Cyber security CV template (text format)

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Cyber security specialist with 8+ years of experience working with large organisations. Skilled in threat detection, penetration testing, and compliance management, with a record of reducing risks and strengthening defences. Adept at collaborating with teams and advising stakeholders to deliver cost-effective, secure solutions that protect business operations.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Cyber Security Compliance Lead
Bay Systems LTD., Morecambe, Jan 20XX-Present

  • Work with 7 senior cyber security engineers to complete company projects and develop policies & procedures for 1500 end-users
  • Discovered 350+ new viruses and hidden malware while managing database of over 150K users, resulting in secure execution of daily operations
  • Maintain data security by regularly conducting threat analysis alongside identifying and mitigating potential threats
  • Performed network and security system audits, using company-defined criteria

Cyber Security Specialist
Oscar Technology, Lincoln, Jan 20XX–Dec 20XX

  • Managed a project to reduce malware threats by 80% using ad blockers, switching users to Google Chrome, and implementing automatic updates
  • Used Juniper to secure 170+ websites and endure potential attacks for two years
  • Facilitated clients with low budgets by finding cost-effective methods to minimise security risks
  • Trained 450+ employees in cyber security best practices, lower risk of cyber-attacks by 23%

EDUCATION

University of Oxford (20XX-20XX)
MSc Computer Science, Distinction

University of Warwick (20XX-20XX)
BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security (upper second-class honours)

KEY SKILLS

  • CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional — ISC (20XX)
  • CISM: Certified Information Security Manager — ISACA (20XX)
  • JNCIE-SEC: Security, Expert — Juniper (20XX)
  • Cisco Meraki Solutions Specialist — Cisco (20XX)

How to write a great cyber security CV

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Given the UK’s growing cyber security skills gap, demand for professionals with the know-how to prevent digital is at an all-time high.

But cyber security is also a highly competitive field, and you’ll need to write a compelling CV for the best employers to take you on board.

Here are a few tips to help you optimise your CV and maximise your chances of getting hired.

1. Include the right cyber security skills

In order to protect computer networks, personal data, and other important digital assets, cyber security specialists need a wide range of job-relevant hard skills.

Some of the most important hard skills for cyber security include:

  • Network security
  • IT security
  • Web security
  • Information security
  • Cybersecurity risk management
  • Cybersecurity controls and procedures
  • Data security
  • Security incident response

Ensure you include specific technologies and methodologies within your cyber security CV. Fail to do so and you’re unlikely to be approached by recruiters or have your application taken through to the interview stage. Why? Firstly, because it needs to be searchable. And secondly, if someone non-technical is reviewing your CV against a list of keywords they’ve been given, they might think you aren’t qualified for the role when you are! – Matt Collingwood, Managing Director at VIQU IT Recruitment

2. Demonstrate any highly relevant certifications

Make sure your essential certifications are easy for the employer to locate by including them in your personal statement, work experience, or a separate certifications section.

There are several valuable industry-related certifications:

  • Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
  • Certified Professional (CCP) scheme
  • Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)
  • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification
  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • Cloud Security
  • Cyber Incident, Planning and Response (CIPR)
  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

3. Use the right keywords for your cyber security CV

The right keywords will catch the employer’s eye and show them that you have the right knowledge for the job. It’ll also improve the ATS compatibility of your CV.

Some of the most common cyber security keywords include:

  • Cyber security
  • Information security
  • IT security
  • Network security
  • Data security
  • Security risk management
  • Security controls and procedures
  • Security incident response

Remember, it’s always best to read the job description thoroughly to identify which keywords are best to use.

Need more ideas?

Our library of CV examples has hundreds of tailored CVs you can use to fine-tune your job application and stand out from other applicants.

Cyber security job outlook in 2026 — things to know

According to the UK Earnings Explorer provided by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), cyber security specialists in the UK earn an average annual salary of £20,798.

Additionally, there are similar pay levels for both men and women in this type of role.

Data source: The Office for National Statistics, an agency of His Majesty’s Government. The information contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0 and reflects the ONS’s most recent salary (1/11/2023), gender pay gap (4/2023), and skills shortage data (6/2022).


Nathan Soto
Written by

Nathan Soto

A CV expert & career counsellor, Nathan Soto helps job seekers with practical career advice, especially those following nontraditional career paths. Nathan graduated with a double-honours BA in French and Music, specialising in percussion. As well as providing career and CV-writing advice, he also works as a Mandarin–English translator and English language instructor. In his free time, he enjoys learning new languages.