The Talent Challenge: What Critical Infrastructure Operators Must Know About Cybersecurity Recruitment

Hong Kong SAR’s cybersecurity landscape has entered a new era following the passage of its first comprehensive law focused on critical infrastructure. For operators in sectors like energy, finance, healthcare, telecom, and transport, the challenge is no longer simply about protecting systems, it’s about building the right team to meet evolving regulatory, business, and risk requirements.

Why Talent Is the Cornerstone of Compliance

With strict legal obligations under the new regime, companies can no longer afford gaps in cyber expertise. Penalties for non-compliance and reputational risks from breaches mean that assembling a skilled, knowledgeable team is essential. The right cybersecurity professionals help translate regulatory standards into daily operational practices and incident response plans.

The New Skills Required

Stakeholders must recruit not only technical experts but also talent with proven ability in compliance, cross-sector collaboration, and crisis management. Roles in demand include:

• Cybersecurity Compliance Specialists

• Security Operations Center (SOC) analysts

• Cloud and Application Security Engineers

• Risk Managers with industry certifications (CISSP, CISM, CISA)

Market Trends and Practical Strategies

Competition for talent is surging, especially for candidates familiar with regulated environments. Successful operators benchmark their teams against sector leaders, invest in training, and engage recruitment partners with sector expertise. Many organizations are considering hybrid teams, project-based hires, and managed services to fill urgent gaps.

Building a resilient team is as crucial as investing in technology. For critical infrastructure operators, winning the talent challenge means greater compliance, security, and business continuity. Now is the time to act. Are your teams ready for Hong Kong SAR’s new standards?

If you need advice or assistance shaping your IT and cybersecurity teams, please contact Bonnie Chan – Senior Manager at bonnie.chan@kos-intl.com or direct line: +852 3180 4959 for more details and a confidential discussion.