Phil Jackman’s career took an unexpected turn in 2018 when he founded CyberNorth, a former Dynamo-backed organisation that represents a cluster of cyber security firms in the North East of England. It was a perfect opportunity, though, combining his love for the region with technological expertise gained over 30 years in IT management in both the public and private sectors.
In a recent interview with Nigel Wright cyber security expert, Paul Newton, Jackman explained how cyber security is actually a career choice for people from all types of professional backgrounds. He also discussed his ambitions for CyberNorth, as well as how the organisation seeks to educate businesses on the importance of cyber security amidst an ever-changing threat landscape.
What is CyberNorth and how does it educate business leaders on the importance of cyber security?
CyberNorth is an organisation that represents a cluster of cyber security businesses in the North East. Our core group consists of 80 companies delivering cyber security services across the region. Those firms exist within a wider ecosystem consisting of large organisations with in-house cyber security services, as well as academic institutions with computer science programmes. We currently run sessions aimed at encouraging business leaders to take cyber security seriously and educate them on cyber security challenges. Our organisation is working with the CBI, FSB and the North East England Chamber of Commerce to engage with all types of businesses. Hosting events like this year’s CyberFest is also integral to our mission to raise awareness of cyber threats.
What do you think are the greatest threats to businesses today and how can companies better prepare for these eventualities?
The main threat faced by cyber security firms and non-cyber security firms is finding good people. People are the most underrated and underestimated aspect of cyber security, so the focus should be on the people in the organisation, as cyber security is really a people problem. Other threats include complacency, a lack of awareness, and overstretching of technology professionals. All business leaders should gain knowledge about the threat landscape and the measures they can take to protect their companies. This includes seeking guidance from cyber security experts and building relationships with trusted advisors in the industry. Obtaining a Cyber Essentials certification is also a low-cost way to assess a company's security position vis-à-vis the most common threats.
What are the different backgrounds and skills required for a career in cyber security? How does the role of cyber security vary in different types of organisations?
Cyber security is a broad and diverse field that offers many exciting opportunities beyond technical roles. It is not always the main job of an individual either, as it is often bolted onto something else. Anyone with responsibility for cyber security can come from different backgrounds including computer science and IT, as well as non-technical areas such as communication and design. The role of cyber security within an organisation depends on its size and type. Smaller organisations may not need a full-time cyber security resource, and it can either be assigned to a person responsible for technology or outsourced to a professional company. Even if it is outsourced, though, business leaders still need to understand the risks and potential impact of any incidents.
What are the opportunities for career growth and development in the cyber security industry? How is CyberNorth using its platform to attract more people into this field, especially among students?
The cyber security industry offers well-paid jobs in a growing, constantly evolving, and exciting global sector with an ever-changing threat landscape. There are also opportunities to get involved in emerging areas such as AI, blockchain, and low code. Overall, the industry offers a chance to work on cutting-edge technologies that help businesses grow and be sustainable. CyberNorth is collaborating with schools and students through programs such as CyberFirst to encourage more young people to consider a career in cyber-security. We’re committed to promoting the attractive aspects of the job, as outlined above, as well as encouraging cyber security firms to take part in the Shared Apprenticeship Scheme and offer work experience opportunities.
What is your ambition for Cyber North and what would success look like for CyberNorth over the next three years?
My ambition for CyberNorth is to promote the North East region as an attractive destination for cyber security services, investment, and education. I emphasise the connection between cyber and digital technology, noting that cyber security is essential for any digital business to be secure. Cyber security should be viewed as an integral part of any technology-related industry. By 2026, CyberNorth will have played a key role in transforming the region’s cyber security sector into a vibrant community of companies with strong relationships throughout the UK. The North East will be recognised internationally for its cyber security expertise, particularly in industries such as offshore renewables, advanced manufacturing, digital, and the public sector.