What does an information security consultant do?
Or should we say IT security consultant? Information security coordinator? Some even call it “the one who always says no to fun apps.” It goes by many names – but one thing is for sure: The role reaches into almost every corner of the business.
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Gry Josefine Løvgren is a content specialist at Wired Relations, where she writes about all things GRC, data protection, and cybersecurity for our blog and social media channels. She holds a journalism degree from Roskilde University and uses her professional expertise to communicate complex topics in an engaging and easy-to-understand way.
Read more from the authorA broad role with more people than machines
Many probably imagine the job is mainly about technology, firewalls, and dimly lit server rooms. But in reality, it’s just as much about people, processes, and good communication. An information security consultant is a kind of project manager with cybersecurity at the core – someone who facilitates projects and processes across different disciplines to ensure the organisation’s data and systems are protected from every angle.
A job with standards (literally)
A significant part of the work is based on recognised standards – such as ISO 27001 – and is typically implemented via an ISMS (Information Security Management System). The goal is to structure and document security work in a way that is both effective and auditable.
Risk management and dialogue with leadership
Risk management is a central task. The information security consultant assesses potential threats and helps the organisation prioritise resources and mitigate risks. Here, it’s crucial to stay in close dialogue with leadership about the threat landscape and necessary measures – especially in organisations subject to NIS2.
Communication is key
When technical complexity needs to be explained to colleagues outside the IT department, or when tasks need to be delegated to staff in other departments, it requires a special ability to make it understandable. Information security isn’t just about systems – it’s also about people and behavior. That’s why good communication and knowledge-sharing are essential, particularly because the consultant is also responsible for raising security awareness throughout the organisation.
Policies, procedures, and the ISMS
A large part of the job involves creating and maintaining policies, guidelines, and risk assessments. Everything must be kept up to date and integrated into the ISMS. The information security consultant also calls meetings and facilitates the central security committee.
Focus on the supply chain and collaboration
In a world with increasing reliance on suppliers and digital services, the information security consultant is also responsible for monitoring the supply chain. Who has access to what? And how do we ensure they meet our security requirements?
Governance, risk, and compliance in practice
Finally, the information security consultant works closely with other teams – such as legal, IT, and HR – to ensure compliance with laws, standards, and internal requirements. All with one purpose: to minimise security risks and make the organisation more resilient.
In short: An information security consultant is not (only) an IT nerd with a 24-character password. They are an organisational octopus, working with strategy, structure, and people – and making sure information security actually works in practice.
Also read: How to build a culture that supports information security and data protection
💥 Sick of managing security alone?
You don’t have to carry the burden of information security on your own. Discover how others have broken down silos and created a culture where the entire organisation takes responsibility — and where GRC actively supports the business.
