CISO Burnout Statistics: Why CISOs Leave & Turnover Rates

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A recent analysis highlights the growing challenges faced by chief information security officers as they navigate one of the most demanding roles in the technology sector.

Key Findings from the 2026 CISO Report

The 2026 CISO Report, produced in collaboration with Sophos, reveals alarming trends in retention and job satisfaction among security leaders. Industry data indicates that CISOs typically serve shorter terms compared to other C-suite executives, with tenure averaging between 18 and 26 months according to multiple industry assessments.

Short Tenure and Organizational Disruption

This instability contributes to broader disruptions within organizational security frameworks, teams, and risk management strategies. The report underscores the intense pressures driving dissatisfaction.

Workload and Legal Exposure

Nearly 75 percent of security chiefs express a desire to transition to different roles, citing factors such as heightened workloads, legal exposure, and organizational expectations. Surveys conducted by Help Net Security reveal that 99 percent of CISOs regularly work additional hours weekly, with 20 percent logging an extra 25 hours per week.

Stress and Performance Impact

ComputerWeekly notes that stress levels are directly impacting job performance, with a third of CISOs reporting adverse effects on their capabilities. Legal accountability further exacerbates the strain.

Succession and Leadership Continuity

In recent years, several CISOs have faced personal and legal repercussions for breach management and disclosure practices. A Heidrick & Struggles survey found that nearly half of CISOs lack a qualified internal successor, compounding the challenges of leadership continuity.

The findings align with broader concerns about the sustainability of the role, as executives grapple with expanding responsibilities amid evolving cyber threats.

Recommendations and Future Outlook

The report emphasizes the need for systemic changes to address the unique demands of the position. While specific recommendations remain undisclosed, the data underscores the critical importance of supporting CISOs through structured career development, resource allocation, and risk mitigation strategies.

The findings are part of an ongoing effort to better understand and alleviate the pressures shaping the cybersecurity leadership landscape.