Understanding Cybersecurity Roles in an SME: Who Does What?

As digital threats evolve, understanding cybersecurity roles in an SME becomes critical. Many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) assume they’re too small to be targeted—but cybercriminals often see them as easy prey. With limited resources, clearly defined small business cybersecurity responsibilities help SMEs protect sensitive data, stay compliant, and avoid costly disruptions.

Why SMEs Need Defined Cybersecurity Roles

Unlike large corporations, SMEs may not have the budget for a full IT security team. However, this doesn’t eliminate the need for key cybersecurity roles. Instead, individuals in SMEs often wear multiple hats. Establishing roles—no matter how lean your team—is the first step toward accountability and preparedness.

Key Cybersecurity Roles in an SME

Here are some essential roles even the smallest business should consider assigning:

1. Cybersecurity Lead or IT Manager

This person oversees the company’s overall cybersecurity strategy. They ensure security tools are up to date and policies are enforced.

2. Compliance and Risk Officer

Often a shared role, this individual ensures the business complies with regulations like GDPR or the NIS2 Directive. They assess risks and suggest mitigations.

3. Security Awareness Champion

Someone responsible for training staff on phishing, password safety, and social engineering. Awareness is a powerful and affordable defense.

4. Incident Response Coordinator

In the event of a breach, this role activates the response plan, communicates with stakeholders, and manages recovery.

Building a Culture of Security

Small business cybersecurity isn’t just about tools—it’s about people. Whether outsourced or internal, having the right cybersecurity roles in an SME makes a measurable difference in your overall risk posture.

To dive deeper into how small businesses can assign roles effectively, check out this SME cybersecurity role guide from ENISA.

Cyber Governance for SMEs: Navigating European Laws and Compliance in 2025

In an increasingly connected world, cyber governance for SMEs has shifted from being a best practice to a business necessity. For small and medium-sized enterprises across Europe, keeping up with cybersecurity regulations isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about safeguarding customer trust, maintaining operational continuity, and staying competitive.

Yet many business owners still find the evolving landscape of SME cybersecurity compliance overwhelming. New laws and updates to existing regulations continue to roll out across the EU, each with its own expectations, timelines, and penalties. This post breaks down the latest developments and explains what they mean for your business in clear, simple terms.

Why Cyber Governance Matters to SMEs

Many SME owners assume cyber regulations are aimed at larger corporations—but this is no longer the case. European regulators are increasingly holding businesses of all sizes accountable for how they manage, protect, and respond to cyber threats. SMEs are often targeted by cybercriminals precisely because they’re perceived as easier to exploit.

Without a structured approach to governance, SMEs risk data breaches, service interruptions, and damage to their reputation. Implementing solid cyber governance not only reduces these risks but also prepares your business to respond effectively when incidents occur.

Key European Regulations SMEs Must Know

1. NIS2 Directive (Network and Information Security Directive 2)

The NIS2 Directive is one of the most significant updates in European cybersecurity law. Enforced from October 2024, it broadens the scope of the original NIS Directive and brings many medium-sized businesses under its obligations.

NIS2 requires affected organizations to adopt risk management practices, incident response procedures, and supply chain security controls. Even if your business isn’t directly named in the directive, you may still need to comply if you provide services to those that are. Read the full directive here.

2. Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA)

DORA became law in January 2023 and will be fully enforceable by January 2025. While focused on financial institutions, it also affects ICT service providers—including many SMEs—who must demonstrate operational resilience and the ability to recover from cyber incidents.

If your business supports banks, insurance companies, or other regulated entities, you may need to show how you manage digital risks. More on DORA here.

3. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

GDPR is still one of the most impactful data protection laws worldwide. SMEs that handle or process personal data of EU citizens—whether for marketing, sales, or customer support—must remain compliant.

Key requirements include data minimization, transparency, and breach notification. GDPR also mandates having a lawful basis for collecting and using customer data. Learn more about GDPR.

Taking the First Steps Toward Compliance

So, what does all this mean for your business?

Start with a basic cybersecurity risk assessment. Identify what data you hold, where it’s stored, and how it’s protected. From there, work toward establishing key policies: access control, password management, data backup, incident response, and employee awareness training.

The goal of cyber governance for SMEs is not to make your life harder—it’s to build resilience and trust. A strong governance framework helps you respond quickly to threats and gives regulators and clients confidence in your operations.

If you’re unsure where to begin, consider consulting a cybersecurity professional who understands the specific needs of smaller businesses. Compliance isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing effort. By embedding good practices early, you avoid costly mistakes later.

Final Thoughts: Future-Proofing Your Business

The digital economy isn’t slowing down, and neither are cyber threats. SME cybersecurity compliance is now part of doing business responsibly and professionally. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, investing in cyber governance today protects your future tomorrow.

Don’t wait for a breach or a fine to take action—make cybersecurity part of your business culture now.