The company’s contribution to the local job market was recognised by a recent visit from Myles Stacey OBE, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister. The visit included an in-depth discussion with Emerge Digital’s CEO, Nigel Church, on its apprenticeship scheme, its newly initiated graduate programme, and the increasing influence of AI in today’s workplace, particularly in the South West, which has become a cyber and technology hub in the UK. 

 

Emerge Digital’s new hires include Graduate Software Engineer, Sergei Drew, who will be integral in executing projects within Emerge Digital’s innovation division, and two Graduate Sales Executives, Max Wilkins and Fergal O’Kane, to help the business continue to grow its client base. 

These new hires come in response to the brand’s continued growth, having increased its revenue by more than 30% in the last 12 months. After rebranding last year from First Solution to Emerge Digital, the launch of its new service and product lines such as its AI Consultancy service and OnyxSecure package, have acted as catalysts for growth, with the brand’s client base increasing by 30%. 

The company has also made critical appointments at board level, including renowned Cyber Academic and government advisor, Professor Richard Benham, who joined as a Non-Executive Chairman. Phil Ball also joined the team as Head of Innovation in May, to spearhead the technology development arm of the business. These hires have marked a 35% increase in team size at the firm in the last 12 months. 

The company’s success this year has also been recognised in a number of local and industry awards, with Emerge Digital named the South West’s Technology Solutions Agency of the Year 2023 in the Small Business Awards 2023. The brand was also named a finalist in the Cyber Business of the Year category and shortlisted in the Customer Excellence category at the SoGlos Gloucestershire Business Awards 2023. 

Nigel Church, CEO of Emerge Digital, said: “This year marks a significant milestone for Emerge Digital. Our continued growth and the infusion of fresh, talented graduates into our workforce embody the success we’ve strived for and the bright future ahead. 

“Our history of progressing people from apprentices to fully fledged developers, executives and engineers has given us great experience in helping people find their way into a career in technology. Our graduate scheme is the subsequent step in our commitment to creating jobs for the next generation of innovators in the South West.” 

 

About Emerge Digital 

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation business and Managed Services Provider (MSP) which provides solutions to SMEs that drive efficiency, competitiveness, and profit. Using comprehensive solutions, including outsourced IT support, cyber security, cloud infrastructure, and innovative technologies like AI, process automation, and data visualisation – Emerge Digital enables businesses to invest in technology that supports them in achieving their goals. 

DEYA, an independent brewery, situated in Cheltenham, has carved a niche for itself in the South West region and beyond brewing hoppy beers, lagers, traditional UK styles and mixed fermentation ales. Since 2019 the brewery’s team and production volumes have both grown threefold and DEYA plans to continue to grow organically over the coming years towards its capacity on the Lansdown Industrial Estate site. 

As the brand’s presence increases across the UK, so does the complexity of managing its digital landscape, which DEYA hopes to work closely on with Emerge Digital through their partnership. Also based in Cheltenham, Emerge Digital will work with DEYA to build on its existing IT support, reviewing the current suitability of its modern workplace cloud platforms and driving the enablement of its technology stack and cyber security posture.  

The team at Emerge will implement cloud solutions that improve the brewery’s employee satisfaction in terms of productivity and efficiency, which in turn will enhance the customer experience. In addition, its security solutions will reinforce the brewery’s cyber security stature, ensuring its data and assets are protected across its digital infrastructure.  

Commenting on the partnership, John Lord, Chief Operating Officer of DEYA Brewing Company said: “At DEYA, we’ve always been driven by a commitment to excellence, both in the beers we craft and the way we operate our business. Our partnership with Emerge Digital is a natural extension of that commitment.” 

He continued: “Their pragmatic and innovative approach promises not only to provide us with the technological tools we need but also to guide us in using them effectively. It’s not just about adapting to the digital age; it’s about striving to be best in class in all that we do.” 

CEO of Emerge Digital, Nigel Church, said: “At Emerge Digital, we see immense potential in DEYA’s vision, and we are thrilled to be part of its growth journey. Our tailored solutions are designed to empower DEYA, not just in overcoming present challenges but also in setting a path for a future where technology is harnessed to its fullest. Together, we aim to brew success, one innovative solution at a time.” 

 

Nigel Church, CEO of Emerge Digital (L) and John Lord, COO of DEYA Brewing Company (R)

 

Press contact: Callum Gable or Verity Blake at HeadOn PR 

emergedigital@headonpr.co.uk | 01242 335 246/07920 792183    

 

About Emerge Digital 

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation business and Managed Services Provider (MSP) which provides solutions to SMEs that drive efficiency, competitiveness, and profit. Using comprehensive solutions, including outsourced IT support, cyber security, cloud infrastructure, and innovative technologies like AI, process automation, and data visualisation – Emerge Digital enables businesses to invest in technology that supports them in achieving their goals.  

About DEYA Brewing Company 

DEYA Brewing Company is an independent brewery in Cheltenham, UK. We focus on hoppy beers, lagers, traditional UK styles and mixed fermentation ales. We strive to make world class beer. 

Our on-site Taproom is at the heart of our brewery and is open every week for fresh tins and delicious draft pours. 

We take a holistic approach to business, striving to be the best employer we possibly can be, while operating in a fair, sustainable and human driven way. 

Keep on Crocin’ 

This year’s Government Cyber Security Breaches Survey reported an increasing cyber hygiene challenge among small to medium sized companies since the pandemic. The number of micro businesses using up-to-date malware protection has dropped from 81% to 74% in two years, while there are now fewer medium sized firms with security controls on devices compared to last year. In a separate report, 38% admitted to having insufficient budget to adequately protect themselves against cyber-attacks. 

As a Managed Service Provider (MSP), Emerge Digital will now incorporate Red Maple’s world-leading attack surface management solution, FractalScan Surface, into its recently launched OnyxSecure product suite, designed to bring enhanced enterprise-level cyber security to small businesses at more affordable prices.  

“Red Maple recognises the indispensable role MSPs play in protecting small businesses from the relentless threat of cyber-attacks,” said Rob Stemp from Red Maple Technologies. “Our strategy revolves around equipping businesses with a comprehensive understanding of their cyber risks. By partnering with leading MSPs, such as Emerge Digital, we aim to extend our reach and provide our state-of-the-art attack surface management platform to a significant number of SMEs.” 

The alliance marks the first time Red Maple’s FractalScan Surface will be available through an MSP with OnyxSecure backed by a dedicated team of highly certified cyber security engineers. Not only is it bringing together two companies that share a keen focus on cyber security but who also have common roots in Cheltenham’s vibrant business community, both located in the heart of the town in Eagle Tower.  

Tom Henson, Emerge Digital’s Managing Director, added: “Our shared values and vision make this collaboration with Red Maple Technologies a natural choice. It’s a testament to the innovative spirit within the Eagle Tower business community.” 

“Security shouldn’t be a privilege confined to big corporations,” continued Henson. “This partnership allows us to bring top-tier security to all businesses, irrespective of their size. We look forward to helping our clients optimise their cyber security posture through the integration of FractalScan Surface.” 

 

 

Utilising FractalScan Surface’s continuous scanning capabilities, Emerge Digital can identify and proactively manage potential risks, significantly reducing clients’ vulnerability to cyber-attacks. This partnership is built for mutual growth, with feedback from Emerge Digital’s engineers directly influencing FractalScan’s future development. 

“We’re always excited to see Eagle Tower residents collaborating and innovating together. This partnership between Emerge Digital and Red Maple Technologies exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and innovation we foster within our business community,” said Cherie Lampitt, Building Manager of Eagle Tower. “By leveraging their combined expertise, they are not only enhancing cyber security for SMEs, but also reinforcing Eagle Tower’s reputation as a hub for pioneering tech enterprises.” 

 

Press contact: Callum Gable or Verity Blake at HeadOn PR   

emergedigital@headonpr.co.uk | 01242 335246/07920 792183   

 

About Emerge Digital   

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation business and Managed Services Provider (MSP) which provides solutions to SMEs that drive efficiency, competitiveness, and profit. Using comprehensive solutions, including outsourced IT support, cyber security, cloud infrastructure, and innovative technologies like process automation and data visualisation – Emerge Digital enables businesses to invest in technology that supports them in achieving their goals. 
  

About Red Maple Technologies   

Red Maple Technologies is a cybersecurity consultancy that uses its knowledge and expertise to develop innovative and cutting-edge cybersecurity products that help keep people safe online. 

Founded in 2018 by ex-defence and intelligence engineers with over 4 decades of experience, they empower their teams to look for innovative solutions to common cybersecurity challenges. This ethos led to the development of FractalScan Surface their industry leading attack surface management platform.

Located in Cheltenham England, with a London based team their location and expertise perfectly positions them to handle a variety of cybersecurity challenges. 

Finalists in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport – UK’s Most Innovative Cyber SME 2022. To learn more visit: https://redmaple.tech

Professor Richard Benham who advises governments and organisations worldwide on both the risks and opportunities technology brings as well as being a leading academic in the field of Cyber Security, Defence and Innovation and Jonathan Graves, a proven leader in sustainable technology solutions, both join to guide the managed IT service provider through its next stage of growth.

Last year Emerge Digital rebranded from First Solution, reflecting its client-centric approach to helping companies emerge as digitally enabled businesses. Offering a full suite of technology solutions including outsourced IT support, cloud services and cyber security, the business has grown 21% over the last 12 months, making strategic senior hires including Phil Ball, who joined as Head of Innovation in May.

The company intends to double its revenue in the next two years with Richard and Jonathan set to be instrumental in achieving this ambitious target.

Professor Richard Benham brings over thirty-five years’ experience in Banking security, Cross-border Policing, Academia, and Business. He is currently the Patron of The National Museum of Computing at Bletchley Park, a Non-Executive Director of Systal Technology and Non-Executive Chair of TechTalent UK and Lockdown Cyber Security. As well as being a best-selling author of spy thrillers Professor Benham is also an armed forces veteran and founder of The Cyber Trust, a charity to help protect vulnerable groups online.

Richard’s appointment will significantly bolster Emerge Digital’s capabilities and reputation in cyber security and innovation. Richard was the world’s first formal Professor of Cyber Security Management having published the Cyber Ripple Theory in 2013, which defines the human aspect of an attack and is currently the visiting Professor at Abertay University of Dundee for Cyber Innovation, Trust and Ethics.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Benham said: “As an experienced Non-Executive and chair for many businesses I am excited by the increasing benefits that Emerge Digital will bring to its clients as the company evolves and grows in what is a dynamic marketplace. With an outstanding management team and clear vision, it is a privilege to help steer the business to its full potential.”

Jonathan Graves also joins Emerge Digital as non-executive director with more than 30 years of experience within the sustainable packaging and logistics industries. His track record of building and delivering environmentally friendly, technology-driven business solutions, combined with his financial acumen, will be instrumental in driving Emerge Digital’s commercial advantage and securing funding for future growth.

Jonathan Graves added: “As a client of Emerge Digital I was always impressed at how they develop practical technology solutions that add real value to their clients’ businesses, and I look forward to helping the team develop the business further at this exciting time within the technology sector.”

Nigel Church, Emerge Digital CEO also commented: “Business is about people. In Tom Henson, our Managing Director, we’ve got what I believe to be one of the best people in the industry. His eye to detail and his sales and marketing experience has really allowed us to escalate our position, coupled with our rebrand to Emerge Digital. With Richard and Jonathan now on board, we can take the business to another level and continue to accelerate at pace. I look forward to seeing the continued success and growth of Emerge Digital.”

Jonathan Graves (left) and Professor Richard Benham (right)

 

About Emerge Digital

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation business and Managed Services Provider (MSP) which provides solutions to SMEs that drive efficiency, competitiveness, and profit. Using comprehensive solutions, including outsourced IT support, cyber security, cloud infrastructure, and innovative technologies like process automation and data visualisation – Emerge Digital enables businesses to invest in technology that supports them in achieving their goals.

Representing an exclusive league of the world’s top IT firms, the award was presented at the high-profile Channel Partners Europe event during London Tech Week. Our CEO, Nigel Church, had the privilege of accepting this prestigious accolade at County Hall, London, on the 13th of June, 2023.

This year, we placed #479 in the global rankings, and #38 in the EMEA region.

 

What This Achievement Signifies

The Channel Futures MSP 501 list is a globally recognised benchmark of excellence in the IT realm. The chosen MSPs are those that display consistent growth, possess effective and implementable business strategies, and go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.

The international ranking for the second consecutive year further amplifies our position as a preeminent technology partner. It bears testimony to our dedication, our depth of knowledge, and our relentless commitment to service excellence.

A Word from Our Leaders

Our CEO, Nigel Church, reflected on the achievement: “To be consecutively acknowledged on the MSP 501 list underscores our team’s unwavering focus on our mission – to empower businesses through technology. The award reflects not just our growth, but also our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.”

Tom Henson, our Managing Director, added, “This repeated recognition is a testament to our shared belief in pushing boundaries and striving for better. It’s the outcome of our collective efforts to be more than a service provider, to be a true technology partner for our clients.”

 

Unyielding Dedication, Forward-Looking Approach

Our back-to-back successes in the MSP 501 listing embody our determination to pioneer in the realm of IT services. Emerge Digital is constantly evolving, persistently pushing the envelope and shaping the future of our clients’ businesses through strategic technology solutions.

To discover more about how our award-winning services can empower your business, don’t hesitate to contact us today.