In this third-party risk management (TPRM) guide for CISOs, we break down everything there is to know about TPRM - including why TPRM matters, how to set up and run an effective TPRM programme, what to do in case of a supply chain breach, and how best to automate your TPRM efforts.
60% of organisations have been impacted by a breach in the supply chain, however, setting up a robust third party risk programme can be a time-consuming process. This guide does the heavy lifting for you.
This free guide for CISOs covers everything you need to know about Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM), from understanding the supplier risk management process and building a robust vendor risk management framework to learning how to communicate supply chain security internally. If a breach does occur, we have added an action plan so you can respond quickly and effectively.
What you will learn: What is third party risk management, what motivates threat actors & how this information helps cybersecurity professions
Why it matters:Understanding third-party risk is foundational to protecting an organisation from supply chain threats. With businesses relying more on external vendors, cybercriminals are exploiting these relationships to gain access to sensitive data. Knowing the motivations of threat actors—whether financial gain, espionage, or disruption—allows cybersecurity teams to anticipate attacks and build better defences. Without this knowledge, organisations risk falling victim to data breaches, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties.
What you will learn: how to create your framework, defining roles and responsibilities, establishing procedures, how to prioritise suppliers
Why it matters:A structured approach to TPRM ensures that security efforts are both effective and scalable. Defining clear roles and responsibilities prevents gaps in accountability, while establishing procedures ensures consistency. Prioritising suppliers based on risk exposure helps organisations allocate resources where they are needed most, reducing vulnerabilities in critical areas. Without a framework, companies risk making ad-hoc security decisions that leave them exposed to cyber threats.
What you will learn: building an oversight committee, creating effective processes, challenges and best practices, free reporting template
Why it matters:Even the best security strategies fail without stakeholder support. Gaining buy-in from leadership ensures that TPRM is prioritised and properly funded. An oversight committee keeps the programme on track, while clear processes reduce friction and improve implementation. Challenges such as resistance to change or lack of awareness can derail progress, making it essential to learn best practices. The free reporting template provides a structured way to communicate risk, helping security teams justify investments and demonstrate compliance.
What you will learn: How breaches happen, what should I do if I suspect a breach, what is 4th party risk and how to protect against it
Why it matters: A breach can escalate quickly, and without a clear action plan, organisations risk making costly mistakes. Understanding common attack methods—such as supply chain compromises, credential stuffing, or zero-day exploits—helps teams detect and respond faster. Knowing the right steps to take when a breach is suspected can minimise damage and regulatory fallout. Additionally, fourth-party risk (when your vendors’ suppliers are compromised) is an often-overlooked threat, making it essential to have safeguards in place beyond direct third-party relationships.
What you will learn: the difference between the difference between tools and understanding when to use each
Why it matters: The market is flooded with security tools, but not all are suitable for every organisation. Understanding the differences—such as automated risk assessment platforms, continuous monitoring solutions, and compliance management tools—helps businesses invest in the right technology. Using the wrong tool can lead to inefficiencies, wasted budgets, and blind spots in security. By knowing when and how to use each type, organisations can build a tech stack that strengthens their third-party risk management strategy effectively.
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