East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster has confirmed another expert speaker for the inaugural East Midlands Cyber Summit.

Jon O’Grady, Associate Director of Information Security at De Montfort University (DMU), joins the line-up for the event in February. 

Guest speakers already include Professor Phil Legg, from UWE Bristol, Jill Broom, who leads the techUK Cyber Resilience programme, and Simon Plummer, Director of Information Security at cyber security partner Collective Security. They bring a host of perspectives from academia, industry, and national policy.​

Jon plays a leading role in DMU’s cyber and information security function, overseeing the protection of university data and contributing to security innovation in the higher education sector. 

His work includes collaborating with major technology providers on cyber security in universities, and his professional certifications, including CISM and CRISC, reflect deep expertise in managing information security programmes and risk.​

Dr Ismini Vasileiou, founder of EMCSC, UKC3 co-chair, and lead for the regional CyberGrowth programme, is spearheading the Summit as a flagship for helping SMEs across the region to build their digital resilience. 

“Jon brings a frontline perspective on protecting complex organisations that will resonate strongly with East Midlands businesses,” she said.

“His experience combining governance, technology and partnership working will help delegates see how robust security can be woven into day-to-day operations rather than treated as an add‑on.”

The East Midlands Cyber Summit will combine expert talks, hands-on workshops, and networking to give delegates a clear view of how cyber attacks unfold and the steps they can take to protect their organisations. 

Further speakers will be announced over coming weeks.​

The East Midlands Cyber Summit is an opportunity to understand how and why cyber attacks happen to SMEs and discover proven ways to boost your business’s resilience through speaking to experts.

The Summit takes place on 12 February 2026 from 9am to 4pm at The Venue, Western Boulevard, Leicester. Registration is free for East Midlands businesses – but fewer than 30 places remain available. Reserve yours now here.