Cybersecurity is an area of information technology (IT) that is gaining a great deal of attention lately. While cyber criminals develop new ways to find and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, organizations worldwide are reassessing their information security measures with the guidance of expert cybersecurity managers.
According to national data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities should be excellent for those pursuing careers in information security fields such as cybersecurity. BLS projects that computer and IT job employment in general will increase much faster than average between 2023 and 2033, with employment of computer and information systems managers increasing by 17% and employment of information security analysts growing by 33%. IT professionals looking to advance their careers in this high-demand field can begin by enrolling in the online Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Cybersecurity program from Florida Institute of Technology.
What Is Cybersecurity Management?
Cybersecurity management can be described as everything an organization does to protect its information systems and computer networks from cyberattacks, intrusions, malware and various types of data breaches. All businesses and government agencies are vulnerable to cyberattacks that are growing in sophistication, as well as in number. Keeping networks running smoothly and protecting sensitive data takes constant monitoring and proper cybersecurity management.
Cybersecurity Manager Job Description: Why Is the Position So Important?
Cybersecurity managers are responsible for knowing where a network’s possible vulnerabilities lie. They stay on top of the methods cyber criminals use to infiltrate information systems and they use their expertise and knowledge to avert these efforts. By performing their daily job duties, cybersecurity managers protect organizations from losing data, such as customers’ credit card information and valuable trade secrets, as well as the time and money lost when information systems are brought to a halt.
Cybersecurity managers accomplish their responsibilities through planning and implementing security measures on all information systems and networks. Typical job duties include establishing network security policies and procedures, regulating access to information and training staff on proper use of information systems.
Cybersecurity managers often monitor systems for security gaps, design effective solutions and provide reports to management and executive staff. Running risk assessments, testing data processing systems and designing firewalls are additional duties for these professionals. If an intrusion does take place, it is the cybersecurity manager’s job to take care of it as quickly and effectively as possible.
Additionally, managers may also be responsible for coordinating, supervising, managing or training others. The cybersecurity manager’s team often includes cybersecurity specialists that focus on certain tasks like vulnerability assessment or systems analysis.
Where Can I Find Jobs in Cybersecurity Management?
In today’s advanced information technology landscape, everyone and every organization is vulnerable to cyberattacks. As such, cybersecurity managers are becoming integral elements of many organizations’ information and security departments.
Cybersecurity managers are valuable to a wide range of employers, in large and small companies. With the right qualifications, one may find employment opportunities in industries such as government contracting, information technology, the armed forces, financial services, education or healthcare.
Education Preparation for Cybersecurity Manager Jobs
Preparing for cybersecurity manager jobs involves gaining expertise and obtaining the industry knowledge employers need most. According to BLS, entry- to mid-level cybersecurity jobs such as information security analyst positions require at least a bachelor’s degree. However, some managerial positions require a relevant master’s degree, such as an MBA in cybersecurity.
Often, military and government agency employers require cybersecurity managers to hold security clearances and industry certifications. Prospective employers may offer tuition assistance to help promising candidates obtain a master’s degree.
Other Qualifications and Advancement
Along with the education and experience required to launch a cybersecurity management career, a professional will need excellent communication and leadership abilities. Employers will typically look for a well-rounded set of attributes, including:
- Strong interpersonal and persuasion abilities
- The ability to understand how a business functions and to balance security needs with organizational goals
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- A collaborative work style
- Commitment to continuous development and continuing education, to stay on top of IT and cybersecurity trends
Cybersecurity Manager Potential Salary
According to BLS, the 2023 median annual earnings for information security analysts was $120,360. Computer and information systems managers made an impressive median salary of $169,510 per year, with a typical salary range of $131,770 to $214,050.
Salary potential may vary depending on location, education, experience and other factors. Prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research to determine actual earning potential.
Can You See Yourself as a Cybersecurity Manager?
Cybersecurity management is a quickly growing field with tremendous opportunity. You’ll need the right combination of expertise, education, knowledge and drive to pursue a career as a cybersecurity manager, but once gained, the payoff can be very rewarding. If you have a knack for computers, analysis and problem solving, you could be a great fit for a cybercrime fighting career as a cybersecurity manger.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online MBA in Cybersecurity program.
