Elevate project management with cyber security skills
In a context defined by evolving technologies, the role of a project manager will be more dynamic and demanding than ever.
The NCSC report that “AI will almost certainly increase the volume and heighten the impact of cyber-attacks over the next two years”.
According to QA’s Portfolio Director for Cyber Security, Richard Beck, “This means it's crucial for project managers to expand their skill sets beyond traditional project management, to protect against cyber threats, and facilitate safe and secure adoption of AI.”
The rise of the security-skilled project manager
Project management in cybersecurity involves overseeing crucial projects that enhance security and business resilience while advancing change. We caught up with Richard to unpack how integrating cyber skills into the project profession can help take both functions to the next level.
Risk awareness and management
Risk management is a core responsibility of project managers. Incorporating security skills will allow them to identify and assess cyber risks more effectively.
The rise in cyberattacks threatens projects across all industries. Project managers should be aware of these security threats and understand how to mitigate them. “Projects managers equipped with security skills can proactively address potential vulnerabilities and protect their projects from being compromised,” explains Richard.
This holistic approach to risk management ensures that all potential threats, including those related to cybersecurity, are accounted for, and mitigated.
Jackie Hewett, QA Project & Programme management lead agrees that “Good risk management is essential for project managers, and with businesses and projects evermore dependent on tech having an understanding of cyber security is essential. It could have helped prevent the CrowdStrike IT outages that occurred in July 2024.”
Integration and communication
Understanding security principles enables project managers to make more informed decisions and ask the right questions. This includes better evaluating the security implications of project choices, from selecting vendors to implementing technologies, leading to more robust and secure project outcomes.
Security skills bridge the gap between project managers and IT or security teams. With a foundational understanding of cybersecurity, project managers can communicate and collaborate more effectively with these teams, ensuring that security measures are integrated smoothly into the project lifecycle.
That’s not to mention the value of understanding why we embed security early into the development lifecycle, ensuring secure by design processes.
Regulatory peace of mind
Many projects must adhere to strict regulatory and compliance standards, especially in industries like finance, healthcare, and government.
Project managers with security expertise can ensure that their projects meet these requirements, avoiding costly penalties and enhancing the project’s credibility.
Richard Beck’s top 5 benefits of cybersecurity skills for project management:
- Maximised project outcomes: Apply project management skills to develop robust cybersecurity secure by design processes, ensuring projects yield secure results.
- Efficient collaboration: Bridge the gap between technical experts and project teams through effective communication. Lead your security project team with confidence and credibility.
- Risk mitigation: Introduce a cyber security risk champion, to foresee potential threats, and take proactive measures to shield your projects.
- Continuous learning: A solid foundation in key security concepts can empower project professionals to evolve in a changing field.
- Investing in talent through certification: Validate cyber skills within project management with certifications. An industry recognised badge of expertise will not only bolster skills and elevate careers, but improve employee retention and future growth.
Take it from Richard: “Incorporating security skills into project management is no longer optional – it's essential.”
By understanding and addressing cybersecurity risks, project managers can ensure the success and safety of their projects, foster better communication with technical teams, and build stronger relationships with stakeholders. “In 2024 and beyond, security-savvy project managers will be better equipped to lead their projects to success.”
Ready to inject cyber security skills into your project management team? Check out our range of cyber security learning and certifications.
