What's Happening?
The cybersecurity sector in the UK has experienced a significant growth, with the number of professionals in the field increasing by 194% since 2021. According to a report by Socura, a managed detection and response specialist, the number of cybersecurity professionals rose
from 28,500 in December 2021 to 83,700 by June 2025. This growth positions cybersecurity as the fifth fastest-growing occupation in the UK, surpassing other IT roles in terms of expansion rate. Despite this increase, the industry still faces a talent shortage, with one cybersecurity professional available for every 68 businesses. Additionally, the sector continues to struggle with gender imbalance, as only 21% of the workforce are women, a decrease from 24% four years ago.
Why It's Important?
The rapid expansion of the cybersecurity workforce underscores the increasing demand for security professionals amid rising cyber threats. This growth is crucial for protecting businesses and national infrastructure from cyberattacks. However, the persistent talent gap poses a risk to maintaining robust cybersecurity defenses. The gender imbalance further highlights the need for diversity in the field, which can enhance problem-solving and innovation. Addressing these issues is vital for ensuring the resilience of the cybersecurity sector and, by extension, the broader economy and national security.
What's Next?
Efforts to close the talent gap and improve gender diversity in cybersecurity are expected to continue. Initiatives like the NCSC’s CyberFirst Girls competition and various 'Women in Cyber' networks aim to attract more women to the field. Additionally, fostering talent beyond major urban centers like London is seen as a priority to ensure all organizations have access to necessary cybersecurity support. Investing in employee welfare and mental health is also emphasized to prevent burnout and sustain growth in the sector.
