Cyber security consultant | All the information you need to know

An IT cyber security consultant identifies issues, evaluates security concerns and assesses the necessary precautions to minimise risk to a business’ networks and systems. The wide range of activities involved in cyber security consulting are all designed to protect a company against threats in a proactive manner.

What is the salary of a consultant in cyber security?

The average salary for a cyber security consultant in the UK is £47,808 annually, according to Glassdoor. There is an estimated additional pay of £2,984 on average per year, which is made up of bonuses, profit sharing and other benefits.

As this is the median of 433 salaries, it demonstrates how lucrative a career in cyber security consulting can be, with the potential to earn as much as £64,000 a year. Roles within information security have good career progression, with businesses compensating employees for their experience.

How to become a cyber security consultant in the UK?

Just like a cyber security analyst, to become a cyber security consultant, there are a number of routes to take, with the most conventional being a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject like computer science. From there, it’s worth seeking cyber security work experience to hone your technical skills.

Once you’ve spent some time in the workplace, you’ll be ready to apply for junior cyber security analyst roles. From here, you can start to build your career, taking up opportunities to progress into a cyber security specialist as they present themselves.

Qualifications of a cyber security consultant

Whether you’ve come to cyber security from a specialised degree or are pivoting your career to a security consultant role, having relevant qualifications and certifications on your CV will certainly help. Continued professional development is one way to stay on top of all the latest security strategies and propel your career forward.

Some of the most useful qualifications to take include:

  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
  • Security+

Skills required for a cyber security consultant

Cyber security consultants need a combination of technical and soft skills to succeed in the industry. Applicants that have good interpersonal skills can stand out from other candidates with the same level of knowledge and expertise.

Cyber security consultant technical skills

  • Comprehensive understanding of hacking and coding ethical standards
  • A keen eye for potential threats including social engineering, phishing and network access 
  • Proficiency in penetration testing to test systems for vulnerabilities
  • Experience of operating systems such as Windows, UNIX and Linux
  • Knowledge of programming languages like Python and JavaScript
  • Up-to-date knowledge of encryption techniques to mitigate risks

Desired soft skills

  • Good communication
  • Effective teamwork
  • Strong leadership and project management
  • Passion for continued learning

Roles and responsibilities of a cyber security consultant

Security risks come in many forms and it’s the responsibility of a cyber security consultant not only to detect and prevent them, but also respond to any incidents. Early on in their careers, consultants might be configuring devices and dealing with customers, while senior employees will likely be setting security strategies.

The main responsibilities of a cyber security consultant are:

  • Efficiently guarding against potential cyber attacks by protecting systems, networks, data and software
  • Testing for vulnerabilities and conducting security checks, as well as setting a threat analysis schedule
  • Keeping up-to-date with validation procedures, security systems, and emerging threats
  • Determining internet safety issues and working with IT departments to create solutions
  • Working across departments to ensure complete protection for the client

Writing and presenting technical reports complete with actionable solutions

Cyber security consultant’s career path

The cyber security roadmap will look different for each consultant, but despite the nuances, a typical career path is likely to follow these four stages:

1. Gain some initial experience in an entry-level role
2. Rise up the ranks and become a junior security analyst
3. Build on professional development with relevant information security certifications
4. Apply for first cyber security consultant job

Are cyber security consultants in demand?

Cyber security consultancy is in demand globally due to increased threats, technological advancements and improved regulatory support. Most modern businesses need to protect themselves against cyber attacks to prevent reputational and operational damage, with many cyber security jobs needing filling.