Data breach is one of the worst nightmares of organizations, and sadly, it has been on the rise. The increase in data breaches has led to an increased demand for cybersecurity professionals. Organizations worldwide are struggling to find top-tier talent to protect their digital infrastructure, which makes cybersecurity recruiting agencies invaluable.

In recent years, the cybersecurity job market has grown due to rising cyber threats. As a result, companies across industries are prioritizing security hires.  According to the BLS U.S., hiring of information security analysts is expected to grow by 33% between 2023 – 2033, quicker than the average for all professions. Also, according to Cybersecurity Ventures, global cybersecurity job vacancies are projected to reach 3.5 million by 2025. This skills gap underscores the need for dedicated cybersecurity recruiters who can connect businesses with qualified cybersecurity professionals. Recruitment agencies play an important role in addressing this demand by leveraging their networks and industry knowledge.

In this article, we’ll explore what these agencies do, the benefits of partnering with them, and the 10 best recruiters. We’ll also discuss the most in-demand cybersecurity skills, how to choose the right agency and the future trends in cybersecurity hiring.

What Are Cybersecurity Recruitment Agencies?

Cybersecurity recruiting agencies are specialized firms dedicated to sourcing, vetting, and placing top security professionals in cybersecurity roles across different sectors. The agencies focus on hiring experts for critical security positions, such as Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts, Penetration Testers, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), and Cloud Security Architects. They make the hiring process seamless and efficient and ensure that organizations secure the best candidates to mitigate cyber risks effectively. 

Why Should You Use a Cybersecurity Recruitment Agency?

Partnering with a specialized cybersecurity staffing agency comes with many benefits for businesses that want to improve their cybersecurity capabilities. Here are some benefits of working with a hiring provider: 

Expertise in Cybersecurity Roles

Cybersecurity agencies understand the industry trends, the unique qualifications required for various roles, and how to secure the roles. Their expertise ensures that candidates are thoroughly evaluated and matched to the right positions, which reduces the risk of costly hiring mistakes.

A notable case study involves Si Systems utilizing over 20 years of cybersecurity staffing expertise to place top IT professionals at a Federal Crown Agency.  The IT professionals they sourced and placed include a CyberArk Analyst, Business Analyst, and System Administrator. The placement strengthened cybersecurity defenses and ensured resilience against potential attacks that could disrupt the Canadian financial system.

Access to Passive Talent

Many of the best cybersecurity professionals are not actively searching for jobs but possess high-demand skills and are open to new and right opportunities if they come along. However, cybersecurity staffing agencies maintain exclusive talent pipelines and have access to these passive candidates. Some of the ways these agencies maintain exclusive talent pipelines include:

  • Professional Networks: Agencies build relationships with cybersecurity professionals gradually through industry events, conferences, and private networks. The connections help recruiters to identify and engage passive candidates who may not be found in job advertisements.
  • Targeted Outreach Using Technology: Advanced tools like AI and social media analytics help agencies identify passive candidates by tracking subtle indicators of job market interest, such as profile updates on LinkedIn or activity on platforms like GitHub. This allows recruiters to approach these individuals discreetly and strategically.

Streamlined Hiring with Technology

To streamline hiring procedures, cybersecurity staffing agencies use AI-driven applicant sourcing, skill evaluation platforms, and behavioral analytics. AI-powered sourcing tools can scan through a massive database of job applications, social media profiles, and professional networks to identify viable applicants. 

Cybersecurity hiring agencies also leverage AI skills assessment platforms to evaluate candidates’ cybersecurity technical abilities. AI also comes in handy in behavioral analysis to assess candidates’ problem-solving abilities, stress management, and team collaboration skills through psychometric testing and video interviews with emotion recognition.

Confidential and Strategic Hiring

Cybersecurity recruitment often involves sensitive scenarios requiring discretion. Agencies excel at handling confidential executive-level placements or strategic hires. They employ discreet and strategic processes to handle confidential hires or replacements for high-stakes roles like CISOs or cybersecurity leadership positions affected by mergers and acquisitions (M&A). 

For instance, Nexus IT Group Elite successfully placed a new Chief Information Officer (CIO) at a Fortune 500 insurance company.

Top 10 Cybersecurity Recruiting Agencies

Whether you need a cybersecurity compliance officer, penetration testers, or information security analysts, we’ve compiled a list of leading firms that specialize in finding and screening the best individuals. Here is a list of the top 10 cybersecurity staffing agencies, chosen based on industry reputation, client success stories, and placement success rates:

  1. Globy
  2. Elite Cyber Group
  3. LT Harper
  4. Si Systems
  5. Cyber Security Recruitment Specialists
  6. Insight Global
  7. Nexus IT Group
  8. Redbud Cyber
  9. Iceberg
  10. DevsData LLC

We also created a comparison table of the top 10 cybersecurity hiring agencies to make the selection process easier for you. The table highlights key aspects, including industry specialization, geographic focus, key features, year of founding, and ratings.

Agency NameIndustry SpecializationGeographic FocusKey FeaturesYear Founded Ratings
GlobyCybersecurity,
Tech, 
Fintech,
PR & Communications.
EMEA, APAC, North America, LATAM.AI-driven recruitment, 
Candidate vetting,
Cultural fit assessment,
Personalized executive placement.
20224.9/5 on Clutch
Elite Cyber GroupCybersecurity4.6/5 on GlsaadorAI-driven recruitment,
Personalised solution,
Recruitment Outsourcing
Process (RPO) solution,
Extensive network (50,000 + candidates within its network)
2015Cybersecurity
(Software & Information Technology),
Public Sector,
Telecommunications,
Healthcare,
Utilities,
Education,
Transportation,
Financial Services,
Natural Resources Retail,
Engineering & Construction.
LT HarperCybersecurity UK, US, Europe.Diversity,
Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) focused,
Personalised
Service,
Permanent, contingent & executive
recruitment service,
Innovative solution.
2017
Si SystemsPersonalized approach to recruitment,
Offers exceptional service to both job seekers
and employers.
Canada (North America)DEI-focuses,
Flexible solutions (contract & direct hires),
Extensive network (300,000 members).
19944.3/5 On AmbitionBox
Cyber Security Recruitment SpecialistsCybersecurity,
Digital forensics,
E-Discovery.
UKCustomized staffing solutions, Quick placements, 
Offer flexible talent solutions
(contract, contract to perm, or permanent and direct placement).
2015
Insight GlobalDiversity,
Equity and Inclusion (DEI) focused,
Personalised
Service,
Permanent, contingent & executive
recruitment service,
Innovative solution.
Global 3.6/5 on Trustpilot 2001DEI-focused, Proprietary Database of Passive IT Candidates,
Extensive networks of top professionals,
94.89% successful placement ratio,
High candidate satisfaction (94.6%),
Flexible talent solutions
(contract, contract-to-hire, and direct placement).
Nexus IT GroupCybersecurity
(Tech)
North AmericaCultural fit focus, Strategic Consulting
Data-driven insights,
Personalized recruitment solution. 
20104.8/5 on Clutch 
Redbud CyberCybersecurity
(Tech)
USCybersecurity, E-Discovery, Tech & SaaS startups, Banking, 
Government & Defence,
 Legal,
Energy & Utilities.
2014
IcebergCybersecurity (Tech),
Administrative,
Automotive,
Clerical,
Construction,
Creative,
Customer Service,
Education,
Energy,
Engineering,
Financial Services,
Government,
Healthcare,
Hospitality,
Human Resources,
Industrial,
Insurance,
Legal,
Life Sciences,
Logistics,
Manufacturing,
Marketing,
Media & Entertainment,
Nonprofit, Real Estate,Retail,
Sales,Telecom.
GlobalA vast network of 120,000 candidates,
Fast recruitment,
Tailored recruitment solutions.
20164.4/5 on Trustpilot
DevsData LLCCybersecurity
(Tech)
GlobalA vast network of over 65,000 candidates,
Personalized approach to recruitment.
Rigorous interview process.
20175/5on Clutch

Read more: 10 Best EOR Companies for Global Hiring in 2024/25, 8 Best Employee Leasing Companie

Still Struggling To Fill Senior Security Roles In Time?

Globy connects you with pre-vetted cybersecurity experts in just weeks, not months. Stay secure with top-tier global talent.

1. Globy

Globy

Globy specializes in global cybersecurity talent acquisition, placing top-tier professionals across high-growth, security-sensitive industries. Using AI-powered tools and a tailored hiring process, the company delivers candidates who meet strict technical, communication, and cultural standards. Operating in 20+ countries across the US and EU time zones, Globy helps organizations build secure, compliant teams. Its services include AI-led vetting, expert interviews, background checks, and cross-border payroll—ideal for sectors like fintech, SaaS, and Web3.

A notable example is Globy’s work with Every.io, a YC-backed fintech startup. Globy helped the company source and hire senior engineers from Latin America, achieving a 22.7% hiring success rate and reducing costs. This same model supports cybersecurity hiring, where precision, compliance, and speed are critical.

2. Elite Cyber Group

Elite Cyber Group

With over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity recruitment, EliteCyber Group has built a strong reputation for filling high-level cybersecurity roles. Elite Cyber Group offers a personalized cybersecurity recruitment service to meet the specific needs of clients. 

With a network of over 50,000 candidates and the use of AI, EliteCyber Group has successfully helped to lead companies secure top talent.  The cybersecurity staffing agency has worked with industry giants such as Thales and Schneider Electric. Clients value their professional, personalized, and friendly approach to filling complex cybersecurity roles.

3. LT Harper

LT Harper

LT Harper is a recruitment agency that specializes in providing the best cybersecurity professionals across the UK, US, and Europe. The cybersecurity recruiting agency offers personalized services to meet the specific needs of clients. 

LT Harper is recognized for its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the cybersecurity industry. The CERIS-approved ethical recruiters guarantee that clients have access to a diversified talent pool, regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or background.  LT Harper’s dedication to DEI also ensures that hiring decisions are based solely on skills, as they should be. 

4. Si Systems

Si Systems

Si Systems is Canada’s largest IT recruitment agency that offers comprehensive cybersecurity recruitment services, including cybersecurity contracts and direct hire staffing. The agency sources and secures the best cybersecurity professionals across various sectors, including the public sector, financial services, retail, telecommunications, transportation, education, healthcare, engineering, and construction.

Systems has been recognized for two consecutive years for its impact and achievements in improving the workforce solutions industry and pushing the industry forward. Its CEO, Derek Bullen, has been named to the 2024 Staffing 100 North America list

5. Cyber Security Recruitment Specialists

Cyber Security Recruitment Specialists

With over 15 years of experience in the employment sector, Cyber Security Recruitment Specialists has established a strong reputation for excellence in hiring top talent. The agency specializes in placing cyber professionals across various sectors, including cybersecurity, digital forensics, and E-Discovery.

Their team of recruiters has extensive knowledge of each industry, which enables them to match candidates with roles that suit their expertise. With their extensive knowledge of the job market, they also assist candidates in navigating the entire hiring process with confidence. Cyber Security Recruitment Specialists are proud members of the UK Cyber Security Forum and an HMG Crown Commercial Supplier through the G-Cloud Framework.

6. Insight Global

Insight Global

Insight Global is a leading staffing agency renowned for its access to top-tier cybersecurity specialists in enterprise environments. They have a large database of pre-vetted and qualified specialists with niche expertise. In 2024 alone, the agency successfully placed more than 9,400 hires, which showcases how extensive and robust its talent pipeline is. Insight Global offers flexible hiring options, including contract, contract-to-permanent, and direct placement roles, tailored to meet the unique needs of enterprise environments.

The cybersecurity staffing agency is also renowned for its quick placement process and client satisfaction. Insight Global can help you find and hire qualified cybersecurity specialists within two weeks.  In some cases, they have successfully matched clients with ideal candidates in under a week. 

7. Nexus IT Group

Nexus IT Group

With a 94.89% successful placement ratio, Nexus IT Group is a leading cybersecurity recruitment firm in North America, known for its tailored 4-step recruitment process, which includes:

  • Discovery Call: Understand role requirements and build a targeted recruiting strategy.
  • Candidate Engagement: Conduct a multitouch outreach and hold three in-depth calls to assess candidates’ needs and future career interests.
  • Shortlisting & Presentation: Deliver the top 2-3 fully vetted candidates to the IT Security hiring manager.
  • Placement & Follow-Up: Ensure smooth communication during hiring and follow up for two years after placement to see how things are going.

8. Redbud Cyber

Redbud Cyber

Redbud Cyber specializes in connecting organizations with top-tier cybersecurity talent through a consultative and strategic hiring approach. Their process begins with a detailed assessment of the technical requirements and the cultural dynamics of the organization. This is followed by sourcing only the most qualified candidates for the position and coordinating all efforts between presenting, interviewing, and hiring.

A key aspect of Redbud’s methodology is its emphasis on cultural fit. They recognize that aligning a candidate’s values and work style with the organization’s culture is crucial for long-term success. By thoroughly understanding both the client’s environment and the candidate’s aspirations, Redbud ensures placements that are technically proficient and culturally harmonious.

9. Iceberg

Iceberg

Iceberg specializes in connecting top-tier cybersecurity and eDiscovery professionals with leading and innovative global companies. Since 2016, the recruitment agency has built a reputation for speed, precision, and deep industry expertise. 

With an extensive database of 120,000 candidates across 23 countries, Iceberg helps clients hire the best talents without compromising quality or culture. Iceberg’s commitment to excellence has made it a reliable partner for organizations looking for top cybersecurity and eDiscovery talent.

10. DevsData LLC

DevsData LLC

DevsData LLC is another top recruitment firm specializing in cybersecurity recruitment. They use a multi-stage, rigorous recruitment process with an acceptance rate of less than 6.4 % to ensure high-quality placements within 10 days. 

Their rigorous selection process includes a demanding 90-minute technical interview and an algorithmic problem-solving assessment. With over eight years of industry expertise, the company has built an extensive database of more than 65,000 pre-screened IT professionals. The extensive database highlights its commitment to continuous growth and high-quality recruitment services.

What Skills Are Most In-Demand in Cybersecurity Hiring?

As cyber threats grow in complexity, organizations are prioritizing professionals with both technical expertise and leadership abilities to safeguard their digital assets. Below are the critical skills that cybersecurity hiring managers seek:

Threat Intelligence and Incident Response

Organizations need experts who can detect, analyze, and mitigate cyber threats before they cause serious damage. Cyber threat intelligence professionals collect and interpret threat data to prevent attacks, while incident responders swiftly respond to security incidents to contain and remediate security breaches.

The 2021 Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack highlighted the importance of swift incident response. Security professionals had to analyze the DarkSide ransomware, isolate affected systems, and restore operations while minimizing downtime.

Cloud Security and DevSecOps

As businesses migrate to the cloud, there is an increased demand for specialists who can secure cloud environments and integrate security into the DevOps process (DevSecOps). As a result, organizations prioritize certifications like AWS Certified Security – Specialty and Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS). The certifications validate expertise in creating and implementing security solutions within the AWS Cloud and securing Kubernetes clusters and workloads.

Compliance and Risk Management

With governments enforcing stringent cybersecurity regulations, companies must ensure compliance with industry standards. Cybersecurity professionals with expertise in regulatory frameworks like CMMC, HIPAA, GDPR, and ISO 27001 help organizations ensure compliance and mitigate legal penalties. 

Compliance and Risk Management professionals also protect sensitive data and maintain business reputation, as these frameworks define standards for information security and data privacy. For instance, healthcare organizations rely on compliance specialists to safeguard sensitive patient data under HIPAA, while defense contractors adhere to CMMC standards.

Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing

Organizations increasingly rely on ethical hackers to identify vulnerabilities before attackers do. Penetration testers simulate real-world cyberattacks to assess security defenses. An example is the 2022 Uber breach, where an ethical hacker exposed flaws in Uber’s security system.

Leadership and Strategic Security Planning

Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and security leaders are crucial in shaping an organization’s security strategy and business resilience. Their leadership ensures that cybersecurity measures align with business objectives, which fosters a secure and robust operational environment.

For instance, a commercial insurance underwriter faced challenges due to inconsistent cybersecurity measures and a weak security culture. By engaging a virtual CISO (vCISO) service, the company developed a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, which led to a more resilient security posture.

How to Choose the Best Cybersecurity Recruitment Agency?

Finding the right cybersecurity recruitment agency will help you retain the best cybersecurity talents. To ensure you partner with the best agency, consider the following factors:

Assess Industry Specialization

The cybersecurity field requires recruiters with in-depth knowledge of technical and executive roles. When evaluating agencies,  prioritize those with proven experience in recruiting for technical roles (e.g., security analysts, penetration testers) and executive positions (e.g., CISOs, CTOs, CTOs). Also, verify their understanding of emerging threats, compliance frameworks, and certifications like CISSP or CEH.

Check Client Testimonials and Success Rates

A strong track record of successful placements is a good indicator of an agency’s effectiveness. To identify reputable agencies, look for:

  • Client reviews on platforms like G2, Trustpilot, and Clutch
  • Case studies that show successful cybersecurity hires.
  • Metrics on candidate retention rates and time-to-hire.
  • Transparency in sharing past recruitment successes and challenges.

Consider Global Reach and Network Strength

Cybersecurity talent is in high demand worldwide. A recruitment agency with a strong global network can help you access top-tier professionals across different regions. So, evaluate:

  • Whether they have international hiring capabilities.
  • Their connections with cybersecurity professionals in key markets.
  • Their ability to source candidates with niche skills that align with your organization’s needs.

Checklist for Evaluation

  • Industry experience and specialization in cybersecurity roles.
  • Positive client testimonials and high success rates.
  • Global reach and strong professional network..
  • Understanding of compliance and certification requirements.
  • Ability to source candidates with niche skills that align with your organization’s needs.

What are the Future Trends in Cybersecurity Hiring?

Cybersecurity recruitment is rapidly evolving as organizations adapt to emerging threats and workforce dynamics. The trends shaping the future of hiring in this field include:

AI and Automation in Cybersecurity Hiring

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the hiring process through automated resume screening, skills assessments, and predictive and behavioral analytics to identify top candidates. AI-driven tools help organizations streamline recruitment and improve candidate assessments. Companies leveraging AI in recruitment are seeing reduced hiring time and minimized human bias in decision-making.

The Shift to Remote Cybersecurity Teams

Organizations are expanding remote hiring strategies to access talent globally as the demand for cybersecurity professionals rises and competent workers become scarce. Leading companies such as Microsoft have successfully implemented remote cybersecurity teams to bridge talent gaps. Microsoft has demonstrated leadership in remote cybersecurity through its Microsoft Teams platform.

Remote hiring allows businesses to attract experts from diverse geographic locations, which offers flexible work arrangements that enhance productivity and job satisfaction. Additionally, cloud-based security operations centers (SOCs) enable teams to collaborate efficiently from anywhere.

Diversity and Inclusion in Cybersecurity Recruitment

Efforts to increase diversity in cybersecurity recruiting are gaining momentum, with organizations implementing initiatives to attract more women and underrepresented minorities. Programs such as Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) and Cyber Diversity programs provide mentorship and training opportunities to bridge the representation gap. Companies are also reevaluating their hiring practices by focusing on skills-based assessments rather than traditional academic qualifications to foster a more inclusive workforce.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity recruiting agencies are essential in helping organizations secure top talent in an increasingly complex threat landscape. Businesses looking to strengthen their cybersecurity teams should evaluate their hiring needs and consider partnering with one of the top agencies listed above.

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Read more: 18 Best Remote Staffing Agencies for Hiring Remote Workers, 10 Best International PEO Companies

FAQs

On average, hiring a cybersecurity professional takes between 3 and 6 months. But senior roles or specialized positions may take longer. Factors that influence timelines include talent availability, role complexity, screening processes, and decision-making speed.

Recruitment agencies typically charge fees based on two common models:

  • Contingency Fees: These fees range from 15% to 30% of the candidate’s first-year salary and are paid only upon a successful placement.
  • Retained Search Fees: Usually between 25% to 35% of the candidate’s first-year salary, these fees are paid in installments for executive or specialized roles.

Yes. Many agencies can provide contract-based or project-specific cybersecurity hiring solutions. They provide interim talent for specific projects or skill gaps, with costs tied to project duration. They can also provide temporary staffing to fill gaps until permanent hires are made, which is ideal for urgent needs.

Cybersecurity headhunters use rigorous vetting processes to ensure top-quality hires. These may include:

  • Technical assessments (e.g., penetration testing challenges, security audits).
  • Industry certifications verification (CISSP, CISM, CEH, etc.).
  • Behavioral and cultural fit interviews.
  • Background checks (employment history, security clearances).

Cybersecurity recruiters use specialized strategies to engage and find professionals who aren’t actively job hunting (passive candidates). Some of the strategies they use include:

  • Direct outreach via professional networks (LinkedIn, security forums).
  • Targeted events and conferences (Black Hat, DEF CON, etc.).
  • Referral networks within the cybersecurity community.
Author avatar
Article author
Vit Koval
Co-founder at Globy
A top Global Hiring voice on LinkedIn, co-founder of Globy, and host of Default Global. Using deep expertise in global hiring, remote work, and global business expansion to help companies excel worldwide with innovative strategies.