Nelson and Colne College Group’s IT Leader wins prestigious national award

Nelson and Colne College Group’s (NCCG) infrastructure team leader in IT and Network Services, Stewart Cunliffe, has been recognised as one of the winners in the 2024 NextCSO Awards.  

The accolade highlights rising stars of the UK cybersecurity sector.  

Stewart is one of only 10 winners of the award this year and stands alongside cybersecurity leaders from Virgin Media, The Highways Agency, Surrey University, and Ocado, and is also one of only two winners from the education sector. 

NextCSO is an annual awards and recognition program instituted by the CSO Forum, which aims to identify experienced senior executives and managers who have the skills, ability and motivation to become Chief Information Security Officers (CSOs). 

Winners are selected by an expert panel of independent judges, including representatives from Pinsent Masons, Dr. Martens, Zopa, and Fleet Mortgages. 

Stewart has been recognised for his outstanding contributions to managing NCCG's 4,000 user devices across all campuses and 62 community venues, as well as for his leadership of a dedicated team of four within a wider IT team of 16.

With over 30 years of experience in his role, Stewart has consistently showcased excellence in cybersecurity, including ensuring the college meets crucial Cyber Essentials standards and fulfils its safeguarding obligations to protect thousands of learners both online and offline.  

Stewart said: "I am truly honoured to be recognised by the CSO 30 awards. Cybersecurity in the education sector presents unique challenges, from maintaining compliance with Cyber Essentials to ensuring the safety of learners and staff across multiple campuses and venues. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire IT team at Nelson and Colne College Group." 

Andrew Dewhurst, vice principal of Partnerships & Engagements at NCCG, added: "We are thrilled that Stewart's work has been recognised by the Next CSO awards.

"This is a prestigious national accolade and a great reflection of the work Stewart and the whole IT team at Nelson and Colne College Group have contributed over the last few years to ensure the cyber security of our learners and staff." 

Stewart’s achievement underlines NCCG’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of cybersecurity, ensuring a secure digital environment for its learners, staff, and community.