Examining the Role of Information Technology Governance in Enhancing Risk Management Performance and Regulatory Compliance in Multinational Digital Enterprises

This study investigates the role of Information Technology (IT) governance in enhancing risk management performance and ensuring regulatory compliance within multinational digital enterprises. As digital transformation continues to reshape the global business landscape, organizations face increasing challenges in managing technological risks and complying with complex regulatory requirements across various jurisdictions. The study adopts a quantitative approach, using a survey methodology to collect data from senior IT and compliance managers in multinational digital enterprises. The survey focuses on how IT governance frameworks, such as COBIT 2019 and ISO 27000, are utilized to align IT strategies with business objectives, mitigate risks, and maintain regulatory compliance. The findings indicate that organizations with well-established IT governance structures are better positioned to proactively identify and mitigate risks, ensuring greater consistency in meeting regulatory requirements. These organizations demonstrate improved risk management effectiveness, especially concerning cybersecurity, data privacy, and compliance with global regulations like GDPR. In contrast, organizations with ad hoc or decentralized governance structures struggle with fragmented risk management and compliance efforts. The study further highlights the importance of integrating IT governance frameworks with internal audit functions, specifically the Chief Audit Executive (CAE), to enhance cybersecurity resilience and ensure compliance with global standards. This research contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the integration of IT governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance in multinational enterprises. It also highlights the need for a structured and systematic approach to IT governance to improve organizational performance in managing risks and ensuring consistent regulatory adherence. The study offers practical insights for organizations looking to optimize their IT governance structures in the face of rapid digital transformation.