It’s an absolute pleasure to be taking part in this “women in business and tech” webinar, and I’m thrilled to share a bit about my background, career to date and experience with you.

As the CEO and visionary behind Keen People an IT & Cyber Security recruitment agency, Director of a cyber security consultancy and a founder & board member for a not-for-profit cyber security community group for Oxfordshire, called OXCyber, I really do live up to my surname – Keen by name, Keen by nature! 🤩

Throughout my career, I’ve developed a keen eye for working with people, assembling exceptional talent in the tech and cybersecurity field and championing DEI for underrepresented people within tech and cyber space. My journey has been shaped by extensive experience working with people and providing strategic leadership.

Equipped with a degree in psychology and a forensic master’s, I’ve dedicated myself to unravelling the intricacies of human behaviour and motivations. This commitment enables me to not only ensure that each individual and team member possesses exceptional skills but also aligns seamlessly with our organisational culture, thereby enhancing our collective brilliance. I firmly believe that a vibrant and engaging work environment is the breeding ground for innovation and unparalleled success.

Throughout my career, I’ve also been deeply committed to meaningful volunteer work. As a board member for Independent Monitoring Boards, I served as a watchdog at HMPYOI Cookham Wood, advising on fairness and humanity in the treatment of individuals in custody by the courts. I further extended my impact as a mentor for Addaction and Catch22, assisting individuals within the criminal justice system and their families in overcoming drug and alcohol misuse challenges, and aiding those in prison with administrative tasks and parole board proceedings. And more recently volunteering for Children Heard & Seen, who support children, young people, and families with parents in prison. These experiences have reinforced my dedication to human rights and a holistic approach to supporting individuals in need, aligning with my core values of fairness and justice.

Thank you for joining this webinar, and I look forward to an engaging and inspiring discussion on the intersection of women, business, and technology. Together, we can unlock countless opportunities and shape a brighter future.

Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) scheme

The Growth Hub programme operates a Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) scheme. All SMEs which receive support under this programme are being aided under the UK Subsidy Control Act (2022) and The Subsidy Control (Gross Cash Amount and Gross Cash Equivalent) Regulations (2022 No. 1186).

MFA allows a beneficiary to receive up to £315,000 of Subsidy over a three-fiscal year period (i.e. the current and previous two fiscal years). The value of MFA given is the gross cash amount or the gross cash equivalent of the subsidy. The MFA value of this webinar is £361.70.