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With an evolving understanding of both technical challenges and industry dynamics, he plays a pivotal role in uniting stakeholders, advancing cyber security initiatives, and shaping the future of clusters. In this spotlight feature, we explore Ryan’s journey, contributions, and vision for a more secure and interconnected world.

Can you share an overview of your career journey and how you entered cyber security?
I started in the retail sector, focusing on compliance, where I developed a passion for technology and innovation. This led me to transition into tech, with cyber security standing out due to its dynamic nature and critical role in the digital world.

What motivated you to take on the Cluster Lead role with Midlands Cyber?
I wanted to fully immerse myself in cyber security while leveraging my leadership skills. This role allows me to drive industry growth, support businesses, and foster innovation in the Midlands.

What are your primary responsibilities, and how do they align with the organisation’s goals?
I oversee Midlands Cyber’s operations, drive business development, and support member collaboration. My focus is ensuring our initiatives align with members’ needs, fostering growth, and strengthening the regional cyber ecosystem.

How do you manage tasks and challenges in overseeing a cyber security cluster?
I prioritise member support, using simple but effective tools like lists and a notebook. Staying organised and focusing on impactful initiatives ensures meaningful progress.

Can you share a key project that significantly impacted the cluster?
A standout initiative was supporting CyberUK 2024 in Birmingham. We played a key role in the regional steering group, coordinated a fringe festival, and facilitated collaborations that continue to drive sector growth.

How did you navigate the challenges of entering cyber security?
It was a steep learning curve, but I immersed myself by attending events, networking, and learning from industry experts. The cyber security community’s collaborative nature made the transition smoother.

What skills did you focus on when transitioning into this role?
I took a broad approach, building relationships with experts rather than becoming a technical specialist. My role is about facilitating connections and fostering collaboration to drive innovation.

What’s one of your proudest achievements with Midlands Cyber?
Expanding and diversifying our membership base across various industries, creating a collaborative ecosystem that drives cross-sector innovation.

What challenges have you faced as Cluster Lead, and how did you overcome them?
Sustaining growth and gaining industry recognition were key challenges. I addressed this by advocating for cyber security, engaging policymakers, and ensuring meaningful member engagement to create real value.

How do you see your role evolving in the next 3–5 years?
I aim to scale Midlands Cyber’s impact regionally and internationally by expanding membership, fostering deeper industry partnerships, and driving innovation through strategic initiatives.

On October 24, 2024 UKC3 held their Pan Cluster 6 (PAN6) event, a day packed with insights, collaboration, and a vision to drive UK cyber security forward. This bi-annual event, brought together representatives from clusters across the UK, giving them a platform to tackle key challenges, share fresh ideas, and plan for the future. Here’s a quick roundup of the day’s highlights and where UK cyber security is headed.

Morning: Big Plans and a Look Ahead

The day began with a warm welcome from Linda Smith, Chair of UKC3, who shared the network’s latest achievements and goals. With over 10,000 students and young people engaged, a membership that’s grown to 18,000, and 17 active clusters nationwide, UKC3 has been making huge strides. Linda and Ben Shorrock, Ecosystem Lead, laid out UKC3’s strategic direction for expanding support to clusters and advancing UK cyber initiatives on a national scale.

UKC3’s New Game Plan

UKC3 is adjusting its focus to make an even bigger impact. This involves strengthening strategic partnerships and structures that help UK cyber security stay strong and adaptive. The organisation is moving towards a model that emphasises collaboration, funding support, and national advocacy, giving clusters the resources they need to respond to both local and national demands.

Fresh Initiatives in the Spotlight

Rebecca Bryant and Sue Lowe from the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) took to the stage, discussing the government’s focus on cyber resilience and innovation. They highlighted key projects under the National Cyber Strategy, including CyberFirst, which is helping to build a more diverse and sustainable talent pool for the future. 

Simon Newman shared insights from new cluster funding case studies, specifically in London’s cyber sector, where findings underscored training gaps, a reliance on Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs), and the need for more standardised accreditation.

Afternoon: Building Stronger Clusters and Startup Innovation

The afternoon sessions kicked off with Danielle Phillips of CyberNorth, followed by group discussions led by Annabel Berry, who focused on Cluster Maturity Development. Attendees explored ways to strengthen regional collaboration, support cyber talent, and secure sustainable funding. This segment underscored the importance of a united approach to regional cyber development.

Robin Kennedy then introduced Cyber ASAP, the Cyber Security Academic Startup Accelerator Programme. This program has had remarkable success, creating 32 startups and generating £32 million in follow-on investments. Robin encouraged more academic and industry involvement to drive the next wave of UK cyber innovations.

Future Plans: National Goals and Local Initiatives

UKC3’s next six months are looking ambitious. Plans are underway to establish a National Cyber Industry Council and a Cluster Consultation Group to drive private-sector engagement. Additionally, a Cyber Security and Resilience Bill is being developed to promote best practices in resilience, digital identity, and professionalisation of the cyber workforce.

2025 will also see the roll-out of “Cyber Local” initiatives, with new funding and projects designed to address local needs and fuel the UK’s regional cyber capacity. The PAN6 event wrapped up with networking sessions, where the day’s learnings and plans for action were celebrated.

Key Takeaways

1. UKC3 is Growing: The network’s expansion will continue to shape both local and national cyber agendas.

2. Strengthening Resilience: Tackling regional skill gaps, supporting SMEs, and reducing cyber disparities remain top priorities.

3. Collaboration is Key: Academic and industry partnerships are crucial for initiatives like Cyber ASAP and CyberFirst to continue driving the UK’s cyber resilience.

With a solid foundation and a clear roadmap, UKC3 and its clusters are well-equipped to elevate the UK as a leader in cyber security. This year’s PAN6 event has set the stage for a resilient, inclusive, and innovative cyber future in the UK.

View the days highlight reel:

While Sophie’s day job involves working with a team of cybersecurity experts, her professional life extends beyond the typical nine-to-five. She’s also the co-founder and director of CyberWomen Group C.I.C, an initiative dedicated to making cybersecurity more inclusive by supporting women and underrepresented groups. On top of that, she’s organising the upcoming Cyber Leaders Challenge, a competition designed to nurture future talent in the industry. “I’m keeping busy,“ she says with a smile, balancing multiple responsibilities with enthusiasm.

A Passion for Change: The Birth of CyberWomen Group

CyberWomen Group C.I.C started back when Sophie was studying at The University of Warwick. Along with her friend Jenny McCullagh, they noticed the glaring gender imbalance in their computer science program. “We knew we were coming into a male-dominated industry, but we didn’t realise the extent of it,” Sophie recalls.

Instead of accepting this as the status quo, the two decided to make a change. Their first venture, a coffee morning at the University of Warwick, quickly ballooned into a full-scale conference, attracting over 200 attendees from across the West Midlands. The unexpected success of this event was a clear signal that there was a need for more spaces that elevated women and underrepresented groups in cybersecurity.

Realising they were onto something bigger, Sophie and Jenny launched CyberWomen Group C.I.C as a non-profit, creating a platform for students to connect and collaborate as they pursued careers in cybersecurity. Now, with 8 branches across the UK and plans to grow to 11 by early next year, the group has grown far beyond their initial vision.

Building a Welcoming Community

Despite its name, CyberWomen Group C.I.C isn’t just for women. Sophie and her team have worked hard to make the group welcoming for anyone from underrepresented backgrounds. “We want to create a space where nobody feels like they can’t be themselves,” Sophie says, emphasising that the group’s mission is about more than just gender. It’s about making sure everyone has a place where they feel supported and can thrive.

Sophie and her team ensure that all their events and initiatives reflect this spirit of inclusivity. “You’ll never see us focusing on just one gender,” she says. Instead, they aim to build a community where diversity is celebrated and where people can bring their authentic selves without fear of being left out.

A Future Focused on Personal Connections

While CyberWomen Group C.I.C has grown rapidly, Sophie is committed to keeping things personal. “We make sure we’re always available,” she says. Sophie and Jenny maintain close relationships with students and the group’s branches, making sure everyone feels heard and supported. “We’re here to listen to any concerns, opinions, or thoughts, and we always want people to know they have our backing.”

Looking ahead, Sophie wants to strengthen the group’s ties with both universities and the cybersecurity industry. By creating more opportunities for students to gain practical, hands-on experience, she hopes to help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and the skills needed in the workforce. “We want to keep working with industry because their support is invaluable,” she says, knowing that collaboration with businesses is key to preparing students for successful careers.

Sophie’s Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals

As someone who’s already achieved so much early in her career, Sophie is full of practical advice for those starting out in cybersecurity. She encourages students to focus not just on developing their technical skills, but also on improving their communication and interpersonal skills. Reflecting on her experience with the Cyber Path program, she says, “It’s very easy in university when you’re doing coursework and projects to get caught up in that side, but actually developing the soft skills to be able to go to clients and give them a well-earned training course is invaluable”

For Sophie, the combination of technical knowledge and real-world experience is what sets someone apart in the competitive field of cybersecurity. She urges students to seek out opportunities where they can apply what they’ve learned in a professional setting, as these experiences are often the most valuable.

A Trailblazer on a Mission

Through her work at Cyberport Group and as co-founder of CyberWomen Group C.I.C, Sophie Powell is blazing a trail for inclusivity in cybersecurity. Her passion for empowering others and her drive to create lasting change are helping to shape a more diverse and welcoming future for the industry.

As Sophie continues to juggle her many roles, she remains focused on her ultimate goal: creating a community where everyone can thrive. “It’s all about building a movement,” she says. And with her dedication and vision, there’s no doubt that Sophie is well on her way to doing just that.

UK Cyber Cluster Collaboration (UKC3), a leading organisation driving collaboration and innovation across the UK’s regions and nations’ cyber security sectors, is excited to announce its participation in CYBERUK, the UK government’s flagship cyber security event, hosted by the National Cyber Security Centre. This year, CYBERUK is taking place in Birmingham, and UKC3 will be present in the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology’s Innovation Zone.

At CYBERUK, UKC3 will showcase its pivotal role in advancing cyber security capabilities across the country via its 17  recognised regional cluster partnerships through three core pillars: Ecosystem Development, Skills Growth, and Innovation Join-up.

Ecosystem Development: UKC3 fosters collaboration and connectivity among cyber security clusters across the UK. Bringing together industry, academia, and government stakeholders, UKC3 aims to create synergies that drive innovation, knowledge-sharing, and resource mobilisation within the cyber security ecosystem.

Skills Growth: Recognising the critical need for a skilled cyber security workforce, UKC3 is committed to nurturing talent and promoting skill development initiatives. Through partnerships with educational institutions, training providers, and industry leaders, UKC3 supports clusters to facilitate the development of a robust pipeline of cyber security professionals equipped to tackle emerging threats.

Innovation Join-up: UKC3 acts as a catalyst for innovation by facilitating collaboration between startups, SMEs, and established industry players with the help of their 17 official cyber clusters. By connecting innovators with resources, funding opportunities, and mentorship, UKC3 and their clusters accelerate the development and adoption of groundbreaking cyber security solutions.

“We are thrilled to participate in CYBERUK 2024 hosted in Birmingham for the first time and showcase the impactful work UKC3 is doing to strengthen the whole of the UK’s cyber security ecosystem,” said Linda Smith, Chair at UKC3. “From fostering collaboration to nurturing talent and driving innovation, UKC3 is at the forefront of representing the advancing cyber security capabilities across the country.”

Midlands Cyber, one of the 17 officially recognised UK cyber clusters, will also be hosting CyberVerse, their regional platform at the same time in Birmingham at The Exchange. The Cyberverse programme will emerge as the focal point for fringe activities, uniting stakeholders from across the West Midlands’ cyber security ecosystem. This will include the “Cybertini” private drinks reception hosted by Midlands Cyber and sponsored by QinetiQ, HCR, Cynam and UKC3.  With CYBERUK 24 attendance of over 2,000 cyber security leaders and professionals, CyberVerse presents a prime opportunity for the region to showcase its status as a hub of cyber security excellence. UKC3 will be present at other fringe events to further support Midlands Cyber and help amplify the importance of cross-sector collaboration.

Alongside their presence at CYBERUK,  UKC3 is pleased to announce that they are actively seeking partnerships to complement their strategic work in addition to the existing partnership with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. UKC3 would love an opportunity to talk to organisations interested in collaborating and partnering with them. Through strategic partnering, organisations will be driving cyber security innovation and growth throughout the UK. Those interested are encouraged to reach out for more information from UKC3.  

For inquiries or to schedule a partnerships meeting with a representative from UKC3, please contact:

Helen Matthews

Acting Engagement & Operations Manager

info@ukc3.org

About UK Cyber Cluster Collaboration (UKC3):

UKC3 drives connectivity, economic growth, and innovation in the cyber security sector as the nation’s central hub for public and private organisations. Our mission is to empower and unite Cyber Clusters, fostering strategic collaborations and facilitating knowledge exchange. 

Through comprehensive support, funding programs, and a thriving ecosystem, we create a formidable network that fortifies cyber security, accelerates innovation, and propels growth. 

Together, we shape the secure digital future for the UK.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the challenges parents face when returning to work after taking parental leave, particularly in the tech and cyber sectors. However, positive strides have been made to address these issues, with the UK government introducing initiatives aimed at providing greater support and protection for new parents in the workplace.

40% of female respondents acknowledged that family responsibilities played a significant role in their choice to depart from their positions in the technology sector.

According to research by Tech Talent Charter

One such initiative is the Pregnancy and Maternity Discrimination Bill, championed by Dan Jarvis MP and backed by the government in October 2022. This bill aims to extend redundancy protection to pregnant women as well as new parents returning to work from a relevant form of leave. By doing so, it seeks to shield new parents and expectant mothers from workplace discrimination, offering them greater job security during this crucial time in their lives.

This legislative move is a significant step forward in ensuring that parents in the tech field are afforded the protections they need to confidently return to work and pursue their careers without fear of discrimination or unfair treatment. It signals a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees, regardless of their parental status.

Furthermore, the tech industry, known for its embrace of remote work, hybrid models, and flexible working hours, is uniquely positioned to empower parents returning to the workforce. These flexible work arrangements not only accommodate the needs of parents but also enable them to balance their professional responsibilities with their family commitments more effectively.

Remote work, in particular, has proven to be a game-changer for many parents, allowing them to work from home while still contributing meaningfully to their teams and projects. The flexibility afforded by remote work can alleviate some of the stress associated with childcare arrangements and enable parents to be more present for their families while advancing their careers in the tech sector.

Initiatives like the Pregnancy and Maternity Discrimination Bill, coupled with the flexibility inherent in tech industry work culture, are essential for supporting parents returning to work. By creating an environment that values and accommodates the needs of parents, we can ensure that the tech field remains diverse, inclusive, and accessible to all.

Although some people have faced negative experiences returning to work or even balancing the life of being a parent in the workforce, we’ve talked to three separate individuals about their experiences as parents in / returning to work. In these short interviews, they cover the challenges they faced navigating the world of being a parent and working as well as their thoughts on how the industry has or hasn’t changed for them and their colleagues. 

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Dr. Ismini Vasileiou, Director of East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster and Associate professor at De Montfort University 

Stepping into the world of academia within cyber security as a neurodiverse single mom has presented its fair share of challenges. Even in 2024, the field remains predominantly male, with lingering stereotypes. Juggling the demands of research, teaching, and parenting often feels like navigating a complex puzzle, especially when facing biases against women.

Career breaks can be particularly tough for women in academia, as they can slow down career progression and limit opportunities for advancement. However, with determination and the support of allies who value diversity, I’ve managed to keep moving forward. 

Having flexible schedules and the option for remote work has been a saving grace, allowing me to balance my professional and personal responsibilities more effectively. Finding the right allies and mentors who not only recognise the value of diversity but also actively support and champion inclusivity has been crucial. Their guidance, encouragement, and advocacy have provided me with the strength and resilience needed to overcome obstacles and pursue my goals. Through mentorship, I’ve gained valuable insights, identified my skills, and expanded my professional network, ultimately contributing to my growth and success in academia.

 

David Nicholls, Managing Director at Better-IT Limited and Director of East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster

My children are young, and I am determined to prioritise my time with them and enjoy being there while they grow up. It would be so easy to miss these early years and not have the opportunity to develop close relationships with them.

Working in Cyber allows me a work/life balance that works for us all. I can work from any location, on any device, and at any time, which means that I don’t have to adhere to the standard 9-5 working hours. When things like an illness or school event occur, I have the flexibility to do as I need while still being in communication with the team if I am required.

Most of the people who work in my company have young children, and the understanding and flexibility offered help our workplace be a happy and productive place. We have had 100% staff retention over the past five years!

 

Amy Cushion, Business Support & Operations Manager, CyNam

As a parent, re-entering the realm of work has come with its own set of challenges and adjustments. I often feel at capacity with all the competing demands on my time; fitting family life and school runs around a 30-hour working week is not always easy!  I have found that embracing the unpredictability that comes with parenthood and being open to adjusting schedules and priorities accordingly is essential.  Whether it’s accommodating unexpected childcare needs or rearranging meetings to accommodate family commitments, flexibility is key.  By encompassing flexibility and setting out clear boundaries, it has been manageable for me.  I established my new designated work hours around the school runs and I try to manage my time and diary accordingly.  It is not always possible; I do find myself on Teams calls at home with a loud, snack-demanding child!  

I do feel that the world of work, particularly in this industry, has evolved over the past few years. Remote working and the need to be flexible around families and commitments seem to be much more accepted and far better accommodated.  The cyber/tech space seems to lead the way in offering parents the support and flexibility they need to balance their work and family responsibilities.  I am extremely lucky to work with a fantastic team who understand, and fully support me in my attempt to maintain a healthy balance between work and home life. 

Cyber East, the cyber cluster for East Anglia, is making waves in the cyber security landscape with their expansion into Essex. This strategic move is set to have a significant impact not only on Cyber East but also on the broader UK Cyber Ecosystem.

East Anglia has long been recognised as a hub for technological innovation, with the Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre and Anglia Ruskin University being at the heart to help connect / inspire cyber professionals and enthusiasts around them. Cyber East has played a crucial role in fostering collaboration and driving growth in the region’s cyber security sector by acting as a central hub to help inspire the sharing of knowledge and best practices. As Cyber East sets to expand into Essex, the cluster aims to further strengthen its position as a leading cyber security cluster in the East and capitalise on the region’s diverse talent pool and vibrant business community.

Cyber East will be partnering with The University of Essex and The Institute for Analytics and Data Science.

Their presence in the Essex was greatly welcomed by The University of Essex & IADS who were keen to support and collaborate with new cyber initiatives in the area.

Moreover, the growth of Cyber East aligns with the UK Cyber Cluster Collaboration (UKC3)’s mission to promote collaboration and innovation across cyber clusters and regions nationwide. As a recognised member of the UKC3 Cyber Ecosystem, Cyber East’s advancement in their region reinforces the network’s strength and resilience, contributing to the UK’s position as a global leader in cyber security.

The presence of Cyber East in Essex will not only benefit the local economy but also enhance the region’s cyber security resilience. By fostering a supportive ecosystem for cyber innovation and entrepreneurship, Cyber East can help organisations attract top talent, drive innovation, and address the skills gap that is happening with the UK cyber sector.

Don’t miss out on your chance to be a part of this new stage of Cyber East, book your ticket to their launch event powered by the University of Essex. The event will be themed around ‘Innovation and partnerships in cyber security, privacy and data’. There will be a number of speakers who will be sharing insight into AI, Innovation, best practice methods and an interactive Q&A Panel. Following the focused sessions attendees are invited to join us for networking to meet the speakers and other like-minded industry colleagues.

Book your ticket today here.