In a security-led IT model, traditional roles like standalone network administrators and basic help desk positions often become redundant, whilst existing roles such as database administrators and network engineers get reimagined to incorporate security responsibilities. Simultaneously, new positions emerge including DevSecOps engineers, security architects, and incident response coordinators that bridge traditional IT functions with cybersecurity expertise.
Organisations worldwide are fundamentally restructuring their IT departments to prioritise cybersecurity above all else. This transformation moves away from traditional hierarchical IT structures where security was often an afterthought or separate department.
| Traditional IT Model | Security-Led IT Model |
|---|---|
| Security as afterthought | Security-first approach |
| Separate IT and security departments | Integrated security across all functions |
| Hierarchical structures | Cross-functional security teams |
In this new model, security considerations influence every technology decision and role within the organisation. Rather than treating cybersecurity as a bolt-on service, companies integrate security thinking into every aspect of their IT operations, from initial planning through to implementation and maintenance.
This shift reflects the reality that cyber threats have evolved beyond what traditional IT structures can effectively handle. Modern organisations recognise that separating IT and security functions creates dangerous gaps that attackers can exploit.
A security-led IT model fundamentally changes how organisations approach technology decisions by putting security-first thinking at the centre of every IT function and process.
Unlike traditional IT structures where functionality and cost-effectiveness drive decisions, security-led models evaluate every technology choice through a security lens first. This means asking “Is this secure?” before “Does this work?” or “Is this cost-effective?”
The principles guiding these models include:
This approach requires every IT professional to understand and implement security practices, regardless of their primary role or specialisation.
Several traditional IT positions face elimination or significant reduction as organisations adopt security-led models, particularly those with narrow specialisations that don’t integrate security thinking.
Roles at risk of redundancy:
Organisations prefer professionals who can identify potential security incidents whilst performing routine maintenance tasks, making single-function roles increasingly obsolete.
Existing IT roles evolve significantly to incorporate security responsibilities, transforming from traditional functions into security-aware positions that serve dual purposes.
| Traditional Role | Security-Integrated Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Database Administrator | Encryption, access controls, data protection, unusual access monitoring |
| Network Engineer | Threat detection, security architecture, suspicious traffic monitoring |
| Project Manager | Security frameworks, risk assessments, security coordination |
| Software Developer | Secure coding, security testing, security-first application design |
These evolved roles require professionals to understand both their traditional expertise and security principles, creating more comprehensive and valuable positions within organisations.
Security-led organisations create entirely new positions that bridge traditional IT functions with cybersecurity expertise, filling gaps that didn’t exist in traditional IT structures.
Emerging security-integrated roles:
These positions represent the evolution of IT roles to meet modern security challenges that traditional structures couldn’t address effectively.
IT professionals can successfully adapt to security-led models by developing security-integrated skills that complement their existing technical expertise.
Preparation strategies:
Database administrators should learn about encryption and access controls, whilst network professionals should understand threat detection and security monitoring. Understanding compliance frameworks, risk assessment processes, and incident response procedures becomes essential across all IT roles.
The transformation to security-led IT models represents a significant opportunity for career growth rather than a threat to existing positions. Professionals who embrace security-integrated thinking position themselves for long-term success in modern organisations.
This shift creates more comprehensive, challenging roles that combine traditional IT skills with security expertise. Rather than eliminating opportunities, security-led models expand the scope and importance of IT positions whilst increasing their strategic value to organisations.
Success in this environment requires adaptability and continuous learning. The most successful professionals view security integration as an enhancement to their existing skills rather than a complete career change.
At Iceberg, we’ve observed this transformation across our global network of cybersecurity and eDiscovery professionals. Organisations increasingly seek candidates who combine traditional IT expertise with security awareness, creating exciting opportunities for professionals ready to embrace this evolution. The future belongs to IT professionals who understand that security isn’t separate from their work—it’s integral to everything they do.
If you are interested in learning more, reach out to our team of experts today.
