Deputy Head of the UK’s Cyber Security Operations Centre

Robert is a leading figure in the field of cyber security with extensive experience across government, defence and the private sector. He began his career in 2005, working in cyber security for the UK Ministry of Defence before moving on to found The Cyber Security Expert in 2012, providing trusted advice to top-tier organisations, including the UK Government. He has held senior roles such as Deputy Head of the UK’s Cyber Security Operations Centre and Associate Fellow for Cyber at The Royal United Services Institute. Since 2019, he has served as Chief Information Security Officer at Cazoo.

Credentials and Impact

Robert has built a distinguished career in cyber security, underpinned by a strong academic foundation with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. He began his professional journey as a consultant for Tertio in 1998 before moving into the financial sector as a Security Consultant for UBS. In this role, he carried out risk assessments and architecture reviews, helping to strengthen the resilience of a major global business. His expertise later led him to the Ministry of Defence, where he spent three years as part of the team responsible for cyber incident response and reporting to senior Government officials.

At the Ministry of Defence, he played a vital role in the planning and delivery of cyber security measures for the London 2012 Olympic Games, ensuring the event was safeguarded against emerging threats. This work highlighted both his technical skills and his ability to coordinate at the highest levels of Government. His impact is seen not only in his operational roles but also in his influence across the wider industry, providing leadership, insight and assurance in critical national projects. These credentials position him as a highly respected figure whose contributions continue to shape the field of cyber security.

Publications and Media

Robert is widely recognised as an authority on cyber security and artificial intelligence, with his insights featured in The Sun, The Wall Street Journal, Aljazeera and CNBC. He regularly briefs UK Ministers and business leaders on preparing for and tackling evolving cyber threats. Beyond thought leadership, he collaborates with organisations nationwide to develop innovative cyber security solutions, helping businesses remain resilient and prepared in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Why Hire Robert Pritchard?

Known for his ability to make complex topics accessible, Robert Pritchard is booked as a cyber security speaker because he combines real-world experience with clear, practical advice. With a proven history of developing security strategies for government, defence and leading organisations, he brings credibility and authority to every engagement. His talks help businesses understand the risks they face when using technology and provide them with the tools and knowledge to strengthen their resilience against cyber threats.

To book Robert to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.