NED Series by Forvis Mazars
A new space for Non-Executive Directors to connect, challenge and grow.
Enemy at the gates - How NEDs can respond to growing cyber threats
Cyber security risks are constantly changing, and boards face an unseen enemy which is well-resourced, determined and moves quickly. Join Forvis Mazars and industry experts for an evening of insight into how NEDs can rise to the growing cyber challenge.
It’s been said there are now two types of companies – those which have been hacked, and those which will be hacked. Rapid technology changes, AI proliferation and global regulatory scrutiny create an unprecedented level of pressure on boards to develop robust, multi-faceted responses. But among this risk there lies incredible opportunity. So how can NEDs help their companies to face the new digital frontier?
As part of our NED Series, this event will explore evolving cyber threats and what it means for NEDs. This session will cover:
- The latest trends in cyber risk and regulatory expectations;
- Lessons learned from real-life incidents;
- Practical steps NEDs can take to strengthen governance and resilience.
Created in response to feedback from NEDs across our network, the series offers topical insights, practical briefings, and space to share experiences with fellow board members. It’s a chance to learn from others grappling with similar challenges and support each other as part of a curated community.
Our expert lineup offers diverse perspectives from strategic board insights to operational cyber resilience.
Our expert lineup brings diverse perspectives and offers insights drawn from real-world cyber incidents.
Headline speakers
Michael Mills, Director of Finance Operations, Jaguar Land Rover
An accomplished finance executive with over a decade of experience in the automotive and manufacturing industries. Michael will draw on his own experience from navigating a cyber-attack in a global organisation.
Rob Elsey, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Co-op
Rob previously held significant positions at the Bank of England, including Executive Director and CIO from October 2015 to October 2021, and Head of Technology. Rob will share strategic insights on building resilience and managing risk at board level, looking back on his experience leading recovery from a major cyber incident and driving technology transformation in complex organisations.
They’ll be joined by an expert panel featuring:
Raz Akbar, Non-Executive Director, Southwestern Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
Raz brings significant experience in governance across healthcare and the public sector. He will join the conversation given his recent experience navigating a cyber incident in critical services.
Rebecca Mayo, Deputy CEO, Lansons
With over 25 years’ experience in communications, Rebecca advises leadership teams on reputational challenges and will provide a vital PR perspective on how boards can manage stakeholder trust.
Anton Yunussov, Head of Cyber Security, Forvis Mazars
Anton has over 17 years of experience helping organisations tackle complex security challenges. Drawing on his extensive consultancy background, he will offer practical guidance on emerging cyber threats, regulatory expectations, and how boards can embed robust cyber strategies for the year ahead.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, 5 February 2026
Time: 17:30 – 20:00
Location: Forvis Mazars office, 30 Old Bailey, London, EC4M 7AU
Event agenda
17:30 – Registration & networking (canapes and refreshments)
18:00 – Welcome & opening remarks
18:05 – Keynote: Cybersecurity risks and case study (TBC)
18:25 – Panel discussion: featuring industry experts and NEDs
18:40 – Audience Q&A
19:00 – Networking & drinks
Why attend?
This is more than an event, it’s part of a growing community. The NED Series by Forvis Mazars explores the issues that matter most to today’s boards, from AI and climate risk to cybersecurity and stakeholder expectations. Each session is shaped by NEDs themselves, addressing real boardroom challenges.
Missed our NED Series launch event? Watch the highlights below.
Spaces are limited, so register your interest before they're gone.
*Recording: The session will be filmed and recorded for use across our website and social media channels. If you would prefer not to be included in any filming or recording, please let us know in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements.
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Key contacts
Asam Malik Head of Growth: Large Clients - Newcastle
NED Series by Forvis Mazars
A new space for Non-Executive Directors to connect, challenge and grow.