Managed services provider Advantage has announced the appointment of Naas Nell as Service Delivery Manager in its expanding Cyber Security division. In an industry where cybersecurity is a critical component of every organisation’s technology requirements, Nell joins a team experienced in securing the data estates of Advantage’s clients across New Zealand. Advantage’s MD Brad Pearpoint explains that despite the current economic climate, cybersecurity remains an essential aspect of every organisation’s technology requirements. With cybercrime on the rise, organisations are looking for more efficient and cost-effective solutions to keep their data and systems safe. He anticipates a heightened demand for managed security services that offer flexibility and leverage the latest technologies.

Pearpoint welcomes Nell to the team, praising his wealth of experience across all aspects of the ICT channel and his combination of commercial experience and technical insight. Nell, who started his career in information technology in South Africa more than two decades ago, has worked across end customers, resellers, distribution, and vendor environments, including stints with IBM, HPE, and Lenovo. Describing himself as a technology enthusiast, Nell is driven by a keen interest in using technology as an enabler to improve businesses and individual quality of life.

Nell’s appointment comes as a growing number of organisations have experienced cyber-attacks, with the cost to business estimated at $250 million in the past two years. As Nell notes, even the slightest hiccup in IT infrastructure can derail operations for any organisation, making good security essential. Advantage's security team aims to provide quality service to help clients focus on their core business with confidence that their ICT environments are safe with minimised risk.

Nell is pleased to join an ambitious and growing company that places customer satisfaction at the core of its values. He highlights cultural alignment as a driving factor for both, with New Zealand offering the opportunity for families to live their best lives. With its stunning scenery, friendly people, vibrant culture, and dynamic business outlook, Nell looks forward to making the most of this opportunity.

Advantage’s expansion into Cyber Security comes as demand for managed security services increases due to the threat of cybercrime, making Nell’s appointment crucial to the company's continued success.