Jobs & employment blog

 

While digital transformation has been a buzzword for the longest time now, the trend of organisations adapting to modern technology has been accelerating at a startling pace. Today, many organisations are adapting to these changes to meet the changing needs of consumers and the workforce. And while disruptions are to be expected with any new technology, none are as threatening as a potential cyber security breach. 

Today’s businesses are savvier with cyber security, with 77% of global leaders reporting more awareness today compared to three years ago. But while teams are committed to strengthening their cyber security profiles today, 90% of leaders found difficulties implementing their cyber security strategies due to skill gaps in their organisations. 

 

 

Although businesses are cognisant of the need to tighten their approach towards IT security, finding the right talent capable of reinforcing their front lines of defence has been difficult. These front-line skills cover critical areas such as cloud security, security architecture and security engineering. 

Experience in running a Security Operations Center (SOC) and implementing a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solution were also necessities for a role that has expanded in complexity these last few years. On top of everything, being able to manage cyber security from a governance, risk, and compliance angle is also essential to keep up with local regulatory needs. 

 

 

Workers with the knowledge and experience required to fill these roles are at a premium in a field where individuals with the right credentials can demand higher salaries from prospective hiring parties. Two-thirds of leaders surveyed did not rate their ability to attract cyber security talent highly amidst fierce competition between organisations to secure these resources. 
 
In a fast-moving market like tech, we understand the importance of having quick access to top talent who will make a real difference. We have spent years nurturing an ecosystem of highly engaged and unique candidates and will work with you to grow or scale your business using our unique expertise aligned to sectors and technologies. Be sure to reach out to us if you have a position that needs filling. 

 

 

With a skills shortage having an impact across the board, leaders have acknowledged the need to fill the gap. The result we are seeing is a more relaxed approach to hiring workers who lack formal cyber security accreditations, with the aim of upskilling and retraining both new and existing employees to meet organisational needs. 

 

 

This investment does not extend to employee retention, where many organisations prefer offering remote and hybrid working arrangements and a better work-life balance over monetary rewards to entice talents to stay. 

On the other hand, specialists in the field are finding themselves in high demand with a limited pool of competition. Many candidates today look beyond salary increments, moving between organisations for the chance to experience new industries and explore newer, better tools made available by employers who provide sufficient support to cyber security teams. 

As a result, organisations are exercising more flexibility with these crucial roles, either filling the gaps via contract talent or attracting the right personnel from abroad, complete with relocation packages for the right international fit. 

As recruitment experts in cyber security, we can help our candidates widen their career prospects. Reach out to us and let us find your next cyber security job for you. 

 

 

With cyber security defense strategies taking a hit due to the myriad of factors outlined above, organisations will need to find effective solutions to fill these gaps in talent. Summarised below are some simple next steps leaders can take to solve for this: 

 

Although they may not have the experience or complete skillset, there are people out there with the learning mindset to help your business. Broaden your search and think about the relevant skills any recruits would need and which they could build upon with the right training. 
 

It’s vital that your organisation stays ahead of cyber criminals through continuous learning. Ensure that senior leadership are aware of its importance and that your cyber security team are familiar with the latest practices and technologies. 

 

As a lifelong partner to businesses in Hong Kong, Hays is well placed to find the right solutions to your staffing needs. From identifying existing talent to training those with potential, we’re working for your tomorrow to help your organisation succeed in the short and long term. 
Be sure to browse our articles related to cyber security below.