Security Managers

 Security managers, also called cybersecurity managers or computer security managers, oversee their organization's information security needs, processes, and procedures. They manage other cybersecurity and information technology (IT) professionals, develop security best practices, and take responsibility for keeping data and information secure.

Security managers work in diverse sectors. Major employing industries include computer systems design, information, finance and insurance, and management.

Security manager jobs typically require at least a bachelor's degree. However, some employers prefer candidates with a master's. Earning professional certifications can also open doors to careers as cybersecurity managers.

Now is a good time to get into cybersecurity because of the high demand and competitive salaries. Fortune reports that the demand for cybersecurity professionals currently outpaces the supply. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information system managers earn nearly $160,000 in median salaries, much higher than other jobs.

Discover security managers' daily tasks and top skills. Find out about related cybersecurity career paths.

What Does a Security Manager Do?

Security managers' daily duties depend on where they work, their industry, and the size of their company. For example, those working at large investment banks may oversee teams of security analysts and other technology personnel.

Security managers working for small businesses may manage just a few people. In big companies, these professionals often focus on managerial responsibilities, while managers in smaller companies may take on more hands-on roles.

Security managers deal with high-level IT security issues, supervising employees who implement and configure security measures. Their duties include hiring new employees, preparing and overseeing budgets, and evaluating new security tools and technologies. They also develop policies, regulations, and strategies to enhance the security of their organizations' computer networks and systems.

Security managers are crucial to their organizations' success since they oversee operations that defend against cyber intrusions. They ensure that their organizations' data, financial assets, and customer information stay safe.

History of Security Managers

Not long ago, the cybersecurity field did not exist, let alone security manager jobs. Before the internet and digital records, most organizations did not store valuable data and information on computers. Cybersecurity began during the 1970s with the creation of the first antivirus software.

Security managers' job duties have grown over the years as the cybersecurity field has become more complex. Security managers need an advanced understanding of foundational IT skills and specialized expertise in cybersecurity.

As cyberattacks continue and organizations put more of their daily operations in the cloud, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals has risen dramatically in nearly every sector.