The UK cyber security workforce has grown by 163 per cent in the past five years, according to a research report.
In light of growing concerns around the cyber security skills shortage gap, the report, which looked at data from information technology job tracking firm IT Jobs Watch and the quarterly labour force survey by the Office for National Statistics, is encouraging.
The data shows that salaries are up seven per cent in the past year to around £57,000 a year.
Karen Price, chief executive of the Tech Partnership, said: “In today’s data-driven world, nothing is more important for UK businesses than maintaining security.
“Developing the skills to protect ourselves is a national priority, and needs action at every level: at schools and universities, through digital apprenticeships, and through upskilling for experienced professionals.”
Price said employers are joining forces to make a difference in many areas, and are working with the government to ensure the UK has the skilled staff needed to maintain a leadership position in cyber security.
The core processes and methodological skills in demand have remained constant over the past year, with firewall and network security and information security featuring in 84 per cent of all job advertisements.
However there are large increases in demand for more specialist areas, with cyber crime up 264 per cent and Big Data up 202 per cent.