Professional services company Accenture has acquired Context Information Security, a leading cyber defence consultancy, for an undisclosed fee.

The acquisition of the London-headquartered firm will strengthen Accenture Security’s existing portfolio and enhance the organisation’s cyber defence offerings.

Founded in 1998, Context was previously owned by Babcock International Group and has offices in Germany, the United States and Edinburgh. The company provides high-end cyber defence, intelligence-driven red team, vulnerability research and incident response services.

Context’s client base encompasses a range of industries, including financial services, government, aerospace and defence. It has played a significant role in enabling government organisations, financial institutions and other clients respond to the threat of advanced cyber attacks.

Commenting on the acquisition Kelly Bissell, Senior Managing Director at Accenture said: “This acquisition is an excellent match for us, combining a group of highly skilled cybersecurity professionals globally while providing differentiated services to clients in the UK market.

“The deal signals continued aggressive growth for Accenture Security and gives us a new branch of talented family members to help clients grow their business with confidence and resilience.”

More than 250 employees from the company will join Accenture Security as part of the deal, helping to deepen services offered to clients.

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Mark Raeburn, CEO of Context Information Security, added: “We are excited about the opportunity to become part of the Accenture family. Combining our skills and expertise under one roof to help us do more for our clients and create more opportunities for our people was an easy decision.

“Accenture’s industry-focused approach across adversary simulation, red teaming, incident response and more, matches Context’s own strategy. Accenture’s family culture is a great fit for Context. We’re genuinely excited to join forces to help clients better defend themselves against the world’s most advanced adversaries.”

This deal marks the latest in a series of acquisitions for Accenture. In January, the company agreed to acquire Symantec’s Cyber Security Services business. The firm has also recently acquired Deja vu Security, iDefense, Maglan, Redcore, Arismore and FusionX.

Accenture said the acquisitions demonstrate its commitment to “investing, innovating and scaling” its cybersecurity services for clients.

Les Bayne, Joint MD for Accenture Scotland, commented: “Companies like Context Information Security with footprints here in Edinburgh offer huge opportunities for financial services firms to benefit from industry leading cyber defence talent and experience.

“They are an excellent match for Accenture Security globally, but particularly here in Scotland where FS firms demand world class support.”