CyberNorth launches Influencing the Influencer to boost female representation in cyber-security
Back row - front row Thea Scott, Head of Relationships and Engagement, CyberNorth, CyberNorth Board Member, Caroline Churchill, CEO CyberNorth Danielle Phillips, CyberNorth Chair, Annabel Berry
CyberNorth has secured funding from Innovate UK to launch Influencing the Influencer, a project aimed at increasing the number of women pursuing careers in cyber-security.
The initiative will provide careers advisors and computer science teachers with resources to guide young women toward opportunities in the sector.
Women currently account for only 17% of cybersecurity roles in the UK, despite the growing demand for professionals in the field. The project seeks to address this imbalance by improving awareness, access to career pathways, and employer engagement in the North East of England.
Program structure and objectives
Launching in March 2025, the Influencing the Influencer project will develop an online portal containing:
Case studies showcasing women working in cybersecurity.
Information on education and training pathways for careers in the sector.
Details of regional employers offering cybersecurity roles.
CyberNorth will also host continuing professional development (CPD) sessions in Newcastle and Darlington, providing careers advisors and educators with insights into 15 cybersecurity career pathways and the skills required for each.
Danielle Phillips, CEO of CyberNorth, emphasized the need to bridge knowledge gaps in cybersecurity careers:
“We are very excited to launch this project. There are 15 cyber career pathways, but there is still a knowledge gap around the opportunities for young girls and women to enter the sector.
“This program, alongside a range of vital resources, has the support of several senior female leaders in cybersecurity. By sharing their experiences as part of the campaign, we hope to inspire and support the next generation of cybersecurity professionals in the region.”
Industry leaders share their stories
The initiative will also highlight the contributions of women already making an impact in cybersecurity.
Among them is Mads Howard, Manager in the Office of the CISO at Sage, who was recently awarded an MBE in the UK Honours List for her work in cybersecurity and advocacy for gender diversity in technology.
Phillips stressed that increasing diversity is not only an equality issue but also necessary for addressing workforce shortages:
“The statistics are clear—female representation in cybersecurity remains low, and increasing diversity is critical for building stronger teams. But information is key, and this project will equip careers advisors and teachers with the tools they need to guide students.
“Closing the gender gap in cybersecurity is not just about equality; it is essential for addressing the skills shortage in the industry. There are many women making an impact in this field, and it is crucial that young girls hear these stories and are encouraged to consider cybersecurity careers.”
How to get involved
Careers advisors and teachers can register for the initiative at CyberNorth’s website.
Businesses in the North East interested in connecting with participants can reach out through CyberNorth’s contact channels.
