in implementing security controls that enable innovation rather than obstruct it.
Security leaders must understand the business landscape and ensure that security frameworks support growth rather than create barriers. By embedding security into product development, IT infrastructure, and operational workflows, companies can foster innovation while maintaining a strong security posture.
Navigating Regulatory Compliance Across Jurisdictions
Global regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and emerging frameworks such as NIS2 and CRA present significant challenges for multinational organizations. Hexagon, a company with operations spanning multiple industries and regions, has adopted a centralized security model to ensure consistent compliance and risk management across all jurisdictions.
By standardizing security technologies and frameworks, Hexagon has been able to streamline compliance efforts while maintaining operational efficiency. This shift has enhanced security resilience, ensuring that regulatory requirements do not become obstacles to business success.
Building a Security-First Culture
Cybersecurity is not just a technical challenge; it is a cultural imperative. A security-driven culture begins at the leadership level, where executives must recognize the importance of proactive risk management.
At Hexagon, a strong leadership commitment has enabled effective security transformation. Regular engagement with executive teams ensures that security remains a priority across all departments. Furthermore, security awareness training programs encourage employees to take an active role in protecting company assets.
By incorporating secure-by-design and privacy-by-design principles, Hexagon ensures that security is integrated into every product and process. Employee engagement in security initiatives is critical to building a resilient organization.
Addressing Human Error in Cybersecurity
Despite advancements in security technology, human error remains one of the biggest security vulnerabilities. Mistakes such as clicking on malicious links, misconfiguring access controls, or unintentionally exposing sensitive data can lead to serious security breaches.
To mitigate these risks, organizations must focus on two core strategies: education and technology. Hexagon employs real-world security simulations, phishing drills, and contextual training programs to enhance employee awareness. Additionally, AI-powered security solutions help prevent human errors by automating threat detection and response.
A proactive security culture, combined with cutting-edge technology, can significantly reduce the impact of human error on cybersecurity.
Emerging Cybersecurity Threats and Proactive Defense Strategies
As cyber threats become more sophisticated, organizations must adopt a proactive security approach. Cybercriminals increasingly use AI to automate attacks, create deepfake scams, and bypass traditional security measures.
AI-driven security solutions are leveraged at Hexagon to detect and counter evolving threats. Machine learning models analyze behavioral patterns to differentiate between legitimate user activity and potential threats. Additionally, AI-based fraud detection tools help prevent social engineering attacks and deepfake scams.
By investing in next-generation security technologies, Hexagon ensures that its cyber defense strategies remain ahead of emerging threats.
Ensuring Ethical AI and Data Privacy
The rise of AI and big data analytics presents new challenges in data privacy and ethical security practices. Organizations must prioritize transparency, accountability, and security when handling sensitive data.
Hexagon follows a data governance framework that ensures compliance with privacy regulations and ethical AI standards. Transparent data policies, user consent mechanisms, and secure data processing practices are essential in maintaining trust and regulatory compliance.
As AI continues to transform cybersecurity, organizations must remain vigilant in balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations.
In today’s digital-first world, the role of a Group Privacy & Information Security Officer is more strategic than ever. With AI-driven threats, regulatory complexities, and the growing need for a security-first culture, organizations must adopt a proactive and holistic approach to cybersecurity.
Hexagon’s centralized security model, AI-powered defense strategies, and commitment to security awareness exemplify how enterprises can navigate today’s cybersecurity challenges. By prioritizing regulatory compliance, risk management, and continuous innovation, organizations can strengthen their security posture while driving business growth.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses must stay ahead by embracing a culture of security, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and ensuring that privacy remains a fundamental part of their operations.
