To fix the communication gap between IT and security teams, I facilitate regular, structured meetings where both teams can align on goals, challenges, and priorities. I encourage open dialogue, emphasizing the shared responsibility of protecting systems and data. By fostering collaboration through cross-functional workshops or joint problem-solving sessions, I help both teams understand each other's perspectives and expertise. I also implement a clear communication framework, ensuring consistent updates and feedback loops. Building mutual respect and trust between teams will improve coordination and enhance overall security.

To ensure alignment between IT and security teams, I schedule regular meetings to discuss ongoing projects, emerging threats, and shared priorities. Setting common goals ensures both teams work towards unified objectives, promoting collaboration and accountability. I also utilize collaborative tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams to streamline communication, share updates in real time, and document important discussions. This keeps everyone on the same page and improves responsiveness to potential security risks.

Establish Regular Meetings: Schedule regular joint meetings between IT and security teams to discuss ongoing projects, challenges, and updates. This creates a routine for communication and collaboration. Create Cross-Functional Teams: Form cross-functional teams that include members from both IT and security. This encourages collaboration on projects and helps build relationships between team members. Define Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each team. Understanding how each team contributes to overall organizational goals can reduce misunderstandings and promote cooperation.

Involving SECURITY must be part of the SDLC process whether using AGILE or PMBOK project management methodologies. In helping write a hybrid PM methodology, we always had participation for Security, Infrastructure, Computer Operations, DBA & other "forgotten" areas in early project planning & participation Invite Security, DBA, Desktop Support, Operations, Internal Audit, etc, to participate in PLANNING phase of projects, rather than scrambling later during implementation. "Invite them to the project takeoff rather than crash landing in PROD later" - lol Inviting Security will optimize for both users & developers. Promoting from TEST to PROD is always a whole new ballgame & doing that without planning & participation can be disastrous

In my experience, the communication gap between IT and security often stems from siloed objectives and unclear ownership of risks. To foster alignment, I recommend integrating security objectives into IT workflows through DevSecOps practices, ensuring security is built into every project from the outset. Additionally, cross-training can break down barriers; when IT staff gain security certifications and security teams understand IT operations, mutual respect and shared language develop. Leadership must champion this integration, emphasizing collaboration over blame during incidents. Start small—try joint retrospectives after incidents to spark trust and collaboration. Over time, this can evolve into a seamless partnership.