European CISOs face rising regulatory demands, geopolitical instability, and rapid technological shifts. The 2025 Forrester Wave™ on cybersecurity consulting services in Europe captures a market in motion. Resilience now drives trust, AI amplifies capabilities, and data governance defines credibility. Our latest evaluation reveals the following market trends that European CISOs should consider when choosing their provider:
- Resilience and innovation drive value, data governance builds trust. European CISOs now prioritize resilience, the security of emerging technologies, and transparency. They choose consulting providers that offer tailored crisis simulations and OT recovery planning, embed resilience capabilities into transformation programs — rather than relying on generic templates — and treat resilience as a compliance requirement. Leading European cybersecurity consulting providers secure AI, OT, and quantum systems, and use AI to test and develop quantum-safe IP — linking technological innovation directly to business outcomes. European CISOs now insist that providers disclose data flows, embed privacy by design, and offer safeguards for third-party risks. Exposing clients to cross-border compliance gaps is strongly discouraged.
- Pricing models are shifting from effort to outcomes. AI is transforming service delivery — the real opportunity lies in redefining value, not in discounting cost. Truly AI-enabled providers deliver decisions, automation, and measurable business impact. CISOs should demand pricing models that link fees directly to outcomes like faster compliance closure, reduced risk exposure, or earlier threat detection. AI makes these results achievable; however, providers must demonstrate value, not assume it.
To discuss our recommendations further, reach out to schedule an inquiry or guidance session. Better yet, come see me in person at the Forrester Security & Risk Summit, November 5–7 in Austin.
