Can you hack it in the cyber world?
RECRUITMENT to the IT and cyber security sector is booming as companies fight to defend their computer systems from hackers.
According to the Association of Professional Staffing Companies, recruitment is up 23 per cent annually — and it’s a trend experts think will continue.
‘There is huge demand for all levels of experience in the IT and security industries,’ says Ben Broughton, co-owner of Premier Group Recruitment.
‘Top talent is commanding high salaries, but there is also a growing trend towards recruiting people with experience and who have a passion for tech rather than qualifications.
‘Instead of using traditional recruitment methods, “hack offs” are becoming more common, where candidates are invited to hack into a company’s secure site to establish their skills and proficiency.’
Marine Mkrtchyan, a project manager at IT and cyber security company Bonfire, says: ‘I chose this career because it is a fastpaced field where experienced staff are in high demand, there are opportunities worldwide and it is an industry that will be around for years to come.’
Marine, 30, committed to an IT career at university. ‘Now as an IT project manager, I feel proud when I deliver a product to a client, especially when it exceeds their expectations. It helps me realise that I can make a difference,’ she says.
‘An IT career brings endless learning opportunities, the possibility of fast career growth and the ability to contribute to innovative solutions that can improve the world around us.’
BONFIRE chief executive Eric Vogel says: ‘ Cyber security is not always as glamorous as it is portrayed on TV — it can mean long hours and weekend working, and it can be challenging, because a cyber security mistake can end a business or a career.
‘We look for recruits who love what they do rather than seeing it as just another job, and who care about how the job is executed, can work independently or in a team, work well under pressure to tight deadlines and have a sense of humour.’
Cyber security salaries start from £22,000, but in some industries can reach £100,000 plus.