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Cyberterrorism

Launch of Executive Cybersecurity Risk Credential (ECRC) Addresses Urgent Need for Cybersecurity Expertise Among In-House Counsel

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC), in partnership with CLASS-LLC, has introduced the Executive Cybersecurity Risk Credential (ECRC) to equip in-house counsel and legal professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage enterprise cybersecurity risk. This comprehensive program addresses the pressing need for cybersecurity expertise among in-house counsel, as highlighted by the ACC's 2025 CLO Survey, which reported that over half of chief legal officers feel unprepared for data-related risks.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ECRC program is designed specifically for in-house counsel and legal professionals responsible for overseeing enterprise cybersecurity risk, providing comprehensive training in board governance, risk culture, strategy, regulatory alignment, and operational risk execution.
  • The curriculum covers 20 hours of instructor-led, in-person workshops plus online content via a learning management system (LMS), case studies, exams, and continuing support.
  • Participants who successfully complete the training and pass the proctored exam earn the ACC ECRC credential and receive a certificate and digital badge for email signature lines, social media profiles, and professional use.
  • According to ACC's 2025 CLO Survey, more than half (51.9%) of chief legal officers reported feeling unprepared for data-related risks, underscoring the urgency for legal leaders to deepen their cybersecurity acumen.
  • The ACC ECRC aims to strengthen preparedness levels among in-house counsel and legal professionals, equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and strategic mindset to manage crises, guide their organizations through cyber challenges, and report effectively to boards.
  • Veta T. Richardson, ACC president and CEO, emphasizes the importance of in-house counsel taking a central role in cybersecurity, managing liability, and earning stakeholder trust.
  • Keyaan Williams, Founder and Managing Director, CLASS LLC, highlights the strategic approach to governance and management of cyber risk, which are two sides of the same coin, requiring appropriate attention and resources.

Statistics:

  • Over 51.9% of chief legal officers reported feeling unprepared for data-related risks, according to ACC's 2025 CLO Survey.
  • The ECRC program involves 20 hours of instructor-led, in-person workshops plus online content via a learning management system (LMS).
  • More than 48,000 ACC members are employed by over 12,000 organizations spanning 117 countries.
  • 56% of chief legal officers reported feeling very unprepared or somewhat unprepared to manage data-related risks, according to ACC's 2025 CLO Survey.

Sources:

  • ACC's 2025 CLO Survey
  • The Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC)
  • CLASS-LLC
  • Veta T. Richardson, ACC president and CEO
  • Keyaan Williams, Founder and Managing Director, CLASS LLC

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