The 2025 UK Cybersecurity Specialist Salary Guide
As specialist executive search consultants in the cybersecurity sector, we regularly field questions about cybersecurity jobs salary expectations across the UK market. Whether you’re an employer building your security team or a professional planning your career, understanding cybersecurity salary UK trends is crucial.
Market Overview: What’s Driving Cyber Security Jobs Compensation?
The cybersecurity recruitment landscape has evolved dramatically in 2025, with cyber security pay reaching unprecedented levels across all experience ranges. From entry level cybersecurity salary positions to senior leadership roles, compensation packages reflect the critical shortage of qualified professionals and the increasing sophistication of cyber threats.
Leadership Roles: Where Cybersecurity Jobs Salary Peaks
At the executive level, cybersecurity salary UK figures demonstrate the premium organisations place on security leadership. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) with global or EMEA scope now command £185,000+ annually, while UK-focused CISO positions typically range from £110,000 to £140,000.
Emerging roles like Chief AI Officer (CAIO) represent the highest tier of cyber security pay, with packages reaching £250,000+ as organisations grapple with AI security challenges. Head of AI Security positions, reflecting the growing importance of artificial intelligence governance, typically offer £150,000 to £190,000.
Operational Roles: Information Security Analyst Salary Trends
For mid-level positions, information security analyst salary ranges vary significantly based on experience. Analysts with over five years’ experience typically earn £60,000 to £80,000, while those with less experience can expect £50,000 to £65,000. Security Operations Centre roles, from analysts to senior positions, show strong growth with Senior SOC Analysts earning £60,000 to £75,000.
Regional Variations: Average Salary for Cybersecurity Jobs in London
The average salary for cybersecurity jobs in London typically commands a 10-20% premium over other UK regions, reflecting the concentration of financial services and technology companies in the capital. Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham also show strong compensation levels as regional technology hubs develop.
Contract Opportunities: Daily Rate Expectations
For cybersecurity professionals considering contract work, daily rates have shown impressive growth. Senior security architects can command £700-£1,000 daily, while specialist penetration testers typically achieve £350-£475 depending on their expertise level.
Entry Level Cybersecurity Salary: Building Your Career Foundation
Those starting their cybersecurity journey will find entry level cybersecurity salary opportunities increasingly accessible. Graduate programmes and junior analyst positions typically offer £35,000 to £50,000, with rapid progression potential for high performers. The skills shortage means that motivated entry-level candidates can expect accelerated career development.
Looking Forward: 2025 Market Predictions
As organisations continue to prioritise digital transformation and regulatory compliance, cyber security pay is expected to maintain its upward trajectory. Specialist roles in cloud security, AI governance, and operational technology (OT) security show particular strength.
Ready to explore cybersecurity opportunities or build your security team?
SECURE Recruitment’s expert cyber security recruitment services provide strategic partnerships for organisations across the digital, tech, and cyber sectors. Our executive search specialists understand both the technical requirements and market dynamics driving these compensation trends.
Download our comprehensive 2025 UK Cybersecurity Salary Guide for detailed role-by-role breakdowns, regional comparisons, and market insights that will inform your hiring or career decisions.
