In an increasingly digitised world, the importance of cyber security cannot be overstated. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and prevalent, the demand for skilled professionals in the field has skyrocketed. The Cyber Security Skills in the UK Labour Market 2022 report sheds light on the evolving employment landscape in cyber security, emphasising the need for leaders and workers who possess not only technical expertise but also a range of other valuable skills.

According to the report from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology, over half of UK businesses suffer with a basic cyber skills gap meaning “the people in charge of cyber security … lack the confidence to carry out the kinds of basic tasks laid out in the government-endorsed Cyber Essentials scheme” (pg. 1). In short, UK businesses are in a vulnerable position when it comes to cyber security: we need leaders with cyber security literacy who can create cultures of safety and security within their organisations, and we need to provide education and training for leaders who do not posses the right knowledge to ensure the security of their organisations.

The Expanding Realm of Cybersecurity

Cyber security encompasses a broad range of roles, each with its own unique set of responsibilities. While technical proficiency remains important, there is a growing recognition that the field requires a multidisciplinary approach with 4 in 10 cyber sector firms reporting a skills gap around “communication, leadership, management, or sales and marketing” (Zatterin et.al. 2022, pg.2). There is a need for leaders and workers who can bridge the gap between technical teams and other organisational departments, facilitating effective governance, communication, and collaboration.

Cybersecurity Leadership: Beyond Technical Expertise

The Cyber Security Skills in the UK Labour Market 2022 emphasizes the rising demand for cybersecurity leaders who possess strong strategic and managerial skills. Organizations require individuals who can effectively develop and implement security policies, manage risk, and guide decision-making processes. Leadership roles in cybersecurity now necessitate a holistic understanding of business operations and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Cybersecurity Awareness and Training

As cyber threats continue to evolve, it is essential for organizations to invest in cybersecurity awareness and governance. Employees with a solid understanding of best practices and the ability to identify potential risks are invaluable assets. Consequently, responding to the call for more cybersecurity educators who can develop and deliver comprehensive training programs to foster a culture of cybersecurity within organizations, the Lancaster University Management School and School of Computing and Communication have partnered with Templar Executives to create one of the first Cyber Security Executive MBA (CEMBA) programmes in the world. Offering a fully accredited MBA curriculum that includes relevant topics such as accounting and finance, economics, leadership, strategy, operations, and marketing, the CEMBA equips leaders to understand and respond to the ever increasingly complex world of security and risk with sophisticated strategies and tactics. In addition, acknowledging that cybersecurity analysts are the frontline defence against threats through their constant monitoring, detecting, and responding to security incidents, the CEMBA helps equip these technical experts with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills they need to do their jobs well. The ability to analyze patterns and identify emerging threats allows analysts to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Finally with the ever-changing regulatory landscape, organizations require professionals who can navigate complex legal frameworks and ensure compliance. Policy and compliance experts play a vital role in developing and implementing cybersecurity policies and ensuring organizations adhere to industry standards and regulatory requirements. These roles demand a deep understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks, risk management, and strong communication skills. The CEMBA programme includes five modules that focus specifically on cyber related topics such as core technologies, risk management, and cyber regulation and governance.

The UK Cyber Labour Market 2022 makes clear that technological expertise is insufficient when it comes to cyber security. This is evidenced with the increase of organizations turning to cybersecurity consultants to identify vulnerabilities, assess risks, and develop comprehensive security strategies. These roles require not only technical expertise but also the ability to understand business objectives, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and provide actionable recommendations.

Further, the report underscores the evolving nature of employment opportunities in the cybersecurity field. While technical skills remain vital, there is an increasing recognition of the need for leaders and workers with a diverse range of expertise. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, organizations must embrace a multidisciplinary approach, fostering collaboration between technical teams and non-technical departments.

If you are considering a career in cybersecurity in the UK, the future looks promising. Whether you possess technical proficiency, managerial acumen, communication skills, or legal expertise, there are various roles available that can utilize your talents. If you would like to learn more about enhancing those skills and abilities with our Cyber Security Executive MBA programme, please contact our programme team: Professor Dan Prince and/or Dr. Robyn Remke. You can also learn more about the CEMBA programme at our website.

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