Your fast track to become an infosec manager

• Career steps
• Career overview
• Important skills
• What do infosec manager do?
• Job description
• Salary and outlook

If you want a constantly in-demand career in technology, consider becoming an information security manager. The need for cybersecurity experts is expected to significantly increase in the next decade.

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Information security managers guard an organization’s computer networks and systems against unauthorized access or use. They might install firewalls, create response plans for incidents, and make policies to keep data safe and available. They may also oversee staff who work on daily security tasks.

Ready to learn more? Here’s everything you should know about becoming an information security manager.

What does an information security manager do?

• An information security manager develops and implements policies and procedures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.
• They also examine reports produced by the monitoring system to look for any signs of future cybersecurity risks.
• Security managers oversee backup and security systems, recover data in case of a disaster, and conduct security violation investigations. 
• Security managers also sometimes run simulated attacks to evaluate the effectiveness of security measures. Professionals in this position also ensure all data is appropriately secure, working with other IT staff members to achieve this. 
• Additionally, information security managers need to educate staff about threats and the use of strong passwords and protect data while working outside the office. 
• They also work with upper management to develop strategies for potential security threats. Managers and employees are assigned different levels of access to corporate data depending on their experience and role in the company.
• Information security managers must have a strong understanding of computer networks and systems. They must be able to identify potential security risks and develop strategies for mitigating those risks. 
• Information security managers also need to have excellent communication skills. They must be able to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical staff members and upper management.
• Information security managers play a crucial role in avoiding disasters by identifying weak areas that might make information systems vulnerable.
• Most information security management professionals work full time in an office environment. Some managers also manage those who telecommute and run an in-house staff.

How to become an information security manager?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the steps vary depending on your previous education and work experience. Yet, there are some common steps that many people take when looking to become an information security manager.

Per Cyberseek’s data, 12 percent of cybersecurity managers obtained an associate degree, 67 percent of them have earned bachelors and 21 percent pursued a masters degree.

In most cases, people may pursue a bachelor’s degree in information security or a related field, such as computer science. Some also have a master’s degree in a related area, such as information security. 

Cyber security-related courses usually include IT fundamentals, data and web security, technical communication, cyber law, risk management, web development, digital forensics, and related subjects.

Some Information Security Managers pursue certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), SANS/GIAC Certification (Various), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). These IT certifications may help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs.

Information security manager skills and experiences

Begin your information security career in entry-level roles like system administrator or security analyst, then progress to a security manager with experience. While degrees and certifications enhance employability, practical experience, often gained through initial positions or internships, is crucial for career success in this field.

Also, here are the top skills requested for cybersecurity managers:

• Information Security
• Information Systems
• Project Management
• Information Assurance
• Linux
• Network Security
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework
• Risk Management Framework
• SAP

Projected future skills for cybersecurity managers:

• Cloud Security
• Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) Management
• Enterprise Mission Assurance Support Service
• Cybersecurity Strategy
• Security Insider Threat Management

What are some common career paths for information security managers?

Information security managers are needed in various organizations like corporations, government agencies, and non-profits, across both private and public sectors, each presenting unique security challenges.

Your role, whether managing a team or working independently, will focus on defending data and ensuring system security, tailored to the specific threats faced by the organization’s type and size.

What are some entry-level positions in this field?

There are many entry-level positions in the information security field. These positions may include cybersecurity technician, junior security analyst, security engineer, and network administrator. These positions let you get experience and learn about technologies used to safeguard data. Typically, beginners in cybersecurity may handle backups, monitor logs, and update software.

You can find various entry-level jobs in information security tailored to your interests, such as junior digital forensic analyst or junior web security analyst. These positions provide a great start in the field, helping you gain experience and prepare for future management roles.

What are some more advanced careers?

There are many advanced careers in the field of information security. These careers may include senior security analyst, lead security engineer, and information security director, and these positions require a great deal of experience and knowledge in the field. 

Senior-level cybersecurity professionals may perform threat modeling, incident response, and vulnerability management. These more advanced careers often require several years of experience working in the field.

Once you gain experience in the cybersecurity field, you may choose to move into more advanced positions, such as an information security manager or security director. 

Some common job titles related to this role:

• Security Manager
• Information Systems Security Officer
• Information Security Manager
• Security Administrator
• Information Security Officer

These jobs need you to understand technologies that protect data and to create and apply policies. You’ll work with advanced security systems and have important responsibilities to keep an organization’s data safe. You might also lead a team of security experts.

Sample job descriptions of information security manager

Description one

• In a progressive company, experienced and motivated information security manager will be responsible for:
  • Developing and implementing security policies and procedures
  • Monitoring compliance with security policies and procedures
  • Conducting risk assessments
  • Identifying security vulnerabilities
  • Developing plans to mitigate risks
  • Investigating incidents
  • Preparing reports for senior management
• The ideal manager candidate should have experience working in an information security role and a strong understanding of security technologies. They will also work independently and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Description two

• Experienced information security manager will be responsible for:
  • Developing and implementing information security policies, procedures, and controls
  • Conducting risk assessments and audits
  • Managing incident response
  • Researching and staying up to date on security trends
  • Training employees on security awareness
• Requirements for this position include:
  • Proven experience as an information security manager or similar role
  • Experience with security frameworks
  • Solid understanding of security technologies and controls (firewalls, encryption, access control, etc.)
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong project management and organizational abilities

Description three 

• The information security manager creates and applies security rules, checks for risks, handles incident responses and research, stays current on security trends, and trains employees on security awareness.
• Requirements for this position include:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field
  • Minimum of five years experience in information security
  • Experience with incident response, risk assessment, and management
  • Strong understanding of security trends and technologies
  • Excellent communication and training skills

What is the salary for an information security manager?

The salary for an information security manager may vary depending on the organization’s size and location.

In 2023, Salary.com stated that the average information security managers earn $147,974 annually. However, the typical salaries range from $133,543 to $164,250. Aside from location and experience, salary ranges can vary significantly depending on various criteria, including education and certifications.

Outlook for information security manager

The outlook from the Department of Labor Statistics shows that demand for information security analysts and cybersecurity occupations will expand by 32 percent between now and 2030. 

The job outlook for information security managers is positive. The demand for qualified professionals is likely to continue growing in the coming years. As security threats increase and become more sophisticated, organizations must invest in security managers to protect their data.

Bottom line

The role of an information security manager is vital to any organization in today’s climate. With the ever-growing threat of cyber attacks, it’s essential to have someone in this role who is up-to-date on the latest security trends and technologies. 

To become an information security manager, you can explore numerous opportunities due to the growing demand in the field. Success in this role requires experience, a solid grasp of security technologies, and the ability to work independently and make decisions, sometimes in a fast-paced setting.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• InfoSec Manager career pathway | Sourced from cyberseek.org in October 2023.
• Salary info for InfoSec Manager | Sourced from salary.com in October 2023.
• Outlook info for InfoSec Manager | Sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics in October 2023.