How often should the CIP Senior Manager review and approve plans?

The correct frequency for the CIP Senior Manager to review and approve plans is every 15 calendar months. This timeline is specified in the NERC CIP standards to ensure that the plans remain up-to-date and reflect any changes in the environment, technology, or compliance requirements. The 15-month cycle allows organizations to maintain a proactive approach to risk management and adapt to evolving threats, vulnerabilities, and regulatory demands while ensuring that governance structures remain aligned with the latest standards.

This period is longer than a quarterly or yearly review, which may not provide enough opportunity to adapt to changes in the threat landscape. The specific interval of 15 calendar months strikes a balance, ensuring sufficient time for analysis and updates while still maintaining compliance with the requirement of regular reviews. Understanding this schedule aids organizations in their strategic planning and risk management efforts in the critical infrastructure sector.