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Anand Rao Nednur and Sohit Raina

Welcome to "Mastering Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): A Handbook." This comprehensive course is designed for professionals looking to enhance their understanding of Cybersecurity Governance, Risk, and Compliance in today’s complex and rapidly changing business landscape.

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Welcome to "Mastering Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): A Handbook." This comprehensive course is designed for professionals looking to enhance their understanding of Cybersecurity Governance, Risk, and Compliance in today’s complex and rapidly changing business landscape.

In this course, you will explore the essential components of GRC, including the principles of governance, the art of Risk Analysis, techniques of risk assessment, and the Three Lines of Defense model in Risk Management. You will learn how to implement effective GRC frameworks that align with organizational goals and mitigate potential risks, ensuring sustainable and responsible business practices.

Through engaging lessons, real-world case studies, and practical exercises, you will develop the skills needed to assess and manage risks effectively, create robust compliance programs, and foster a culture of accountability within your organization. You will also gain insights into the latest trends and best practices in GRC, preparing you to navigate the challenges that modern organizations face.

Whether you’re an aspiring GRC professional, a business manager, an Information Security leader, a hands-on technology specialist, a business consultant, or simply a beginner, this course will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to excel in your respective role and drive organizational success. You will also gain the confidence to engage with stakeholders on various GRC subject matters and contribute to strategic decision-making processes.  This course will teach you an approach in Risk Management, that allows you to be looked upon as a Trusted Advisor for cyber risks by the business and executive leadership of your organization.

Join us and take the first step toward mastering GRC. By the end of this course, you’ll be prepared to tackle real-world challenges and enhance your career prospects in the ever-evolving field of Governance, Risk, and Compliance, ultimately setting yourself apart in the competitive job market. This course is not just an academic exercise; it is a practical guide and a curated handbook, to building your expertise in GRC and applying it effectively within your organization.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Gain a solid understanding of cybersecurity governance, risk, and compliance (grc) principles, and their implication in an organization.
  • Develop a laser sharp clarity on the three lines of defense model in cybersecurity risk management practice.
  • Acquire skills to identify, assess, and mitigate information security risks to protect organizational assets with a business savvy approach.
  • Appreciate innovative oversight mechanisms for reporting organizational health in cybersecurity to executive leadership and drive continuous improvement.

Syllabus

Introduction
01 - GRC Essentials - A Risk Manager’s playbook to IT Security Governance, Risk
02 - Course Objectives
03 - Course Audience
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04 - Before we take off - Some Ground Rules
05 - Fair Disclaimer
06 - Some 'Not So Fun' Facts about Cybersecurity
Module 1 - What is Governance Risk and Compliance - Quite Literally
07 - Why This Module ?
08 - What is Governance - Part 1
09 - What is Governance - Part 2
10 - What is Risk ?
11 - What is Compliance ?
12 - Risk Analyst and Risk Manager
13 - Quick Exercise
13.a - Extension Fun Fact
Module 2 - The three lines of Defense
14 History and Relevance
15 First Line (Part 1)
16 First Line (Part 2)
17 Second Line
18 Third Line
19 How does this help ?
20 Things to unlearn - One Size Fits All
Module 3-Step 1 Information Gathering-Understand the organisation risk universe
21 Recap & Back to problem statement-edited
22 Map your Information Security risk universe for ABC Inc
23 Infrastructure - Compute & Workstation
24 Business Applications
25 Third Parties
26 End Users
27 Physical Perimeter
28 Revenue Stream - Client Services and Products
29 Outcome
30 Things to Unlearn - Start with Risks and not Controls
Module 4 - Step 2: Drafting inherent risks
31 What is Inherent Risk
32 How to identify Inherent Risks
33 Time for templates!
34 Drafting Inherent Risks - Infrastructure - Compute - Part 1
35 Drafting Inherent Risks - Infrastructure - Compute - Part 2
36 Drafting Inherent Risks - Infrastructure - Workstations
37 Drafting Inherent Risks - Business Applications - Part 1
38 Drafting Inherent Risks - Business Applications - Part 2
39 Drafting Inherent Risks - Third Parties
40 Drafting Inherent Risks - End Users
41 Drafting Inherent Risks - Physical Perimeter
42 Drafting Inherent Risks - Revenue Stream Client Service or Products
43 A quick pressure test with ISO 27001
Module 5 - Step 3: Mapping the Lines of Defense - Roles and Responsibilities
44 Mapping the First Line - Part 1
45 Mapping the First Line - Part 2
46 Mapping the Second Line
47 Mapping the Third Line
Module 6 - Step 4: Existing Controls Environment
48 A Much Needed Recap
49 Existing Policies, Mitigations and Controls - Part 1
50 Existing Policies, Mitigations and Controls – Part 2
51 Key points to identify existing mitigations
Module 7 - Step 5: Residual Risk
52 What is Residual Risk
53 Things to Unlearn - There is no -- No Risk
Module 8 - Follow Through
54 Remediation & Oversight
55 Management Reporting - Strategic vs Operational
Module 9 - Bringing it all together
56 End to End Framework
Module 10 - GRC Tools
57 GRC Tools
58 GRC Tools Demo
Module 11 - IT Auditing: The Third Line of Defense
59 What is an Audit ?
60 Internal Audits
61 External Audits - Regulatory Certifications Attestations
Module 12 - Course Conclusion
62 Checking in on our course objectives
63 Go Risk Analysts & Managers!

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a practical guide and curated handbook to building expertise in GRC, which helps learners apply their knowledge effectively within their organization
Explores the Three Lines of Defense model, which is a cornerstone of modern risk management and crucial for establishing clear roles and responsibilities
Teaches techniques of risk assessment, which are essential for identifying vulnerabilities and developing strategies to protect organizational assets
Includes real-world case studies and practical exercises, which allows learners to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios and challenges
Examines innovative oversight mechanisms for reporting organizational health in cybersecurity, which helps drive continuous improvement and strategic decision-making
Includes a module on GRC tools, which may require learners to acquire a subscription or license in order to fully utilize the software

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Mastering Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): A Handbook with these activities:
Review 'Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance: It Can't Happen to Us' by Richard M. Steinberg
Familiarize yourself with fundamental GRC concepts and frameworks before starting the course.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read the introductory chapters to understand the core concepts.
  • Focus on chapters related to risk management and compliance frameworks.
Review IT Security Fundamentals
Strengthen your understanding of IT security fundamentals to better grasp the GRC concepts discussed in the course.
Browse courses on Cybersecurity Principles
Show steps
  • Review basic networking concepts.
  • Study common security threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Familiarize yourself with security controls and best practices.
Develop a GRC Framework Proposal for a Hypothetical Organization
Apply the concepts learned in the course by designing a GRC framework tailored to a specific organizational context.
Show steps
  • Define the organization's mission, vision, and values.
  • Identify key stakeholders and their roles in GRC.
  • Develop a risk management plan.
  • Outline compliance requirements and procedures.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Presentation on the Three Lines of Defense Model
Solidify your understanding of the Three Lines of Defense model by creating a presentation that explains its principles and application.
Show steps
  • Research the history and evolution of the model.
  • Explain the roles and responsibilities of each line of defense.
  • Provide real-world examples of the model in action.
  • Design visually appealing slides.
Review 'ISO 27001:2013 in Plain English' by Alan Calder
Gain a deeper understanding of ISO 27001 and its relevance to GRC.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read the chapters covering the key requirements of ISO 27001.
  • Identify how ISO 27001 aligns with GRC principles.
Develop a Risk Assessment Template
Create a practical tool for assessing and managing risks within an organization, reinforcing your understanding of risk assessment methodologies.
Show steps
  • Research different risk assessment methodologies.
  • Design a template that captures key risk information.
  • Incorporate risk scoring and prioritization mechanisms.
  • Test the template with sample scenarios.
Mentor junior colleagues on GRC principles
Reinforce your understanding of GRC by explaining the concepts to others.
Show steps
  • Identify junior colleagues who are interested in learning about GRC.
  • Schedule regular mentoring sessions.
  • Prepare materials to explain GRC concepts.
  • Answer questions and provide guidance.

Career center

Learners who complete Mastering Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): A Handbook will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Risk Manager
A Risk Manager develops and implements risk management strategies to protect the organization from potential threats. This course is highly relevant to a Risk Manager, as it covers the fundamental principles of GRC, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies. The course's comprehensive approach, from identifying risks to implementing controls and reporting, will prepare the Risk Manager to tackle real world challenges. The course also teaches the Risk Manager how to be a trusted advisor to executive leadership.
Risk Analyst
A Risk Analyst identifies and assesses potential risks to an organization, developing strategies to mitigate these threats. This course directly aligns with the role, providing a deep dive into risk analysis techniques and the three lines of defense model. You will learn to map an organization's risk universe, draft inherent risks, and assess existing controls, skills directly applicable to daily tasks of a Risk Analyst. The course provides a framework for managing risk effectively, which would allow a Risk Analyst to be successful.
Compliance Officer
A Compliance Officer develops and manages compliance programs, ensuring that an organization adheres to regulations and standards. This course helps build a foundation for the role by exploring key components of governance, risk, and compliance. The course emphasizes the implementation of GRC frameworks, which is directly applicable to the Compliance Officer. The detailed approach to assessing risks and establishing compliance measures will be something the Compliance Officer relies upon to perform their tasks.
Compliance Analyst
A Compliance Analyst assists in the development and implementation of compliance programs and monitors adherence to regulations. This course provides a solid understanding of compliance principles within the framework of governance and risk management. The course will help the Compliance Analyst better understand the role of the lines of defense. Learning about how to create robust compliance programs helps a Compliance Analyst in their day to day tasks.
IT Security Auditor
An IT Security Auditor assesses the security of an organization's information technology systems and processes, identifying vulnerabilities and recommending improvements. This course covers essential topics such as cybersecurity governance, risk assessment, and the three lines of defense model, things an IT Security Auditor will need to be successful. Additionally, the course discusses IT Auditing quite a bit, which will be useful for this career role. The course's lessons around risk management are also valuable for the IT Security Auditor.
Information Security Manager
An Information Security Manager oversees the protection of an organization's information assets by developing and implementing security policies and procedures. This course helps you to understand the principles of cybersecurity governance, risk, and compliance, which an Information Security Manager needs to be successful. By mastering the three lines of defense model and learning how to identify and mitigate risks, a future Information Security Manager will be well-prepared to manage the IT risk universe.
Governance Analyst
A Governance Analyst supports the development and implementation of governance frameworks, ensuring they align with organizational objectives. This course provides an in depth look at governance principles and the importance of risk management, both of which are necessary to be an effective Governance Analyst. Learning to manage risk and assess controls will give you tools that will help you perform essential tasks as a Governance Analyst. The course will also be helpful to understand the importance of each line of defense.
Cybersecurity Consultant
A Cybersecurity Consultant provides expert advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their security posture and mitigate cyber threats. This course may be useful, as it covers essential topics like cybersecurity governance, risk assessment, and compliance which are all things a Cybersecurity Consultant needs to know. Additionally the course emphasizes aligning GRC with business goals which is key to success for a consultant. The course provides the tools necessary to manage risk and present this information to leadership.
Internal Auditor
An Internal Auditor evaluates the effectiveness of an organization's internal controls and governance processes. This course may be useful because it covers how to identify and assess risks, understand the three lines of defense, and follow through with oversight and reporting. The course dives into the IT audit process, which will be valuable for an Internal Auditor. The course's emphasis on various risk domains also will help the Internal Auditor be able to have a more complete picture of the risk universe.
Data Privacy Analyst
A Data Privacy Analyst works to ensure that an organization's data handling practices comply with privacy regulations. This course may be useful to a Data Privacy Analyst, because it provides a good understanding of the risk and compliance landscapes, which is necessary to understand data privacy. By developing skills in risk assessment and compliance program development you will be able to better navigate the data privacy space. This course will help the Data Privacy Analyst work to build data governance programs.
Chief Risk Officer
A Chief Risk Officer is responsible for overseeing an organization's risk management program. This course can help build a foundation by introducing GRC principles, risk analysis, and mitigation strategies. The course's focus on effective GRC frameworks and risk management strategies provide a practical guide to an aspiring Chief Risk Officer. By taking this course, they will be able to better understand how to assess risk and develop a plan for the organization.
Business Continuity Planner
A Business Continuity Planner develops and implements plans to ensure an organization can continue operations during disruptions. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of risk management and the IT landscape. This is relevant to business continuity, as it helps you understand the risks that might impact ongoing business operations. The course's focus on identifying risks and creating mitigation strategies may be helpful for someone interested in business continuity.
IT Project Manager
An IT Project Manager plans, executes, and closes IT projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget. This course may be useful for an IT Project Manager, because it provides context for implementing security policies, which may be part of the projects they manage. By learning about the importance of risk management, a project manager will be able to manage the risk of projects that they lead. This course may also help an IT Project Manager better understand the security needs of various projects.
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst identifies business needs and recommends solutions, which improve the overall performance of an organization. This course may be useful to a Business Analyst because it covers several security concepts and the IT landscape. This allows the Business Analyst to communicate effectively with IT teams. The course helps to provide a framework for assessing risk, which is often required to analyze the impact of business decisions.
Security Awareness Trainer
A Security Awareness Trainer develops and delivers training programs to educate employees about security risks and best practices. This course may be a jumping off point, as the course is able to provide context about the importance of GRC. The course also discusses real risks that organizations can encounter, which can serve as examples for the trainer. The course also helps one understand a culture of accountability, which is directly tied to security awareness.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Mastering Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): A Handbook.
Provides a comprehensive overview of GRC principles and practices. It offers practical guidance on implementing GRC frameworks within organizations. It is particularly useful for understanding the interconnectedness of governance, risk management, and compliance functions. This book can serve as a valuable reference for professionals seeking to enhance their GRC knowledge and skills.
Provides a clear and concise explanation of the ISO 27001 standard for information security management systems. It is helpful for understanding the requirements and implementation of an ISMS. It can be used as a reference for aligning GRC practices with international standards. This book is valuable for professionals seeking to implement or audit ISO 27001 compliant systems.

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