The most miserable big-money job in the C-suite

CISOs are burning out — the job’s taken a physical and mental toll (hair loss, panic attacks) and average tenure is just 18–26 months, with many open to leaving.
The role has ballooned from pure tech defense to business diplomat: policing AI/shadow apps, briefing boards and handling compliance — 84% say it should be split into technical and business positions.
As cybercrime and AI risks rise, firms are experimenting with fractional/virtual CISOs and chief trust officers, but shortages and liability concerns leave customers and companies more exposed.