A former NHS digital director has been appointed to Scotland’s National Cyber Resilience Advisory Board to provide strategic guidance to ministers.
Deryck Mitchelson, ex-digital director at NHS National Services Scotland (NSS), will join leaders and influencers on the board from across the private, public and third sectors and the cybersecurity industry.
The NCRAB supports the delivery of the ‘strategic framework for a cyber resilient Scotland’ which aims to ensure Scotland is ready to deal with cybersecurity risks and has business continuity plans in place to cope with the constantly evolving threats in the digital world.
Mitchelson left the NHS earlier this year to join leading global cybersecurity firm Check Point as field chief information security officer, Europe, Middle East and Africa.
He said: “Cyberattacks are now at an all-time high and I have always been a big believer that this kind of collaboration is the only way forward if we want to stop cybercrime. It’s crucial in our industry that we can learn from each other, sharing insights, expertise and experience.”
According to Check Point Research (CPR), UK companies experienced an average of 777 cyberattacks a week over the last six months, and recently its mid-year report revealed a 42 per cent increase in attacks.
Mitchelson added: “The most important aspect of my job is collaboration and communication. I spend significant time with customers and partners, understanding their plans and strategies and supporting them with maturing their cyber posture, whether that is through the Check Point portfolio, basic hygiene or other third-party solutions.
“I am delighted to have been appointed to Scotland’s National Cyber Resilience Advisory Board and hope to not only bring my experience to the role but also learn from others too.”
Check Point’s SecureAcademy also recently announced its first partnership in Scotland. The global cybersecurity education provider has partnered with Dundee and Angus College to train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and support businesses across Scotland and the UK.
