IT Governance vs. IT Management: who does what? A strategic guide for managers 

15 January 2026

Differences between IT governance and IT management: roles, responsibilities, and skills compared 

In the digital evolution of modern companies, understanding the difference between IT governance and IT management is essential for effectively managing technology and information-related risks. Within this context, roles such as IT Manager, Chief Information Officer (CIO), Head of IT, and IT staff play key roles in IT management.
Understanding these distinctions is also crucial for those working in security, such as the Cybersecurity Manager—a professional who must possess advanced technical expertise and soft skills to protect infrastructures and processes.

 

What is meant by IT governance? 

IT governance defines the policies, standards, and objectives that guide the strategic use of information technologies. It focuses on aligning IT with business goals, managing risk, and setting investment priorities. It ensures that IT supports corporate objectives by providing control, accountability, and performance measurement. The CIO (Chief Information Officer) is often the primary figure responsible for IT governance.

 

What does an IT Manager do?

The IT Manager, on the other hand, is responsible for the day-to-day operation of information systems. This is why questions such as “What does an IT Manager do?”, “What are the responsibilities of a Head of IT?”, or “What does an IT technician do?” are answered through technical and managerial activities: system maintenance, coordination of the IT team, user support, vendor management, and implementation of technological solutions.
Compensation for these roles varies based on experience but generally falls within a medium-to-high salary range, especially in complex corporate environments.

 

What is the difference between a CIO and an IT Manager? 

The distinction is primarily strategic:

  • the CIO leads the strategic vision and oversees IT governance;
  • the IT Manager supervises operational activities and the day-to-day management of the IT infrastructure.

In other words, the CIO decides the “what” and the “why,” while the IT Manager manages the “how” and the “when.”

 

Technical skills of the Cybersecurity Manager 

In a context of efficient IT governance and management, the role of the Cybersecurity Manager becomes indispensable. The required technical skills include:

  • knowledge of security regulations;
  • ability to assess and mitigate cyber risks;
  • design and implementation of defense strategies;
  • continuous updating on new threats, vulnerabilities, and emerging technologies.

 

Soft Skills and Leadership 

In addition to technical expertise, a Cybersecurity Manager must possess strong soft skills: effective communication, leadership, problem-solving, and the ability to manage complex crises.
This role requires close coordination with the Head of IT, the IT Manager, and the CIO, as well as interaction with all business functions.

 

Educational Pathways and Professional Development 

To become a Cybersecurity Manager, the following are recommended:

  • degrees in Computer Science, Engineering, or STEM disciplines;
  • master’s programs in cybersecurity or IT management;
  • certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, ISO 27001 Lead Implementer.

Professional growth is continuous, driven by the rise in cyber threats and the need to integrate security into IT governance.

 

Role Evolution and Future Challenges 

The Cybersecurity Manager evolves from a specialized technician into a strategic figure linked to governance and risk management. Key challenges include the increasing complexity of attacks, resource management, data protection, and the creation of a corporate culture of security.

 

 

Bologna Business School is able to offer highly qualifying and up-to-date Masters and Open Programs focused on IT governance, IT management, and cybersecurity.

The Professional Master in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Management, full-time, 12 months, taught in English, is designed for those who want to start a managerial career or develop an entrepreneurial idea by leveraging new technologies built around artificial intelligence. In a stimulating and international environment, with direct contact with leading Italian companies, participants will acquire innovative skills and accelerate their careers thanks to a market-oriented learning path, supported by Career Services and internships in local and global companies.

 

The Executive Master in Artificial Intelligence for Business, part-time, hybrid, 12 months in English, is designed to provide the skills needed to fully exploit the potential of AI within organizations. It targets entrepreneurs, managers, and professionals who want to strengthen their profile in a labor market increasingly focused on new technologies.
Its flexible structure—two evening online sessions per week and two smart weeks on campus for hands-on learning and network expansion—allows professionals to continue their careers while undertaking an innovative and challenging educational journey, transforming talent into true leadership.

 

The Open Program in Cybersecurity Management according to the National Framework 2025: strategies, governance, and organizational resilience is a part-time, hybrid program taught in Italian, delivered over eight training sessions. Designed to provide IT Managers, CISOs, and security managers with the skills needed to integrate cybersecurity into organizations, it is aligned with the National Framework for Cybersecurity and Data Protection – 2025 Edition, inspired by the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 and adapted to the Italian and European regulatory context.
By promoting a culture of technological security as a lever for competitiveness—even for SMEs—this immersive program enables participants to acquire an operational toolbox to prevent, respond to, and withstand cyberattacks. In partnership with Confindustria Emilia Romagna Area Centro and T-Consulting.

 

IT governance, IT management, and cybersecurity are increasingly central to the growth of all types of organizations, from large multinationals to SMEs. Bologna Business School is attentive to change and technological innovation, and is capable of training and upskilling the key players driving technological transformation.




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