Global cyber security software and services provider Fortra has joined the UK Cyber Security Council as one of its largest members after a recent re-launch of its membership.

The announcement comes as the Council and ushers in a new wave of relationships between the Council and industry.

The UK Cyber Security Council is a government funded organisation that develops and promotes recognised standards for cyber security in support of the Government’s National Cyber Strategy.

It introduced Chartered Cyber Security Professional status providing recognition and career progression for individuals working in the industry.

UK Cyber Security Council working collaboratively

The UK Cyber Security Council said: “Partnering with organisations like Fortra means we can work more collaboratively with employers and practitioners to address the cyber skills gap and the need for diversity in the sector.

“This is especially important when the UK’s critical national infrastructure is reliant on the cyber security sector thriving. Collaboration also allows the Council to act on the research, work and insights from our members to champion their voices both across the sector and with key stakeholders in government.”

The Cyber Security Skills in the UK Labour Market 2023 report by the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology estimates the current industry skills gap to be 13,000+ every year.

The report also detailed that just 17% of the workforce of those surveyed are female, highlighting the need for more representation and opportunity for women.

Showcase members will collaborate to support the aims of the Council, which includes increasing representation, making cyber security more diverse and accessible, raising professional standards, and helping to widen the talent pool through new recruits, career changers, and retaining the existing workforce.

“If the UK is to reduce its cyber security skills gap and help meet the challenges faced by those working in the industry, then collaboration between employers, industry bodies and government is crucial,” said Darren Gale, Associate VP, Fortra.

“That’s why Fortra is proud to join the UK Cyber Security Council as a showcase member and looks forward to playing its part in helping shape the future of cyber security in the UK.”

Showcase members also support the skills events and webinars run by the Council, providing keynotes and content to highlight routes to and progression within a career in cyber security, as well as ways to promote diversity within the industry.

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