Alex McGowan
Penetration Tester
Alex is a penetration tester with over three years of experience. He moved into IT in 2023 after switching paths and has since worked across a range of testing engagements, helping organisations to identify security issues and improve their overall security posture.
Alex also has experience supporting organisations with security compliance and ensuring they meet essential baseline standards.
Outside of work, Alex enjoys playing guitar and watching rugby league.
Kurtis Markie
Penetration Tester
Kurtis started his IT career in 2017, building a solid technical foundation through roles in Software Engineering, Network Administration, and DevOps. That broad experience gives him an edge in his current role as a Penetration Tester, where knowing how systems are built, deployed, and managed helps him find vulnerabilities that others might miss. With a background across multiple domains, he brings a well-rounded perspective to every assessment.
Being a part of the Penetration Testing team, Kurtis handles the technical side of security assessments - identifying and validating weaknesses across a wide range of environments.
When he's not ethically breaking into systems, Kurtis trains Brazilian jiu-jitsu, enjoys weekend airsoft games, and playing piano.
Abbas Jacob
Penetration Tester
Abbas is a cybersecurity professional with over 10 years of experience. Fluent in Arabic and English, he transitioned into the field after serving as an interpreter for the UK Ministry of Defence. He has worked with a range of companies to deliver cybersecurity services, helping organisations across multiple sectors proactively strengthen their security posture.
Outside of work, Abbas enjoys going to the gym, playing the guitar, and camping.
Anastasia Aspioti
Security Consultant
Anastasia is a Security Consultant delivering security solutions to public sector clients, with experience across a range of Cyber Security roles and specialising in cloud and hybrid cloud implementations. Known for her pragmatic, risk-based approach, she offers solutions that enable organisations to achieve their objectives while managing risk effectively, recognising that good security supports delivery rather than obstructing it.
Outside of work, Anastasia enjoys baking, playing board games with friends and exploring food from around the world.
James Swindell
Cyber Security Analyst
James is a Cyber Security Analyst specialising in threat intelligence, vulnerability assessment, and helping organisations strengthen their security posture. He works with companies to identify risks and implement practical security measures to protect against cyber threats. He also supports organisations in attaining recognised cyber security certifications such as Cyber Essentials. James is committed to continuous learning and staying up to date with the latest developments in the industry.
Outside of work, James enjoys travelling, playing football, long-distance runs and watching films. He values staying active, exploring new places, and continuing to learn.
Sean Fahey
Security Analyst
Sean is a Security Analyst with a background in the Parachute Regiment, HM Prison Service, and overseas security contracting in Afghanistan and Iraq. With 9 years' experience in cybersecurity, he is a Cyber Essentials Plus Assessor and IASME Cyber Assurance Assessor, specialising in security assessments, compliance, and helping organisations achieve recognised security certifications.
Drawing on his experience in both physical and cyber security, Sean takes a practical approach to protecting people, systems, and business operations.
Outside of work, Sean enjoys supporting Bolton Wanderers, fishing, playing golf, and spending time with his family.
Andy Stafford
Senior Digital Marketing Executive
Andy is a Senior Digital Marketing Executive with over 20 years of experience orchestrating multi-channel growth strategies and leading high-performing teams across the North West. Having driven sustained digital transformations for major national and regional brands like Connells Group and Marketing Manchester, he specialises in technical and content SEO, paid media campaign optimisation, social channel architecture, and advanced reporting. He is an expert in using tools like GA4, Google Search Console, Semrush, Moz, and various content management systems.
Outside of his professional work, Andy is an avid gardener at his local allotment, an enthusiastic gamer, and a proud grandfather to two grandchildren.