Melanie Oldham awarded OBE in New Years honours list

For her outstanding contributions to cybersecurity under the YCSC (Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster), CEO of Bob’s Business, Melanie Oldham has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s 2022 New Year’s Honours List.

The award recognises Melanie’s service in helping develop cybersecurity awareness across Yorkshire and the rest of the United Kingdom.

Melanie’s work in cybersecurity is well-known through her innovative company Bob’s Business, founded in 2007, which has helped transform cybersecurity awareness amongst organisations across the UK from its base in Barnsley, South Yorkshire.

Hailing from Yorkshire, Melanie found that many of the opportunities found in the South simply weren’t available in the North of England and set about to change that for the better.

Melanie recognised an opportunity to encourage cross-collaboration of cybersecurity sector organisations and founded the YCSC, a self-funded non-profit organisation in Yorkshire which aims to build awareness around cyber and increase career opportunities in cybersecurity for young people by improving talent and increasing school engagement on the subject of cybersecurity.

Speaking on her recognition in the New Year honours list, Melanie stated: “I am truly honoured to be awarded an OBE for services to cybersecurity.

As a woman in a largely male-dominated industry, it is my firm belief it’s crucial that we continue to give opportunities and support to those who want to enter the sector, and to view talent without preconceptions. To be recognised as a leader in cybersecurity sends a positive message that, regardless of their background, a career in cybersecurity is possible for anyone.”

Temp