To kick-start the new year, global cybersecurity and cloud computing company Akamai Technologies has been announced as a National Ambassador of the National Cyber Resilience Centre Group (NCRCG).
Founded out of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the late 1990s, Akamai’s market-leading security solutions and threat intelligence power and protect businesses online, globally. Akamai is trusted by a range of high-profile organisations across the public and private sectors, including the world’s top ten banks and all six US military branches, as well as large, medium and small enterprise customers.
In its new role as a National Ambassador, Akamai will be working with NCRCG and the wider Cyber Resilience Centre (CRC) network to bolster the cyber defences of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across all industries in the UK.
Across the country there are nine CRCs which, together with NCRCG, make up the complete CRC network. Each police-led, regional centre offers free, high-quality cyber guidance and advice to SMEs in their localities and acts as a trusted place SMEs can go to take proportionate steps to strengthen their cyber resilience.
Akamai will also be working with NCRCG to explore a joint, national campaign to raise awareness of cyber resilience amongst its own customers and point them towards the support offered by the regional centres.
Richard Meeus, Director of Security Technology and Security Strategy EMEA at Akamai, said:
“Small and medium-sized enterprises are increasingly in the crosshairs of cybercriminals, facing sophisticated threats that can disrupt operations and compromise sensitive data. At Akamai, we understand the critical need for robust cyber defences to safeguard these businesses. By partnering with NCRCG, we aim to help SMEs better navigate the ever-evolving threat landscape and build resilience against attacks that could jeopardize their growth and success.”
Matthew Payne, Regional Director EMEA at Akamai, said:
“UK SMEs are the backbone of the economy, yet many lack the resources to address complex cybersecurity challenges. Akamai’s deep expertise in cyber defence and insight into emerging threats positions us to empower these businesses with knowledge and actionable solutions. Partnering with NCRCG allows us to extend critical support, ensuring SMEs can confidently strengthen their cyber resilience and thrive in today’s digital-first world.”
Alan Greig, interim CEO at NCRCG, said:
“We are so pleased to be getting 2025 off to a flying start by welcoming Akamai on board as a National Ambassador. Akamai is well known across the industry, both in the UK and globally, as a trusted, expert and reliable partner and, along with our other National Ambassadors, is showing its commitment to creating a cyber resilient UK economy. In particular, Akamai will be helping us to engage with and support SMEs in sectors which are not currently represented through our National Ambassador cohort, ensuring that our work is of use and benefit to all.”
