Cyber Essentials 2026: What Changed, Where Businesses Fail, and How to Get Ready

With over two decades of professional experience, I have dedicated my career to enhancing cyber resilience for SMEs in the North East region. At the North East Business Resilience Centre (NEBRC), my mission is to drive innovative cybersecurity solutions by fostering collaboration between law enforcement, academia, and the business community. As a police Detective Inspector, I have gained extensive expertise in cybercrime prevention at local, regional, and national levels. This role has provided me with a deep understanding of electronic security systems, which informs and strengthens my contributions to the NEBRC. My current academic research focuses on how User-Centred Design (UCD) principles can be applied to deliver essential cybersecurity insights to professionals working with SMEs, ultimately helping to improve their cybersecurity posture. This research reflects my dedication to advancing the field through practical, strategic innovation. Additionally, I have applied my skills as a User Researcher, utilising the Government Digital Service (GDS) service manual to improve websites, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, and other digital platforms. This work involves identifying user needs, gaining empathy with users, and ensuring solutions are tailored to real-world challenges. I am an experienced public speaker, adept at presenting to both technical and non-technical audiences of varying sizes. My passion for cybersecurity inspires and mobilises stakeholders across the cyber ecosystem.

Nikolay has served as Solutions Engineer and Architect for cloud products of Acronis since 2014. He focuses on solutions for cloud service providers that bring backup, disaster recovery, and comprehensive cyber protection to partners of all levels. Nikolay holds a Master’s degree in Mathematics from Virginia Tech.

Experienced IT leader with a strong track record of aligning technology strategy with business goals across MSP and enterprise environments. As Head of IT, I’ve led multi-site teams across service delivery, pre-sales, and project execution—driving innovation, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing customer experience. I take a consultative approach to leadership, working closely with stakeholders to shape IT roadmaps, build high-performing teams, and deliver scalable solutions across cloud, cybersecurity, networking, and collaboration platforms. Passionate about mentoring, service improvement, and leveraging technology to create long-term value.