With work still to be done to boost diversity and inclusion in cyber security, KPMG UK’s Katie Diacon unpacks where some of the challenges exist, and what could make a difference.
Cyber security is one of the most innovative and dynamic sectors to work in, and it is increasingly vital to the operational resilience of organisations. Katie Diacon, Director, TMT Cyber Security, KPMG in the UK, says success in the sector requires “a great combination of teamwork, and trying to stay one step ahead of the attackers”. Her view is that the best results come from bringing people together who have diverse life experiences, leading to richer insights and innovative solutions.
“It is the very best of technology and people, combined with new opportunities and ideas being explored all the time,” she says.
However, KPMG’s new report, ‘Decrypting Diversity, Diversity and Inclusion in Cyber Security, 2021’ found that the sector is not as diverse as it could be – particularly when it comes to gender and ethnic minorities. There is also improvement to be made in inclusivity and preventing discrimination. Diacon says this can be a disadvantage for employees, organisations and the industry – but is something that everyone can help to change.
Diversity needs support
KPMG surveyed over 900 industry participants and found that 36% were female, 25% reported having a disability, 15% were from ethnic minorities, 6% were ethnic minority females, 10% were LGB (lesbian, gay, bisexual), and 1% were trans and non-binary. While some of these results align to broader population statistics, Diacon notes that the lower rate of females in the industry is particularly disappointing. She says it can reflect the pressures of the sector and the ongoing challenge of balancing work with family lif ..
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