Corporate Member

In today’s digital age, and as cyber threats continue to evolve, the demand for skilled cyber security professionals is at an all-time high. Businesses are becoming increasingly reliant on digital infrastructure and therefore, as awareness of cyber threats grow, organisations are recognising the critical need to protect their digital assets and data, leading to a surge in cyber security job roles. This heightened understanding is mainly due to the increasing frequency and complexity of cyber attacks, which can have devastating financial and reputational impacts.

One factor that is playing into this increased complexity of attacks is artificial intelligence (AI). The development of AI, although enabling us to improve our current security measures, will also allow the methods of cyber attack to become more sophisticated, which therefore increases the risk. For instance, we could start seeing personalised phishing emails and impersonated voices on phishing phone calls. Consequently, businesses are investing more in cyber security measures, creating a demand for professionals skilled in this area.

At Vodafone, we offer a range of opportunities for those looking to kickstart their careers in technology and cyber security. Vodafone is a global technology communications company that empowers people and businesses to stay connected and thrive in a digital world. With a focus on innovation, sustainability and earning customer loyalty, we leverage cutting-edge technology to offer products and services that enhance communication and improve lives. Additionally, Vodafone is certified as a Great Place to Work, as we strive to create a workplace that is fully representative of the communities and customers we serve.

Vodafone has cyber security roles across its UK and Global organisation, at all levels of experience, including early career routes such as entry-level positions, apprenticeships and graduated programmes. All of these pathways, which this blog will explore further, are designed to provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience, allowing you to make a real impact with your work.

Entry-Level Positions

Entry-level roles can be found on the Careers page of our website all-year round and are perfect for those who already have some experience or relevant qualifications. These roles provide an excellent starting point for a career in the field, with opportunities for progression and development.

Graduate Programmes

Although there isn’t a specific cyber security graduate programme within Vodafone, there is crossover between some of the other programmes into the cyber security world. Firstly, within the Technology programme in Vodafone Group you can complete a 12-month placement in Cyber Security. The type of role you could have during this rotation includes Cyber Defence, Security Consultancy and Engineering, Ethical Hacking, Incident Management support, Vulnerability Management and Security Architecture.

Alternatively, you could be on one of the wider business programmes but still have links to, and work within, cyber security. For example, those on Vodafone UK’s Discover Business Graduate Scheme could complete a placement within Vodafone Business Security Enhanced (VBSE) in Marketing and Propositions.

Apprenticeships

Despite there already being an early careers programme available for wider business functions within Vodafone, Vodafone Business Security Enhanced (VBSE), a specialist unit that sits within Vodafone, is launching a new apprenticeship scheme focused on cyber security. With almost 30 years of industry experience, VBSE is a dedicated cyber security partner; defending and supporting the UK’s critical national infrastructure, the public sector, Government, defence and large corporate enterprises.

The VBSE apprenticeships will last 2 or 3 years, depending on whether you are completing the Level 4 (L4) or the Level 6 (L6). The programme is a chance to gain a qualification fully funded by us, whilst gaining valuable work experience in that area. You will either complete the Level 4 Cyber Security Technologist qualification, or the L6 Digital Technology Solutions Degree – Cyber Security pathway.

You will have one role for the duration of the programme working in one of the following positions: Customer Account Security Management, IP Network Analyst, Service Desk Advisor or SOC Analyst. You can find out more about these roles through the Apprenticeship page on our website. All of the roles will be based in our VBSE office located in Farnborough, although you will be allocated 20% of your time for studying towards your certificate.

Find out more.

Throughout the apprenticeship, you'll have full support from your teams and a dedicated learning coach to ensure your success. Vodafone has over 35 years of public sector experience and you will have the chance to learn from, and work with, our security and technical experts. Once you have successfully completed the apprenticeship and have your qualification, we will continue to support your career journey within VBSE.

Applications for the new VBSE Apprenticeships are now open and you can apply via the link above. Applications will close before Christmas, and even earlier if we receive game-changing applications, so make sure to apply soon! Assessment centres will take place in January, before the programme starts in September.

Join Vodafone Business Security Enhanced and strengthen the cyber security of the UK's Critical National Infrastructure and public sector organisations.