East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster has confirmed another expert speaker for its East Midlands Cyber Summit 2026.

Simon Plummer, Director of Information Security at Nottingham-based cyber security partner Collective Security, will address delegates at the event in February. 

With more than 20 years’ experience across IT, cyber, and information security, Simon specialises in making robust cyber security accessible, practical, and jargon-free for organisations of all sizes.​

Simon has held senior security roles across sectors including energy, health, pharmaceuticals, logistics, legal, and the public sector, giving him a deep understanding of how to turn complex compliance requirements into affordable, business-enabling strategies for SMEs. 

Collective Security provides tailored services such as risk management support, continuous cyber monitoring, awareness training, security testing, incident support, and fast-tracked Cyber Essentials certification – helping clients strengthen resilience and use strong cyber credentials to win work in competitive supply chains.​

Dr Ismini Vasileiou, founder of EMCSC and UKC3 co-chair, is leading East Midlands Cyber Summit as part of the cluster’s ongoing CyberGrowth programme.

“Simon brings exactly the kind of real-world insight that East Midlands SMEs need right now,” she said.

“He understands the pressures smaller businesses face and shows how practical cyber security and tools like Cyber Essentials can move from ‘tick-box’ to genuine commercial advantage.

“Our aim with the Summit is to equip business leaders with advice they can act on the very next day. Simon’s experience working hands-on with organisations across different sectors means delegates will hear honest, straight-talking guidance they can trust and apply in their own businesses.”

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. 

EMCSC has already confirmed Professor Phil Legg, Professor of Cyber Security at UWE Bristol, and Jill Broom, who leads the techUK Cyber Resilience programme. 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 only 100 places are available. Reserve yours now here.