Last month, we hosted our Annual Stakeholder Summit in Torquay, bringing together an incredible network of partners, businesses, and industry leaders to discuss, collaborate, and strengthen cyber resilience across the South West. The event was packed with insightful talks, engaging workshops, and dynamic demonstrations, all aimed at addressing the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

A Day of Insightful Talks and Collaboration

The summit was a fantastic opportunity to hear from leading experts across various sectors who are driving forward key initiatives to improve cyber resilience. We were privileged to welcome a diverse panel of speakers, each bringing valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity today. A huge thank you to:

• Leanne Alleyne, National Police Chiefs’ Council

• Mick Harrison, Devon and Cornwall Police

• Julie Bailey MBCS, BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT

• Craig Sharp & Dan Maund CISM, Leonardo

• Geoffrey Newsome, The ITSA Digital Trust

  
  

Their contributions helped shape meaningful discussions about cyber threats, best practices, and how businesses and organisations can stay ahead of emerging risks.

Spotlight on Cyber Local Fund Projects

One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to hear from key Cyber Local Fund project leads, who are spearheading initiatives that will make a real impact across the South West. These projects, supported by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), are designed to strengthen cyber resilience across multiple sectors.

A special thank you to:

• Daniel Plummer (Digital Care Hub) – Improving Adult Social Care Cyber Resilience in the South West, a critical initiative supporting adult social care providers in enhancing their cybersecurity measures to protect essential services and sensitive data.

• Marta F. Arroyabe (University of Essex) – CyberSecurityAId: Empowering Small Businesses with Cyber Security Skills, providing SMEs with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate today’s evolving cyber threats.

• Suzanne Manson (TECwomen CIC) – CyberUPLIFT, an inspiring programme designed to empower underrepresented groups in the tech sector, offering hands-on cybersecurity skills and mentorship opportunities.

These projects are set to make a significant impact, and we look forward to seeing the results unfold throughout the year.

Leonardo’s Expertise and Industry Leadership

We were also delighted to have Leonardo as a key contributor to this year’s summit. Their expertise and leadership in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and innovation added immense value to the day’s discussions. A special thank you to:

• Craig Sharp, VP at Leonardo, for delivering a warm welcome and setting the stage for an insightful and engaging summit.

• Dan Maund CISM, who delivered a fascinating keynote presentation on Artificial Intelligence and Security, exploring how AI is shaping the future of cybersecurity and the opportunities and challenges it presents.

• Isaac Pasley, Leonardo apprentice, for an impressive apprentice demonstration, showcasing the talent and innovation of the next generation of cyber professionals and highlighting the importance of developing future cybersecurity leaders.

Leonardo’s involvement was instrumental in driving discussions around AI, security, and workforce development, and we greatly appreciate their continued commitment to strengthening cybersecurity resilience across the South West.

Ending on a High: Supporting The ITSA Digital Trust

The summit concluded with a charity fundraiser in support of The ITSA Digital Trust (formerly IT Schools Africa), an organisation dedicated to bridging the digital divide and improving access to technology for those in need. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed, helping to make a difference through technology and education.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The Annual Stakeholder Summit was a resounding success, bringing together leaders, businesses, and organisations committed to building a more cyber-secure South West. The conversations, collaborations, and initiatives launched at this year’s event will have a lasting impact, and we are already looking forward to next year’s summit.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended, contributed, and supported this event. Your dedication and engagement are what make these gatherings so valuable. As we continue to strengthen cyber resilience in the region, we look forward to working together on new projects, partnerships, and opportunities in the months ahead.