In this Brand Story episode, recorded live at the HITRUST Collaborate Conference 2024, host Sean Martin sits down with Monica Shokrai, Head of Risk and Insurance for Google Cloud. The topic of conversation centers around cyber insurance, a crucial area impacting organizations across sectors.

Monica Shokrai leads the charge in managing risk and procuring insurance for Google Cloud, a role that integrates closely with both the finance and security teams. She highlights the unique dual approach of her team, which not only secures coverage for Google but also strategizes on how to leverage insurance to assist Google Cloud customers in mitigating risks.

A key point discussed is the interdisciplinary nature of cyber insurance. Traditionally managed by the finance or legal departments, Shokrai emphasizes its growing collaboration with cybersecurity teams. She notes that the standard organizational structure often sees a communication divide between finance and security departments. However, the evolving cyber insurance market is pushing these groups closer together, fostering a more integrated risk management strategy.

Shokrai also shares insights on how Google approaches risk exposure and posture. By modeling risk in-house and leveraging an actuarial team, Google can quantify risks accurately and work closely with security teams. This model not only helps in securing better insurance terms but also aids in understanding and integrating security measures within the organization.

Another significant point is Google’s innovative approach to automating the cyber insurance process. Through their Risk Protection Program, Google allows security metrics to be shared with insurance partners like Allianz in Munich. This method simplifies the underwriting process and promotes a data-driven approach to evaluating cybersecurity risks, aligning insurers and security teams toward a common goal.

Overall, the discussion underscores the importance of a cohesive strategy that bridges finance and cybersecurity through innovative risk management and insurance practices. With leaders like Monica Shokrai at the helm, Google Cloud is at the forefront of integrating these critical functions, ultimately benefiting both the company and its customers.

Learn more about HITRUST: https://itspm.ag/hitrusi2it

Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.

Guest: Monica Shokrai, Head of Risk and Insurance, Google Cloud [@lifeatgoogle]

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicashokrai/

Resources

Simplified Cyber Insurance for Organizations with a HITRUST Certification: https://itspm.ag/hitrusp5x6

Learn more and catch more stories from HITRUST: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/hitrust

Learn more about 7 Minutes on ITSPmagazine Short Brand Story Podcasts: https://www.itspmagazine.com/purchase-programs

Newsletter Archive: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/tune-into-the-latest-podcasts-7109347022809309184/

Business Newsletter Signup: https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-business-updates-sign-up

Are you interested in telling your story?
https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story