ISO/IEC 27001:2013 Clause 5.1 is titled "Leadership and commitment." This clause emphasizes the critical role of top management in the leadership and commitment towards the information security management system (ISMS). It outlines the requirements for top management to demonstrate leadership and commitment to the ISMS by:
- Taking accountability for the effectiveness of the ISMS.
- Ensuring the information security policy and information security objectives are established and are compatible with the strategic direction of the organization.
- Ensuring the integration of the ISMS requirements into the organization’s processes.
- Ensuring that the resources needed for the ISMS are available.
- Communicating the importance of effective information security management and of conforming to the ISMS requirements.
- Ensuring that the ISMS achieves its intended outcomes.
- Directing and supporting persons to contribute to the effectiveness of the ISMS.
- Promoting continual improvement.
- Supporting other relevant management roles to demonstrate their leadership as it applies to their areas of responsibility.
This clause highlights that the engagement and leadership of top management are vital for the ISMS's success, underscoring the importance of their involvement in fostering a security-conscious culture and ensuring the ISMS is appropriately resourced and aligned with the organization's overall business objectives.