When life closes a door, it sometimes opens a window to something even better. That’s the story behind Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions.
Humble beginnings
Nearly two decades ago, I stepped away from a comfortable 12-year Systems Management role at Royal Mail, hungry for change. Armed with technical knowledge and determination, Bitz ‘n’ PC’z Ltd was born – my first venture into entrepreneurship (although I did run a mobile disco in the 90’s with a school friend!)
What began as fixing computers and setting up devices for local residents quickly evolved. I discovered my true calling when I entered the education sector, providing IT support to schools. Through genuine relationships and word-of-mouth referrals, my client base grew organically – deputies becoming heads, teachers moving to new schools, all bringing me along on their journeys.
Adapting to change
The education landscape shifted dramatically with the rise of Multi-Academy Trusts. As IT services centralised, my thriving network of schools gradually reduced. The writing was on the wall: adapt or fade away.
But amid this challenge came opportunity. The Department for Education rolled out new Cyber Security Standards, and I found myself energised by helping schools achieve compliance with limited resources. My previous experience at Royal Mail , where we’d worked directly with the Information Commissioner’s Office on data protection long before GDPR existed, proved invaluable.
The Black Swan evolution
This pivot point is where Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions emerged, representing not just a business transition, but a new beginning that needs nurturing to truly soar. While the expertise and passion are firmly in place, I’m actively seeking partners and clients who value specialised cyber security knowledge in education.
We’re not just another IT company. We’re specialists who understand the unique challenges faced by educational institutions and small organisations trying to protect their digital assets without breaking the bank.
What drives us
I never entered business to acquire wealth or status symbols. With the summer holidays approaching , a financially demanding time for all families, including my own, I’m reminded of what truly matters. My motivation comes from supporting my musical theatre-loving daughter and football-mad son, while delivering exceptional value to clients who put their trust in me.
Though we may be small, we’re backed by some of the industry’s leading cyber security providers. This combination gives our clients the personal touch of a dedicated local expert with the robust protection of established security solutions.
A Call to connect
Black Swan is at a crucial growth stage, and meaningful connections now will help shape our future. If you know of schools, academies, or small businesses navigating cyber security challenges, I would be genuinely grateful for an introduction.
The changing educational landscape hasn’t ended opportunity, it’s transformed it. Multi-Academy Trusts and individual schools alike face unprecedented cyber security challenges, and our specialised expertise is more relevant than ever.
Summer is an ideal time for many organisations to review and upgrade their security posture before the new academic year begins. If you can help connect us with decision-makers during this valuable planning period, you’d be supporting not just a local business, but a family and community member dedicated to protecting what matters.
Let’s protect what matters together.
