Aston University to Enhance IT Company with Expertise in Cyber Security Management
Aston University has teamed up with a South West-based IT company through a knowledge transfer partnership (KTP) to transform the business into a world-leading cyber security education, training and technology solutions provider, with a focus on managing outsourced cyber security services for its customers.
BIT Group is a multi-award-winning information technology company offering high-quality IT, cyber and information security services and digital apprenticeships.
A KTP is a three-way collaboration between a business, an academic partner and a highly qualified researcher, known as a KTP associate. The UK-wide programme helps businesses to improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills. Aston University is a sector leading KTP provider, with 80% of its completed projects being graded as very good or outstanding by Innovate UK, the national body.
The KTP will develop new income streams by enhancing and growing the range of cyber security services, training and apprenticeships and technology platforms offered through its Security Operation Centre. This involves adapting and streamlining how BIT Group operates, and embedding skills so the company’s growth and future profitability can be sustained.
The project is led by Professor Vladlena Benson, an industry-recognised expert in cybersecurity risk management and director of Aston University’s Cyber Security Innovation (CSI) Research Centre, who is a member of the UK’s Cyber Security Council. She is joined by Dr Anitha Chinnaswamy, deputy director of the CSI Centre and a senior lecturer in cyber security management, who has delivered multiple research and consultancy projects aimed at supporting the cybersecurity sector.
For Aston University, the industry partnership will enhance academic knowledge of cyber security management by adding depth and applied learning. In addition, Aston University MBA students, who have selected cyber security as a pathway, will have access to the BIT Group management KTP as a working case study, gaining critical, real-world insights into cyber security that will enrich their learning experience and prepare them for their future careers.
Michael Dieroff, CEO of BIT Group, said:
“As CEO of BIT Group, I am immensely proud of our partnership with Aston University through the knowledge transfer partnership.
“This collaboration not only enriches our company with cutting-edge business insights but also marks a significant milestone in our journey towards industry leadership.
“By integrating Aston University’s advanced research capabilities and our innovative spirit, we are setting new standards in cyber security solutions and redefining our market approach.
“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to excellence and our dedication to delivering unparalleled value to our clients and stakeholders.”
Dr Anitha Chinnaswamy, deputy director of the Cyber Security Innovation Research Centre at Aston University, said:
“This management KTP allows us to leverage Aston University’s critical mass of expertise in cyber security management from our industry-aligned research and consultancy to enhance BIT Group’s services, business delivery model and go-to-market strategies.”
Kumara Swamy, KTP associate and Aston MBA alumnus, said:
“Having worked across a range of large businesses, and recently completed an Aston University MBA, this management KTP gives me the freedom to apply my skills, industry knowledge and creativity to develop and deliver solutions that will drive transformation in a small business.”