The UK Autumn Budget 2026 has set out new investment in cyber resilience and AI, including plans for an AI Cyber Security Centre of Excellence in Manchester.
Guy Ellis, NCC Group CEO commented:
"A lot to digest from Wednesday’s Budget and we will share more thoughts shortly, but one thing that really stood out to me was the recognition that cyber resilience, AI and economic growth are increasingly interconnected.
There’s plenty to welcome in the investment in the National Cyber Shield, sovereign AI and strengthening the UK’s cyber resilience.
But I was particularly pleased to see Manchester chosen for the planned AI Cyber Security Centre of Excellence.
The North West has a fantastic technology ecosystem, a key part of our global resource base. We have great businesses, universities and talent here, and a real opportunity to turn that into more high-value jobs, greater national capability and stronger UK growth.
NCC Group is proud to call Manchester its birthplace, while competing and growing globally. We’re excited about the part we can play.
Cyber resilience is economic resilience. There's more support we would like to see to help leaders invest in resilience - but it’s good to see solid plans reflected in the Budget."
Guy Ellis is Chief Executive Officer of NCC Group plc. He joined the Group in 2021 as Director of Commercial Finance and has also served as Interim Managing Director of its Software Resilience business (Escode) and, most recently, its UK Cyber business. Guy served as NCC Group CFO from June 2023 until his appointment as CEO in October 2026.
As CFO, Guy led the financial transformation and simplification of the Group, including the sale of the Group’s Escode business. These roles have given him an understanding of commercial drivers and operations across the Group. He brings over 25 years’ experience in finance and commercial roles in the retail sector, including at Asda and Specsavers.
