Who is primarily responsible for managing threats and vulnerabilities associated with a specific risk?

The role of the Risk Owner is crucial in the management of threats and vulnerabilities associated with specific risks. A Risk Owner is typically a designated individual or entity responsible for understanding and addressing the risk that affects the organization or a specific project. They are accountable for implementing strategies and controls to mitigate the risk and ensure that it aligns with the organization's risk appetite and objectives. This role involves identifying potential risks, assessing their impact, and developing plans to manage them effectively.

In contrast, while the other roles mentioned have important functions within risk management, they do not carry the same level of responsibility as the Risk Owner. A Risk Register is a tool used to document risks, including their descriptions, effects, and responses. A Risk Auditor evaluates how risks are managed and the effectiveness of those management strategies, but they do not manage risks directly. A Risk Assessor typically specializes in identifying and analyzing risks but does not take the ownership necessary to manage them. Hence, the Risk Owner is uniquely positioned to be accountable for managing threats and vulnerabilities directly related to specific risks.