What Is an Information Security Manager and How to Become One
Table of Contents
What Is an Information Security Manager?
The job duties of an information security manager involve overseeing the effort to protect networks, computers, and data from cyber attacks, viruses, and other security breaches. In this career, your responsibilities include creating IT security features that can protect your company’s data. In addition to building systems to protect against hacking, you must also be ready to lead the response when a security breach occurs. As an information security manager, you are responsible for creating and implementing practices and policies that employees can use to protect their employer's networks and data.
How Do you Become an Information Security Manager?
The qualifications that you need to become an information security manager include both educational degrees and job experience. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or computer programming. You may choose to pursue a master’s degree in information technology or get professional certification to improve your job prospects. The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium has an accreditation option that allows you to become a Certified Information Systems Security Professional. Most employers expect management level security personnel to have five years of IT experience and previous management experience.
What Are Skills of a Successful Information Security Manager?
The skills that you need to be a successful information security manager include both technical knowledge and management skills. You need to be up to date on the latest computer and data security threats, and you must have enough understanding of the technical aspects of these threats to adjust your practices if needed. You should have strong management instincts and be able to lead a team of security experts while making use of each team member's skills and abilities.
Information Security Manager Job Description Sample
With this Information Security Manager job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Information Security Manager role.
Job Summary
We have an immediate opening for an Information Security Manager. In this role, you will develop risk management processes and oversee the implementation of these new policies. On a regular basis, you will analyze our databases and other information applications to identify potential security risks and determine how to best address these threats. Our ideal candidate understands regulatory requirements, has in-depth knowledge of industry standards and trends, and is proficient with the latest cybersecurity software.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Analyze information databases and applications for potential security risks
- Develop new or enhance current security procedures to reduce or eliminate potential threats
- Oversee implementation of new policies and procedures
- Monitor security system to identify new threats or needs for updates
- Train employees on security awareness and new procedures
Requirements and Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree in computer science, information security, or a related field; master's degree a plus
- 5+ years of experience in application security, information risks, and developing security threat solutions
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements related to handling information, including SOX, HIPAA, and Payment Card Industry/Data Security Standard (PCI)
- Proficiency with firewalls, endpoint security, mobility management, and vulnerability scanning
