Global expert to provide senior leaders with essential skills to defend against cyber attacks

University of Gloucestershire is launching a new cyber security programme led by a global expert to provide business leaders with the skills and confidence to mitigate the risk of their organisations falling victim to a devasting cyberattack.

Cyber incidents, including ransomware, phishing, data breaches, and IT outages, were the number one business risk in the UK for 2025, with 50 per cent of UK firms experiencing breaches.

The cost of a data breach ranges from an average of more than £25,000 for small businesses, to many millions in high-profile cases affecting large organisations.

The University's new 12-month programme - Unbreachable? Cyber leadership for senior leaders - will provide the essential skills to embed a culture of cyber security best practice and deliver long-term organisational protection.

The course, which starts in spring 2026, is led by the University's Professor Buck Rogers (pictured), internationally recognised cyber and resilience leader and advisor to organisations including the IMF and M&S.

Rogers, a Professor in Cyber Security, said: "I help leaders who need more than dashboards and jargon - they need foresight, strategy, and courage.

"My work is about helping organisations anticipate emerging risks, withstand disruption, and recover with confidence - especially when the threats aren't obvious until they're already unfolding.

"This course is designed for senior leaders who want clarity, not complexity, and who want to feel confident asking the right questions and about making the right decisions. They will leave the course feeling reassured and grounded and understanding cyber security."