UK’s IT security skills shortage expected to pose threat

UK businesses are facing risks to their IT security due to a lack of requisite skills.

Meanwhile, the majority (77%) of UK chief information officers (CIOs) believe they will face more security threats in the next five years due to a shortage of IT security talent.

That’s according to new findings by specialist recruitment agency, Robert Half Technology, published in its new report, Cybersecurity – protecting your future.

The top three IT security risks UK CIOs believe their organisations will be facing in the next 5 years are data abuse/data integrity (60%), cybercrime (54%) and spying/spyware/ransomware (39%). In response to these increased threats, more than a third (34%) of UK CIOs are planning to increase headcount.

The escalating fear of data theft, hacking and fraud, compounded with many staff working remotely and with multiple devices means an increased demand for IT security specialists. Cybersecurity experts with the specialist skills needed to help companies recognise and protect themselves against key data security risks are in high demand but, at the same time, challenging to find.

Neil Owen, Director, Robert Half Technology commented: “There is no doubt that highly specialised skills are vital. But the ability to clearly articulate cybersecurity issues in a language that senior management and non-IT employees understand will not only increase security awareness but also enhance the reputation of the IT department as business partners who add value across the business.”

The positions that are most in demand are IT Security Analyst (junior level), Information Security Officer (mid-level) and Security Operations Officer (mid-level). The appeal of having experts on hand when needed is expected to grow, with 27% of UK CIOs saying they will increase the number of contract IT security professionals in the next 12 months. Companies are also gradually recognising the importance of hiring a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), who is not only the key player in efficiently managing the IT security process, but also in enhancing internal security awareness across organisations.

Neil added: “The prominence of cyber breaches has lifted the demand for cybersecurity experts as cyber risk becomes a company-wide point of discussion. An insufficient number of new specialists entering the IT market has forced organisations to consider effective retention programmes, training existing staff, partnering with educational institutions and developing flexible hiring policies that include both permanent and contract specialists. A dynamic IT strategy that brings together the right fit of technology and people is the cornerstone for companies protecting their future.”