Scottish cyber specialist among first recognised by UK Cyber Security Council

Brightridge Technology has further strengthened its cyber security capability following recognition of its Cyber Essentials Assessor, Nicola McKay, by the UK Cyber Security Council.

Headquartered in Central Scotland with a growing presence in Aberdeen, the business is aligning its Cyber Essentials expertise with new professional standards shaping the UK’s cyber workforce.

Nicola is among the first professionals to be recognised under the Council’s new Associate Cyber Security Professional (ACSP) title, a designation awarded to individuals who meet nationally aligned standards for technical capability, professionalism and ethical practice.

As a qualified Cyber Essentials Assessor, Nicola was able to fast-track her application to the UK Cyber Security Professional Register, reflecting the close alignment between the Cyber Essentials scheme and the Council’s competency framework.

The recognition also reinforces Brightridge’s position as one of a small number of Certifying Bodies in Scotland – in the single figures – able to assess, remediate and certify organisations entirely in-house, removing the need for multiple providers and simplifying the process for clients.

Nicola McKay, Cyber Essentials Assessor at Brightridge Technology, said: “Cyber Essentials plays a vital role in helping organisations build a strong security foundation, but for many, the process can feel overwhelming. Being recognised by the UK Cyber Security Council reinforces the standards behind what we deliver and gives clients confidence that they’re working with someone who understands both the technical requirements and the practical realities of implementing them.”