A Look at the Growing Need for Cybersecurity Executives

October 29, 2024 – The market for cybersecurity recruiting is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats faced by organizations globally. Companies are seeking skilled professionals to protect their data and infrastructure, leading to high demand for cybersecurity talent across various industries, executive recruiters tell Hunt Scanlon Media. This competitive landscape has resulted in rising salaries and benefits for cybersecurity roles, making it a lucrative field for job seekers.
“The cybersecurity recruiting landscape is undergoing an unprecedented surge, fueled by a wave of activity across various sectors in both enterprise and cybersecurity domains,” said Jason Slattery, a founding partner at Daversa Partners, in a recent interview with Hunt Scanlon Media. “This growth, driven by venture-backed and strong private equity investments, creates a dynamic ecosystem rich with opportunities at every stage of development.”
“We’re witnessing a range of innovations—from cutting-edge platforms to advanced tools and enterprise-grade solutions,” he said. “Product-led growth (PLG) strategies are also emerging, presenting new avenues for talent acquisition in this rapidly changing market. A significant focus is on managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security service providers (MSSPs), which are redefining the landscape by offering vital cyber defense mechanisms against evolving threats.”
The demand for cybersecurity professionals is not just a passing trend; it reflects the critical importance of security in today’s digital age, according to Mr. Flattery. Recent data indicates that the volume of search activity in cybersecurity has skyrocketed by 150 percent compared to last year. “This surge highlights a growing awareness of cyber threats and an urgent need for skilled professionals who can navigate the complexities of protecting sensitive information,” Mr. Flattery said.
Businesses Increasingly Prioritizing Cybersecurity
“As businesses increasingly prioritize cybersecurity, innovative and effective recruitment strategies have never been more essential,” Mr. Flattery says. “Organizations are on the lookout for talented individuals who can enhance their defenses, making the infusion of talent crucial for fostering growth and ensuring that enterprises are prepared for the challenges of the digital landscape.”
Jason Slattery joined Daversa Partners in 2000 and serves as one of the founding partners of the firm’s enterprise software and technology practice. He is the firm’s preeminent go-to-market partner for cyber-focused companies and venture capital firms building next-generation cybersecurity companies across the globe, having completed extensive work up and down the software stack. Some of his notable past work includes Okta, Abnormal Security, HUMAN, Pindrop, Censys, SentinelOne, and Swimlane.
Though Mr. Flattery would argue that the landscape has shifted, he notes that there is certainly no deficit of seasoned cybersecurity leaders. “In particular, venture-backed tech companies have a wealth of experienced executives ready to step in,” he said. “However, when we look at the broader market—from Fortune 500 to Fortune 5000—the picture becomes more complex. We are witnessing an exodus of established chief information security officers (CISOs) who are seeking new avenues rather than remaining in traditional roles. This transition has created a noticeable gap, especially as organizations grapple with the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. The vacuum left by these seasoned leaders is significant, and there is a pressing need for a new wave of skilled CISOs who can navigate today’s ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.”
Mr. Flattery explains that the challenge is not just about filling roles, but rather cultivating the next generation of cybersecurity leaders—those innovative thinkers who can steer organizations through uncharted waters and advance their strategic security initiatives. “As more seasoned professionals retire or move on, it’s imperative that we invest in developing talent that is not only capable but also hungry and adaptable in this fast-paced environment,” he added.
Related: The Hunt for Cyber Technology Leaders Heats Up as Risks Multiply
When Mr. Flattery speaks with individuals outside the realm of cybersecurity—especially those from a go-to-market perspective on the venture side—he often encounters a common hesitation: the belief that without an established network of CISOs, breaking into this field can feel like an uphill battle. “Many aspiring marketers, sellers, or product developers see the CISO organization as the Holy Grail of their customer base but fear that their lack of connections puts them at a severe disadvantage,” he said. “This networking barrier forms a significant psychological hurdle that discourages talented individuals from seizing opportunities in cyber.”
The Complexity of the Cybersecurity Landscape
“Additionally, the complexity of the cybersecurity landscape cannot be overstated,” Mr. Flattery says. “For those intrigued by the field, it can be challenging to discern whether a company’s solution has sustainable viability. With phrases like “building to stack into a platform” becoming commonplace, newcomers find themselves asking critical questions: How does this solution fit into the bigger picture? What sets this company apart from heavyweights like Palo Alto or CrowdStrike?”
Heightened Demand for Cybersecurity Leaders Keeps Executive Recruiters Busy
Increasingly, organizations of all sizes are awakening to the perils posed by cyberattacks. For years, many groups tried to ignore the problem, dismissing cybersecurity as a concern only for the biggest, most high-profile entities, be they government or corporate. These days, more groups are coming to understand how ruinous such intrusions could be and cyberattacks show no signs of abating.
Navigating such uncertainty from an outsider’s perspective can be overwhelming, causing talented individuals to hesitate rather than dive in, Mr. Flattery explains. “Yet, we must remember that this landscape is also rich with potential,” he said. “For those willing to take the leap, seek mentorship, and build their networks, the rewards are not just financial—they are intellectually stimulating, fulfilling, and immensely impactful. The cybersecurity field is in desperate need of fresh perspectives and diverse talent to challenge the status quo. Embracing this complexity is not just a hurdle to overcome; it’s an invitation to forge a meaningful journey in one of the most critical industries of our time.”
Hunt Scanlon Media also asked Mr. Flattery what he looks for when recruiting cyber/AI executives. “I look for intellectual horsepower and adaptability,” he said. “As organizations navigate the complexities of integrating AI into cybersecurity, it’s essential to find executives who can innovate amidst uncertainty. The ideal candidate must fuse raw intellect with a passion for continuous learning, adapting their grasp of the ideal customer profile (ICP) as the landscape shifts. This combination of knowledge and agility will position them as future leaders in the field, making these qualities not just desirable, but essential for success.”
Daversa Partners was founded in 1993. Its global footprint spans two continents and eight offices, giving its teams visibility into the entirety of the market. Daversa is dedicated to developing meaningful relationships with entrepreneurs, executives, and investors across consumer and enterprise businesses. In addition to its primary location in Westport, Conn., the firm has offices in New York; San Francisco; Washington, D.C.; Orlando, FL; London; and Waterford, Conn. where the firm maintains a data and people analytics facility.
Related: Compensation for Cybersecurity Leaders is on the Rise
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media