We’ve been holding onto some bittersweet news at the WMCRC. On the 15th of March, our Director Vanessa Eyles will be leaving the WMCRC and Michelle Ohren will be stepping up to take over the role. Vanessa's departure marks the end of an era for us, but don’t panic, it will be business as usual for everyone who is linked to the WMCRC. 

As we prepare to bid farewell to Vanessa, it's only fitting to take a moment to reflect on her journey, and celebrate her achievements and the huge impact she has had! 

The early days 

With a career within the police force spanning an incredible 30 years, Vanessa was the perfect person to spearhead the WMCRC project. Over the last 2 and a half years she transformed a fledgling project into the thriving cyber resilience centre. Thanks to her expertise, dedication, and passion, the centre has been able to have an incredible impact, growing from strength to strength in such a short space of time.  

As the world becomes more digital, cybercrime is on the rise, so the creation of the centre was vital to help build defences in the form of education, innovation and community against digital threats. 

WMCRC highlights 

Under Vanessa's guidance, the WMCRC has achieved numerous milestones that we are immensely proud of. From participating in round table discussions at the House of Lords to being recognised at The Guildhall, the City of London Police HQ where she received the Commissioner's Commendation for her outstanding work leading The Cyber Resilience Centre for the West Midlands, Vanessa has been at the forefront of our success. These accolades are not just symbols of her achievements but also a testament to Vanessa's unwavering commitment to our core ethos – helping to prevent cybercrime. 

The heart of our cyber resilience efforts lies in our ability to educate, assist and support those in need. Over the past 2.5 years, Vanessa has led our team in reaching out to countless individuals and organisations, offering guidance, solutions, and a reassuring presence in times of crisis. The partnerships she’s made and the community she’s created are key to our ability to make a real difference in the realm of cyber resilience. 

Looking to the future 

Even as we bid her farewell, we’re filled with optimism for the future. Michelle, who has been an invaluable member of our team working directly alongside Vanessa, is ready to step up and continue the centre’s work. With her leadership and the foundation that Vanessa has laid, we are confident that our cyber resilience centre will continue to thrive and grow. And we’re thrilled to say that Vanessa will still be working with us occasionally on a consultancy basis, so you will see her around here and there! 

Whilst it may be business as usual around the WMCRC, we say goodbye to Vanessa with lots of gratitude for her work and excitement for the journey ahead. Her presence will be missed, but her impact on the WMCRC and the field of cyber resilience will be felt for years to come. 

If you’re looking to join our community, we’re always looking for new members to offer guidance, and advice and help influence the direction of the centre. Contact us to join the team today.