Richard Byers

Richard Byers has extensive work experience in various roles related to risk management, compliance, software development, information/cybersecurity, and IT operations.

From 2022 to the present, Richard is currently serving as the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at Freedom Fibre. In this role, they are responsible for protecting the company from various risks that may affect its business plan, including business, regulatory, technological, security, and market-related issues. Additionally, they are responsible for overseeing software development, information/cybersecurity, enterprise IT, compliance, and HSE (health, safety, and environment) functions.

Prior to their current role, Richard worked at Enghouse Networks from 2016 to 2021. During their tenure, they served as the Director of Hosting and Information Security, where they were responsible for managing hosting operations and information security across European divisions. Richard also provided thought leadership in the information security field.

Before joining Enghouse Networks, Richard worked at CTI Group from 2006 to 2020, where they held the position of Head of Operations. In this role, they were responsible for the delivery of SaaS services, software delivery, SLAs, data center management, and IT teams. Richard also oversaw data protection and physical/electronic security.

Prior to their time at CTI Group, Richard worked at Ryder Systems Ltd from 2000 to 2006. Richard started as a Project Manager and later became the Operations Manager. As Operations Manager, they oversaw teams responsible for technical support, IT, and data processing. Richard also played a role in presales work, negotiating Service Level Agreements, and managing data security.

At the beginning of their career, Richard worked at Intec for Business Ltd and Intec for Business as a Business Manager from 1995 to 2000. In this role, they managed multiple key accounts, including support work, new development, and staffing. Richard was also responsible for IT and account management within the company.

Overall, Richard Byers has demonstrated expertise in risk management, compliance, information security, IT operations, and team management throughout their extensive career.

Richard Byers earned a BSc (hons) degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Central Lancashire. Richard attended the university from 1991 to 1996. Prior to that, they completed their A Levels in Maths, Physics, Electronics, and Music at Runshaw College from 1985 to 1987. In terms of additional certifications, they obtained the Certified Data Protection Officer (C-DPO) and UK General Data Protection Regulation Foundation (GDPR F) from IBITGQ in July 2022. Richard also holds the ITIL Foundation Level certification from IBITGQ, which they obtained in June 2006. Additionally, Richard has an ISO27001:2013 Lead Implementor certification from IBITGQ, although the specific month and year of obtaining this certification are not available.