Artificial intelligence is reshaping how cyber threats are created and defended against. For hiring managers and project leaders in the UK, this means recruitment no longer centres solely on traditional security skills. Today’s cybersecurity professionals must understand AI’s dual role, both as a powerful tool for defence and a sophisticated weapon in the hands of attackers. Finding the right talent with these capabilities has become one of the most pressing challenges in building resilient security teams.
AI-powered attacks can adapt and learn from defences in real time. To counter this, organisations need specialists who combine cybersecurity knowledge with a strong grasp of machine learning and data analytics. These professionals are skilled at interpreting complex threat patterns and designing systems that can predict and prevent breaches before they happen. This shift means that the traditional boundaries between cybersecurity, data science and AI research are blurring.
In addition to technical skills, leadership qualities are crucial. Teams require leaders who think strategically about emerging threats and can translate complex AI-driven risks into clear actions across the business. These leaders must also manage diverse teams with agility and foster a culture of continuous learning.
The demand for cybersecurity talent with AI expertise far exceeds supply. UK hiring managers often face long lead times and fierce competition for candidates. Rigid job descriptions and overemphasis on specific certifications can exclude strong candidates with non-traditional backgrounds.
One solution is to broaden hiring criteria to include professionals with adjacent skills who are willing to upskill. Another is to integrate contract specialists for short-term projects such as AI-driven threat detection initiatives or rapid incident response. This approach provides flexibility and access to niche expertise without the long-term commitment.
Fostering ongoing training programmes within existing teams also helps build resilience, enabling staff to keep pace with rapid technological change.
Working with a specialist recruitment partner who understands both cybersecurity and AI can make a significant difference. Partners like Malikshaw offer access to a carefully vetted talent pool combining deep security knowledge with AI skills. They provide insights on current market salary expectations and candidate motivations, helping clients build competitive offers.
Moreover, recruitment experts can advise on workforce models tailored to your organisation’s needs, whether that means building a stable core of permanent staff or flexibly scaling with contract professionals during key projects.
They also support employer branding efforts to attract high-demand candidates by highlighting your organisation’s commitment to innovation and development.
For example, Malikshaw recently helped a UK government agency recruit a lead cybersecurity analyst with AI and machine learning expertise. This hire strengthened their threat detection capability and improved response times to emerging attacks. Meanwhile, another client used contract AI security specialists placed by Malikshaw to support a cloud migration project, ensuring secure integration without overstretching permanent resources.
Cybersecurity talent is evolving. AI is no longer a distant concern but a factor reshaping the skills needed to protect your organisation. Hiring managers and project leaders who adapt their recruitment strategies today will build teams ready for the challenges of tomorrow.
If you want to discuss how to attract and retain cybersecurity professionals with AI expertise, get in touch with Malikshaw. Together we can develop a talent strategy that keeps your security one step ahead.
