Notes from the Boardroom: vol. 8
Editor’s note: “Notes from the Boardroom” is a series of blog posts from ISACA board directors providing transparency, context and perspective on how the ISACA board is carrying out its governance responsibilities. In this installment, new Board Director Jamie Norton, of Australia, shares insight on his first 90 days as part of the ISACA Board.
July 2024 was a time when much of the world was captivated by the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, which began in Paris on 26 July. Having spent nearly half my life chasing the Olympic dream on the track, the Games hold a special place in my heart. While my own Olympic aspirations never came to fruition, I usually dedicate those two weeks to watching the action, almost around the clock. This time, however, things were different. July 2024 marked the start of a new journey for me—joining the ISACA Board.
With nearly 20 years of ISACA membership, during which I volunteered in various capacities across Oceania and contributed to the CISM Working Group, I was no stranger to working with boards. However, stepping into the ISACA Board presented a fresh challenge. ISACA’s extensive global presence, influence and diverse membership base are truly unique, and with the emergence of technologies like AI and the current global economic uncertainty, it is an exciting time to be joining the Board.
A Warm Welcome
From my very first Board meeting, it was clear that the ISACA Board embodies collaboration and engagement, bringing together a diverse mix of expertise and experience. Among the board members are industry leaders in areas such as artificial intelligence and privacy, successful entrepreneurs, former CEOs, specialists in governance and strategy, as well as experts in legal, accounting, and investment fields—not to mention individuals with deep, long-standing connections to ISACA.
Soon after my first Board meeting, I had the opportunity to sit down with ISACA CEO Erik Prusch during his visit to Australia for a conference hosted by the Melbourne Chapter. Erik’s warm welcome was a testament to the robust and respectful relationship he shares with the Board. He mentioned that, in his experience, the ISACA Board invests more time in governance than any other board he’s worked with. This is especially remarkable considering that ISACA’s Board members are all volunteers.
In the months since, I can confidently attest from personal experience that this level of commitment holds true. Beyond the quarterly board meetings, I also serve on the Innovation Committee and the Audit and Risk Committee, each of which meets virtually at least four times annually, often with additional special meetings. Overall, the expectation is around 15 hours a month, and at times it can be more. Fortunately, my career is at a stage where I can fully embrace this level of involvement.
Overcoming Time Zone Challenges
As a global organization with directors spanning the globe, coordinating meeting times is no small feat. Adding to the complexity, meetings usually must align with the working hours of ISACA’s US-based staff. For the Oceania region, situated nearly halfway around the world from ISACA’s office in the Chicago area, this often means participating in meetings during less-than-ideal hours. Most of my calls to date have been scheduled between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Australian time, lasting around three hours. To manage this, I adjust my rest schedule as needed—one of the realities of representing Oceania on a global board.
A Clear Focus
After attending multiple Board meetings and becoming immersed in the challenges and opportunities at hand, several themes stand out from my first 90 days—an experience akin to “drinking from the firehose.”
At the core of all board decisions is a commitment to enhancing member benefits. While ensuring effective oversight and governance remains a priority, the focus is always on improving the membership experience and reinforcing ISACA’s ability to serve and represent its members.
Another key focus is sustainability. In today’s uncertain economic climate, ensuring ISACA’s continued relevance, success and leadership within the industry is essential to its long-term viability.
The Board operates with a matrix of skills and experiences essential for managing a large, multinational organization. My fellow board members are not only highly credentialed and distinguished in their respective fields, but also deeply collaborative and engaged. This dynamic fosters meaningful discussions—sometimes robust, sometimes passionate, yet always honest and respectful.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on my first 90 days, it’s evident that joining the ISACA Board has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my career. I’m eager to continue contributing to an organization that plays a critical role in the global IT governance, audit, risk and cybersecurity landscape. With the dedication of my fellow directors, ISACA’s leadership, staff, and our incredible volunteers and membership across chapters globally, I’m confident we are well-positioned to make a lasting impact.
