Hiring Guide

When Does a Business Need a CISO? The 6 Triggers

Most SMEs don’t need a full-time CISO, but they do need CISO-level accountability. Here are the six moments when you can’t avoid it any longer.

Book a Conversation

Where Businesses Get Stuck

The challenges we most commonly see when organisations come to us:

You’ve been asked about your security posture by a client, investor, or insurer.
A breach would be catastrophic.
GDPR is a liability.
You have nobody accountable.

Our Methodology

The CISO Trigger Framework: six business events that make CISO-level accountability non-negotiable.

What Starkhorn Brings

Daniel Jacobs: 20+ years in technology and security, 15+ of them in leadership roles. VetPartners (BC Partners, GBP1.2bn), Jardine Motors Group (GBP2bn). Published author. PRINCE2, ITIL, IIM Full Member.

Starkhorn does not subcontract or use associate networks. You work directly with Daniel Jacobs from the first conversation through to delivery.

Who This Is For

This service is designed for:

CEOs at regulated
PE-backed
or fast-scaling businesses

This is not the right fit for: Early-stage businesses without meaningful data or regulatory exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can Starkhorn begin?

In most cases we can begin within five to ten working days. For urgent situations such as a sudden leadership gap or an active incident, we can mobilise faster. Contact us to discuss your timeline.

What does a typical Starkhorn engagement cost?

Engagements are structured as monthly retainers or fixed-term day-rate assignments. The cost depends on scope and time commitment. We are transparent about pricing from the first conversation and will give you a clear indication on the call.

What experience does Starkhorn bring?

Starkhorn is led by Daniel Jacobs, with 20+ years in technology and security, 15+ of them in leadership roles. He has served as CIO, CISO, and interim technology director for organisations including VetPartners (BC Partners-backed, GBP1.2bn) and Jardine Motors Group (GBP2bn turnover). He holds PRINCE2, ITIL Foundation, and is a Full Member of the Institute of Interim Management.

Does Starkhorn work with businesses outside London?

Yes. We work with clients nationally and, for some engagements, internationally. Much of our advisory work is delivered remotely, with on-site presence when needed. Location has not been a barrier for any of our clients.

What is the first step to working with Starkhorn?

Book a no-obligation conversation using the link on this page. In 30 minutes we will understand your situation, tell you honestly whether we are the right fit, and outline what a first engagement would look like. There is no sales process and no pressure.

Next step

Ready to Talk?

Starkhorn works with MDs, CEOs, and boards of growing businesses. If you have a technology leadership gap, a security concern, or a transformation that is not delivering, we can help. Book a 30-minute conversation with no obligation.