Entrepreneur and angel investor Paul Atkinson has been named as the new Chair of the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC).

He joins the SBRC as it seeks to further highlight and support Scottish businesses through tumultuous times.

As part of this mission, the organisation has introduced new initiatives to help promote cybersecurity. These include non-technical training programmes, and an updated version of its ‘Exercise in a Box’ programme, which provides workshops around certain cyberattacks.

2020 has been a bumper year for cyberattacks. In addition to high-profile hacks, the rise of remote working and cloud-based services has increased the risk of cybersecurity issues.

With considerable experience in working with technology and services companies, Atkinson will work closely with the SBRC’s board and CEO Jude McCorry to further reinforce the value of the organisation to Scottish businesses.

Commenting on Atkinson’s appointment, McCorry said: “Over the last 12 months, the SBRC has launched many training programmes and initiatives to not only increase knowledge about cyber resilience but to support overall business resilience in Scotland as we all battle the effects of the pandemic.

“Throughout this, Paul has been heavily involved with the SBRC, particularly in steering the hugely successful Scottish Business Cares initiative. He not only brings significant experience as a Chair but as one of Scotland’s most successful entrepreneurs, he has a passion for technology which will support the SBRC as it further evolves.”

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Speaking about his new role, Atkinson, who is a founding partner of Par Equity and non-executive Chairman of Taranata Group, said: “Jude and the wider team have transformed the SBRC over the last year and its success is testament to the incredible effort which has been put in.

“In parallel, we have also seen more organisations fall victim to cyberattacks, highlighting the fact that no business can afford to rest on their laurels when it comes to IT Security.

“Given the many issues the business community continues to face; it is more important than ever that they are equipped to approach the ongoing challenge of cyber resilience.”

Join the Debate: ScotSecure 2021

The evolution of cybersecurity during the pandemic and the remote working revolution will be a key area of discussion at the upcoming ScotSecure Cybersecurity Conference on March 24-25th. SBRC CEO Jude McCorry will be speaking at the virtual event.

Hear from leading experts from across the cybersecurity sector and explore the crucial issues.

Register your free place now at: https://www.scot-secure.com