Virtual CISO (VCISO) Services for UK Businesses

Strategic cybersecurity leadership, without the overhead. Align risk, compliance, and governance with on-demand CISO expertise tailored to your organisation

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No full-time CISO? No problem. Get expert cyber leadership without the headcount.

Cybersecurity is no longer a standalone function. It's a business-critical priority. However, not every organisation has the resources or requirements for a full-time Chief Information Security Officer. That's where Fifosys’ Virtual CISO (VCISO) service comes in.

Our VCISO offering gives you access to senior-level cyber expertise without the overhead. We help shape and steer your cybersecurity strategy, aligning protection to your business goals, not just your technical setup.

Whether you're working towards compliance, managing third-party risk, or navigating board expectations, we provide the strategic direction and governance needed to stay ahead.

💡 Did you know?

As per the UK Government's 'Cyber security breaches survey 2025', about 43% of UK businesses and 30% of charities reported experiencing a cyber breach or attack in the past 12 months - while just 35% of businesses and 33% of charities say they have a formal cybersecurity policy in place.

The threat landscape is evolving. Compliance pressures are rising. Security leadership is no longer optional.

We help bridge the gap between day-to-day IT operations and executive-level decision-making.

Why Do You Need a VCISO?

Build a roadmap based on real-world risk, not generic templates.
Translate cyber threats into business language for stakeholder reporting.
Meet the requirements of ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials, GDPR, and industry standards.
Know your response plan before a breach occurs. Not after.

💡 Did you know?

Only 20% of UK organisations rate their cyber risk management as “very mature,” and just 29% say their cyber risk programmes are well‑aligned with business goals. On the flip side, 52% struggle to explain cyber threats in business terms.

What Does a VCISO Help You Achieve?

Our VCISO service provides more than consultancy. It brings structure, accountability, and momentum to your security efforts.

Risk-Based Security Strategy: Tailored planning that reflects your business priorities and risk appetite.
Policy & Framework Development: Governance aligned with recognised best practices.
Board-Level Reporting: Regular updates for executive stakeholders, free from technical jargon.
Third-Party Due Diligence: Review and strengthen supply chain and vendor risk management.
Audit & Certification Support: Be audit-ready with documentation, reviews, and action plans.
Quarterly Strategy Reviews: Regular performance check-ins to adapt to changing risks and track progress.

🎯 Misaligned Priorities

Security investment often targets the loudest issues — not the most critical risks to your business.

📉 Compliance Gaps

Missing policies, weak accountability, and limited audit evidence are all too common without leadership.

🧑‍💻 Overloaded IT Teams

Operational IT doesn’t always have the time, capacity, or expertise to lead security transformation.

🏛️ Boardroom Disconnect

Executives need clear, non-technical insights to support informed cyber decision-making.

Without executive-level leadership, security often becomes reactive… or worse: a box-ticking exercise. With a VCISO in your corner, it helps ensure your cybersecurity programme is proactive, business-aligned, and well-governed. Otherwise, you’re opening the door to risks such as:

Why Cybersecurity Leadership Matters

VCISO FAQs

What is a Virtual CISO (VCISO)?

A Virtual CISO (VCISO) is an outsourced cybersecurity leader who provides strategic guidance, risk management, and compliance oversight without the need for a full-time, in-house CISO. It’s a flexible way to access senior cyber expertise on demand.

Who needs a Virtual CISO service?

A VCISO is ideal for scaling businesses, regulated industries, and organisations preparing for audits or certifications like ISO 27001 or Cyber Essentials. If your IT team is stretched or you need strategic cybersecurity leadership without hiring a full-time CISO, this service is for you.

How is a VCISO different from a cybersecurity consultant?

Unlike a traditional consultant, a VCISO acts as part of your leadership team — providing ongoing, hands-on support. They help develop policies, align security with business goals, report to your board, and track strategic progress over time.

Can a VCISO help us achieve compliance?

Yes. Our VCISO service supports compliance with GDPR, ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials, and sector-specific regulations. We help you build the right documentation, processes, and controls — and stay audit-ready.

What does the VCISO service include?

Our VCISO service includes risk assessments, policy development, board reporting, incident readiness, supply chain risk management, and quarterly strategy reviews. It’s a complete leadership solution, tailored to your business.

How do I get started with a VCISO?

Start with a free consultation to assess your current security posture and business needs. From there, we’ll define a tailored scope and roadmap — and begin providing hands-on strategic leadership from day one.