Meet our cyber security specialists

Here at Grey Matter, we think client-reseller, people-to-people relationships are really important and valuable. So to help you get to know some of the people who are part of Grey Matter, we have been interviewing different teams. This time it is the turn of Scott Harrison and James McKenny from our UK cyber security team. Below you'll find out more about their roles, and how they help clients with cyber security.

How long have you been at Grey Matter? And specifically in the cyber security team?

Scott: I've been at Grey Matter for 7 years, and spent 3 of those years in security roles. I head up the cyber security solutions team.

James: I've spent just short of 2 years in the security team alongside Scott.

What are your specialist products/solutions?

Scott: I specialise in endpoint protection and Managed Security Services (ESET, Sophos, Threatdown [by Malwarebytes]), backup and disaster recovery (Veeam, Acronis, KeepIT), Cyber Essentials Certification, as well as firewalls, patching and vulnerability.

James: Whereas, I have a focus on pen testing, KnowBe4 (cyber security awareness training), 1Password, ESET, and Sophos.

Scott: As you can see, we cover quite a spectrum of security solutions.

What certifications and accreditations do you have?

Scott: I have the following:

• Acronis Certified Sales and Tech Foundation
• Veeam Sales Certified and Technical Sales Certified
• Sophos Sales Professional, Engineer Technical, Certified Architect

James: I have the following accreditations:

• Acronis for Cloud Sales Fundamentals, Advanced Backup, and Email Security
• ESET, Sales Specialist
• 1 Password Partner Essentials
• KnowBe4 Sales Specialist
• Sophos Selling MDR
• Advanced Cyber Security Diploma

Scott: We top these up and add more qualifications on a regular basis, so our clients can lean on us for the most up-to-date knowledge and advice.

Why should organisations purchase their cyber security from Grey Matter?

James: We offer a wealth of vendors to suit an organisation's specific requirements, working in a consultative approach to find the best fit.

Scott: And, we provide expert advice on getting a "solution" for the business, as we want to help build a security roadmap as the organisation grows.

How do you/Grey Matter help clients with cyber security?

James: Our team provides awareness of current cyber threats, and we introduce vendors to the client. We inform clients through webinars and regular client contact. We also work closely with and are trained regularly by our leading security partners.

Scott: That's right. And as I said before, we provide advice and help a client build a cyber security roadmap to ensure they have multi-layered protection in place.

Which security trends, challenges and so on should clients be aware of?

Scott: As more clients moved to the Cloud, the attacks have also increased, Reduced visibility and control, misconfigured cloud storage and settings, vulnerable cloud applications, incomplete data deletion, compliance issues, and migration concerns will continue to impact businesses in the coming years.

James: Clients also need to be aware of any legislation changes. Plus, email is still the top threat vector so never underestimate the importance of training staff to be aware of social engineering and phishing threats.

Now for the fun, personal stuff. What is your favourite song?

James: Too many to mention.

Scott: Comeback Kid by The Midnight.

What is your favourite band or artist?

Scott: My favourite is a band called The Midnight.

James: For me, it depends on the day I'm having.

Scott: James is not giving much away, is he?! haha.

What is your favourite film?

James: My favourite is Withnail and I.

Scott: Mine is a fairly new one, Dune (2022 version). I am really looking forward to the sequel that's coming out this year.

Want to get in touch with our cyber security team?

You can by filling in the contact form below, messaging us on Live Chat, or calling +44 (0) 1364 655 181.

Also, make sure to check out our cyber security solutions page.