The information security sector continues to evolve rapidly, with organisations and individuals forced to frequently re-evaluate their understanding of security threats and how to manage them.

One trusted way to ensure professionals are equipped to manage these threats is to look for the CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) qualification.

It’s one of the most widely recognised and respected credentials in the field and has often been cited as a proven pathway to senior roles in information security.

But does this qualification still hold its value today? Let’s take a look at how CISM stacks up in terms of career progression, salary, employer demand and professional credibility – and whether it’s the right investment for your future.

Career paths for CISM candidates

If you are considering a CISM training course, the chances are that you come from a technical background and have a strong understanding of the practicalities of information security.

These technical skills can take you far, but a CISM qualification is designed for those looking to move towards a management role.

CISM training complements your existing knowledge and equips you with the skills to design and oversee enterprise-wide security programmes. You’ll also enhance your understanding of information security governance, risk management and incident management.

Together, these skillsets ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to protect an organisation’s information assets while supporting broader business goals. And these skills are just as valuable – if not more so – than they have ever been.

Indeed, CISM is frequently listed as a preferred or required qualification for senior information security positions such as:

• Chief information security officer;
• Information security director;
• IT security manager;
• Security programme manager; and
• Information security strategist.

These roles sit at the intersection of technology, business, and risk management – and CISM provides the framework to navigate that space effectively.

CISM salaries

Any qualification that advances your career should also advance your earning potential, and CISM is no exception.

According to PayScale data, the average annual salary for a CISM-certified professional in the UK is around £63,000, with senior roles in regulated sectors such as finance or defence often exceeding £70,000–£80,000.

This premium reflects how valuable organisations find professionals who can link technical security operations with governance and business strategy.

CISM consistently ranks among the top-paying IT certifications globally. For comparison, salaries for professionals holding other well-known management-level certifications – such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or ISO 27001 Lead Implementer – typically fall in a similar or slightly lower range, depending on sector and seniority.

Employer demand

The strong salary figures mirror another reality: CISM-certified professionals are in short supply. CISM’s emphasis on governance, risk and compliance makes it particularly valuable in industries subject to tight regulatory oversight.

Meanwhile, organisations across sectors – from finance and healthcare to government, defence and consulting – are actively seeking professionals who can bridge the gap between technical teams and executive decision-making.

Employers are looking for security leaders who can:

• Align security initiatives with business objectives;
• Communicate effectively with executive leadership;
• Develop comprehensive security strategies;
• Manage teams and budgets efficiently; and
• Balance security requirements with operational needs.

In short, CISM-certified professionals speak both the language of security and the language of business – a rare combination that drives demand and keeps salaries high.

Credibility and recognition

Beyond employability and pay, CISM offers something less tangible but equally important: credibility. The certification was developed by ISACA, the widely respected international professional information security association.

Holding an ISACA certification demonstrates to employers that you have both the experience and commitment required to manage information security at an enterprise level.

ISACA’s prerequisites ensure that credibility is earned, not assumed. To become CISM-certified, candidates must:

• Accumulate five years of relevant work experience (including three in management);
• Pass the CISM examination;
• Submit an application with verified experience;
• Adhere to ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics; and
• Maintain certification through ongoing Continuing Professional Education.

ISACA’s professional community also adds value. With over 135,000 members across more than 200 chapters worldwide, certification holders gain access to a powerful global network of peers, conferences, and continuous learning opportunities – all of which help maintain relevance in a fast-changing industry.

Cost and employer support

The financial investment for CISM typically falls between £1,500 and £3,000, covering training courses, exam fees, and study materials.

However, it’s worth noting that many employers fund or reimburse CISM training, particularly for employees moving into managerial or governance-focused roles. ISACA also provides guidance and flexible exam scheduling options to make the process more accessible.

Given that most certified professionals see a measurable career and salary benefit within one to two years, the cost is often considered a worthwhile professional investment – especially with employer support.

So, is CISM worth it?

For professionals aiming to move beyond hands-on technical roles into strategic leadership positions, CISM remains one of the most valuable certifications in cyber security. It delivers a rare combination of benefits: a substantial salary uplift, global recognition and enhanced credibility.

Completing a comprehensive CISM training programme helps candidates build leadership, communication, and governance skills that distinguish effective cyber security managers from purely technical specialists. These are the same qualities employers now prioritise when hiring for senior security roles.

If you’re ready to move into senior information security management, the best way to start is by preparing effectively for certification. And IT Governance is here to help.

Our CISM Training Course is a four-day, expert-led programme designed to help you build the knowledge and confidence you need to pass the exam.

You’ll receive a structured review of all four CISM domains, with practical guidance and revision exercises to reinforce key concepts.

Plus you can learn your way, with a choice of online or in-person sessions at one of our UK training venues.