What Does an Information Security Consultant Do: A Day in the Life of an InfoSec Consultant

Key Takeaways

• Information security combines technology with strategy, governance, legal considerations, and communication.
• Information Security Consultants help organizations implement security in their daily operations, rather than merely documenting it on paper.
• Daily work ranges from analyses and research to customer meetings, presentations, and workshops.
• Information security benefits from diverse perspectives. As a result, people from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds, including career changers, can find their place in the field.
• Increasing security requirements for organizations are driving demand for qualified Information Security Consultants.

Breaking the Myth: Information Security Is Only for IT Professionals

When people think of information security, they often picture cyberattacks, firewalls, and complex lines of code. While these topics are certainly part of digital security, they represent only a fraction of the field.

Information security is about protecting information, regardless of whether it is stored in the cloud, printed on paper, discussed in a meeting, or used within a production process.

As a result, Information Security Consultants do much more than work with software, networks, or technical threats. They analyze business processes, translate regulatory requirements into practical measures, develop policies, assess risks, and help organizations prioritize security initiatives effectively.

This work does not require a purely technical background. Different academic disciplines and professional experiences bring valuable perspectives on risks, processes, and business requirements.

Information security thrives on this diversity of perspectives.

Difference: Information Security, IT Security, Cybersecurity & Data Protection

These terms are often used together, and while they are closely related, each focuses on a different aspect of security and privacy. The overview below highlights the key distinctions.

In practice, the boundaries between these areas are not always clear-cut. As a result, Information Security Consultants often work at the intersection of these disciplines, collaborating with technical, legal, and industry-specific experts whenever required.

Information Security is More Important Than Ever

Digitalization creates new opportunities, but it also expands the attack surface for organizations. Cloud platforms, mobile work, connected manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and digital supply chains all introduce new security challenges.

Cyber Risks are on the Rise Worldwide

Information security is becoming increasingly important. Alongside new technologies, the risks facing businesses are also growing. Recent studies show that ransomware was involved in 44% of the security incidents investigated. At the same time, the share of security incidents involving third parties doubled within a single year, increasing from 15% to 30%.[1]

These developments demonstrate that organizations can no longer limit their security efforts to their own IT environments. Today, information security also encompasses business processes, supply chains, external partners, and an organization’s overall resilience.

Information Technology is More Than Just Technology

A key component of modern information security is the area of Information Security Culture & Awareness. Its purpose is to raise employees’ awareness of security risks and support them in adopting security-conscious behavior in their daily work.

This is because technical safeguards alone are not enough. Information security can only be effective if it is understood and put into practice by the people within the organisation.

Regulatory Requirements are Constantly Increasing

Alongside the technical challenges, legal, regulatory and standard-based requirements are also on the rise. Today, organisations are grappling with issues such as:

• NIS2 Directive
• Cyber Resilience Act
• EU AI Act and DORA
• international standards such as ISO/IEC 27001, as well as
• industry-specific requirements such as UNECE R155

Information security is therefore not only becoming increasingly important for businesses, but also opens up a wide range of career development opportunities.

Why a Career as an Information Security Consultant has a Bright Future

Companies are increasingly investing in information security and are looking for experts who can combine technical, organisational and regulatory requirements.

Here’s why a career in information security is a good choice:

• Cyberattacks are on the rise, driving up the demand for security expertise.
• Regulatory requirements are increasing due to NIS-2, CRA, the EU AI Act, DORA, UNECE R155 and other standards.
• The shortage of skilled workers in cyber security remains high, meaning qualified consultants are in great demand.
• Information security affects almost every sector, from manufacturing and the automotive industry to financial services and the public sector.
• The profession combines technology, strategy and consultancy, and offers a varied working environment with significant future relevance.

A Typical Working Day as an Information Security Consultant at EFS Consulting

Information security is about much more than securing IT systems. Accordingly, the responsibilities and day-to-day work of Information Security Consultants at EFS are highly diverse and multifaceted.

There is no such thing as a typical working day. Where you work and what you do depend on the project phase, the client’s situation and the specific objectives. On some days, consultants analyse regulatory requirements, develop concepts or prepare presentations and workshops. Other days are entirely devoted to working with clients, for example during interviews, risk analyses or on-site audit appointments.

Depending on the project, work is carried out from home, in the office or directly at the client’s premises: no day is like the other – and that is precisely what makes the job so varied!

Responsibilities of an Information Security Consultant

Depending on the project, client, and individual area of specialization, different topics may take center stage. There is rarely a single recurring task, making the role both dynamic and varied.

Security Frameworks & Standards

Information security can only be effective in the long term when it is built on a structured foundation. For this reason, Information Security Consultants support organizations in the implementation and continuous improvement of security frameworks and standards, such as an Information Security Management System (ISMS) based on ISO/IEC 27001.

To achieve this, they analyze existing processes, identify areas for improvement, and develop appropriate measures, policies, and security procedures. The goal is to embed information security sustainably within the organization and establish it as an integral part of everyday business operations.

Audits & Assessments

Implementing an ISMS is just the first step. The real question is whether the defined security measures are actually being followed in day-to-day operations. This is where audits and assessments come into play.

Information Security Consultants support organizations on their journey toward ISO/IEC 27001 certification by assisting with the preparation, execution, and follow-up of audits.

To do so, they are often on-site with clients, evaluating the organization’s current state of security. Are confidential documents left unattended on desks, or is a clean desk policy being followed? Is the office printer still configured with the default password “1234,” or has it been secured with a strong password? And what happens in the event of a power outage? Are backup generators available for critical systems to ensure business continuity?

Through these assessments, potential weaknesses can be identified before they become serious issues. In this way, Information Security Consultants help organizations detect risks early, close security gaps, and continuously improve their overall security posture.

Resilient Infrastructure & Business Continuity Management

“What would happen if the power suddenly went out tomorrow?” These are exactly the kinds of questions Information Security Consultants deal with. Power outages, cyberattacks, or disruptions to critical infrastructure can bring business operations to a standstill within a very short time. The widespread power outage in Spain in April 2025 highlighted the importance of preparedness, resilience, and effective emergency response plans.

Through Business Continuity Management (BCM), crisis preparedness, and the design of resilient IT and business processes, Information Security Consultants help organizations ensure that critical operations can continue even in exceptional circumstances. Their goal is to minimize disruptions, maintain business continuity, and enable organizations to restore normal operations as quickly as possible.

Additional Areas of Expertise

• Governance, Risk & Compliance: Roles, responsibilities, risks, and regulatory requirements
• Autonomous Driving & Automotive Cybersecurity Management Systems: Security of connected and automated vehicles, including the implementation of UNECE R155 and ISO/SAE 21434
• Data Management & AI Enablement: Secure use of data and artificial intelligence
• Product Security: Security of digital and connected products throughout their entire lifecycle
• Data Protection & Regulation: Protection of personal data and implementation of regulatory data protection requirements
• Infosec Culture & Awareness: Strengthening security awareness through training, campaigns, and communication initiatives
• Cloud & Data Center: Protection of cloud services, infrastructures, and critical data
• OT & Site Security: Securing production facilities, operational sites, and industrial control systems
• Managed Security Services: Long-term support for organizations in defined security-related activities

How Do You Become an Information Security Consultant?

There are many different paths into information security. Traditional degree programs such as (Business) Information Systems, Cybersecurity and Information Security, or Engineering can provide a solid foundation, but they are not a prerequisite.

At the same time, the field benefits from diverse professional perspectives. As a result, people from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds successfully transition into information security. Many successful Information Security Consultants, for example, have experience in areas such as:

• Business Administration and Management
• Law and Compliance
• Data Protection and Privacy
• IT Infrastructure or System Administration
• Quality, Process, or Risk Management
• Communications and Organizational Development

What matters most is not having perfect prior knowledge, but rather an interest in security-related topics, strong analytical thinking skills, effective communication abilities, and a willingness to continuously learn and develop.

Career and Development Opportunities at EFS Consulting

At EFS Consulting, you gradually grow into the role of an Information Security Consultant. Many professionals begin their journey as a Project Analyst while still pursuing their studies. However, after completing a degree and gaining relevant practical experience, it is also possible to join directly as a Consultant. The typical career path then progresses through the role of Senior Consultant and onwards into further expert or leadership positions.

New team members receive comprehensive support from day one. A mentor is available to guide their personal career development. In addition, a buddy supports the professional onboarding process within the Information Security team and helps new colleagues quickly familiarize themselves with topics, methodologies, and projects.

Important note: your development is not determined solely by the number of years you have worked. Through mentoring, training opportunities, and a variety of projects, you can continuously expand your expertise and develop a specialized professional focus.

Possible Areas of Specialization

As consultants gain project experience, they can further develop their expertise and focus on specific areas, such as:

• Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)
• Information Security Management Systems (ISMS)
• Cloud Security
• Security Architecture
• Cyber Resilience
• Automotive Cybersecurity
• Data Protection & Compliance
• Cyber Awareness & Communications

These specializations do not need to be decided on the first day of work. They often develop naturally through exposure to different projects and with growing experience.

Certifications and Further Training

Certifications also become increasingly important throughout one’s career. Common examples include:

• ISO 27001 Foundation
• ISO 27001 Lead Implementer
• ISMS Auditor

Depending on the chosen specialization, additional certifications in information security, risk management, or cybersecurity may become valuable later on.

This allows you to build a career that aligns with your strengths, interests, and goals, rather than the other way around.

Why Information Security Consultants Choose EFS Consulting

Instead of spending a long time in an observer role, you take on responsibility from day one, work in direct contact with clients, and collaborate with experienced experts. Along the way, you gain exposure to a wide range of industries and topics, from ISO 27001 and NIS2 to Automotive Cybersecurity. You will be part of a team where knowledge is actively shared, and where you shape your own professional development rather than following a rigidly predefined career path. At EFS Consulting, it is not only your expertise that matters, but also your personality: Real People. Real Business.

Who is this Career Suitable for?

Information security is a diverse field. As a result, there is no single ideal profile. People with different educational backgrounds, experiences, and strengths can successfully build a career in this area.

This means: No one needs to know everything when they start.

The most important qualities are an interest in security-related topics, analytical thinking, strong communication skills, and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt to new challenges.

Professional Skills and Knowledge

Depending on the role and area of specialization, experience in the following fields can be beneficial:

• Information Security Management
• Risk and Process Management
• Standards and frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001
• Data Protection and Regulatory Requirements
• IT and Cloud Fundamentals
• Audit and Assessment Methodologies
• Business Continuity Management
• Data Governance and Artificial Intelligence
• Automotive Cybersecurity
• OT Security

Technical expertise can be helpful, but it is not equally important in every specialization. In a cloud security project, for example, technical architecture may play a more prominent role. In contrast, an ISMS, regulatory, or awareness project may place greater emphasis on process understanding, communication skills, and analytical thinking.

Personal Skills

In many cases, certifications or field of study alone do not determine whether someone is a good fit for Information Security Consulting. However, certain personal qualities can be particularly beneficial:

• Problem-solving skills: You enjoy working on challenges for which there is no ready-made solution.
• Analytical thinking: You can structure large amounts of information, identify connections, and derive priorities.
• Strong communication skills: You can explain complex topics clearly and listen attentively to different stakeholders.
• Presentation skills: You are able to prepare results in a clear and compelling way and present them to clients or decision-makers.
• Structured way of working: You keep track of requirements, measures, and open action items.
• Curiosity and willingness to learn: You are interested in understanding how new technologies, threats, and regulations work.

You do not need to excel equally in all of these areas. Some consultants particularly enjoy analytical work, while others confidently facilitate workshops or excel at summarizing complex topics in a clear and concise presentation slide. EFS Consulting brings these different strengths together in interdisciplinary project teams.

Conclusion: You’re Closer to Information Security Than You Think

Information security is not just for technical specialists or programmers. Organizations are looking for people who can analyze, organize, communicate, think critically, and are willing to continuously learn and grow. If you are interested in security-related topics and are looking for a varied and dynamic career, explore the current career opportunities at EFS Consulting.