Cloud4 reports 20% turnover boost after cyber security pivot

A Leigh-based technology company has reported a 20% increase in turnover following the restructuring of its services. Cloud4, which previously focused on cloud hosting and IT support, has transitioned into the cyber security sector, leading to the reported turnover of GBP £1.1 million for 2024, up nearly 20% from the previous year.

The company has closely collaborated with US cyber security experts at Huntress, introducing the 'Protect My 365' product in 2023. This product aims to combat the growing number of cyber-security breaches affecting Office 365 users. The 'Protect My 365' suite integrates Huntress's existing monitoring and response service, "MDR for Microsoft 365," along with two other core services to form a comprehensive protection solution for Office 365.

Cloud4 is among the few UK companies offering such an extensive Office 365 protection service. The 'Protect My 365' service provides continuous 24/7 monitoring and response, addressing modern cyber threats more effectively.

Phil Donoghue and Mike Tunstall founded Cloud4 in 2009, initially offering Cloud Services and IT support. Recognising the rapid technological advancements and the rising cyber security threats, they opted to pivot the business in 2019, becoming certified cyber security specialists. Cloud4 has since become one of about 300 certification bodies for the National Cyber Security Centre's Cyber Essential Scheme.

The restructuring and subsequent launch of new products have been supported by the company's long-standing accountancy and advisory firm, JS. This partnership has been crucial throughout Cloud4's development, providing strategic counsel that helped propel the company's growth.

In response to increasing demand, Cloud4 plans to recruit more security analysts. Additionally, the firm has recently established a partnership with Edge Hill University, focusing on supporting the School of Computing and IT. This collaboration is expected to lead to graduate recruitment in the near future.

Phil Donoghue, CEO of Cloud4, acknowledged the swift pace of technological changes and the associated cyber risks. "Since we founded the business in 2009, technology has moved quicker than many companies can keep up with, bringing a worrying increase in cyber risks," he stated. Donoghue highlighted the rising number of cyber-security breaches involving Office 365 despite stringent security settings. "We were determined to come up with a solution not just to prevent breaches but to spot them and stop them when they occur. That's what Protect My 365 does, and we're immensely proud of the solution we have today," he added.

The pandemic provided Cloud4 with the opportunity to strategically plan their next steps. They focused on enhancing their business in response to evolving security threats, with key decisions supported by JS, an accountancy and advisory firm that has been a key partner for the past 15 years.

James Wood, accounts partner at JS, praised the company's strategic decisions. "Choosing to restructure your business is an incredibly important decision that can reap a lot of rewards when done right. That's clearly the case with Phil and his team," Wood remarked. He attributed the firm's success to its adaptability and Donoghue's dedication, which have been pivotal in the company's growth.

Phil Donoghue and Mike Tunstall look forward to continuing their growth trajectory, supported by their strategic partnerships and ongoing commitment to addressing modern cyber-security challenges.