Bridging the Gap: Translating Board-Level Governance into Day-to-Day Cyber Controls
Introduction
A growing e-commerce company had invested in a comprehensive cyber governance strategy. Leadership had set ambitious goals, but employees struggled to implement controls in day-to-day operations.
The Challenge
Board-level objectives were clear on paper, but there was a disconnect at operational level. Staff did not know how to follow complex policies regarding sensitive data, devices, and email usage.
The Approach
The company introduced practical measures to bridge this gap:
- Translating governance policies into clear, step-by-step guides for staff.
- Using real-life scenarios, such as updating client records or handling a suspicious email, to illustrate controls.
- Assigning departmental champions to provide ongoing support and monitor adherence.
Results
Staff reported a higher understanding of cyber responsibilities. Phishing simulations showed a 60% reduction in risky behaviour, and compliance with device and data handling policies improved. Leadership could track progress through simple dashboards aligned with board objectives.
Key Takeaways
- Governance is only effective if it is actionable for frontline staff.
- Real-life examples and scenario-based guides improve understanding.
- Assigning accountability at departmental levels ensures sustainability.
Conclusion
Turning strategic cyber objectives into operational practice strengthens security and compliance. Support from solutions like RockSec360 can help organisations document procedures, track compliance, and provide visibility for leadership without adding unnecessary complexity.

