Lloyds Banking Group (LBG) has cemented its role as a leader in cyber security by joining the National Cyber Resilience Centre Group (NCRCG) as a National Ambassador. By aligning with esteemed partners such as Nationwide, NatWest, and Microsoft, LBG aims to bolster the cyber resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK.
LBG stands as the UK's largest digital bank, with a rich legacy spanning over 325 years, serving 27 million customers and 2.2 million shareholders. Its new partnership with NCRCG underscores its dedication to safeguarding the nation’s backbone—its SMEs—from cyber threats.
The NCRCG spearheads a network that supports SMEs through nine regional Cyber Resilience Centres (CRCs) located throughout England and Wales. These police-led hubs offer affordable, top-notch cyber advice and act as a safe haven for businesses to enhance their cyber defences. Offerings range from webinars on essential security topics to advanced Security Awareness Training and Policy Reviews.
As a National Ambassador, LBG will drive awareness campaigns via its Relationship Managers, highlighting the pivotal roles these CRCs play in supporting SMEs.
Paul Kempster, Managing Director of Commercial Banking Coverage at LBG, emphasised the critical need for SMEs to have access to the necessary tools and guidance to fortify their cyber resilience, describing them as the core pillar of the UK economy facing heightened cyber risks. Meanwhile, Matt Rowe, Chief Security Officer at LBG, expressed pride in joining NCRCG to help instil a proactive approach to cyber security within the SME community.
Joanna Goddard, Chief Experience Officer at NCRCG, extended her welcome to LBG, emphasising the strategic alliance as a significant step towards embedding cyber resilience within the SME economy. She highlighted the upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill as a vital measure to secure UK's critical infrastructure and the indispensable role of SMEs in this process.
