Jessica Barker

Jessica Barker is an award-winning cyber security consultant, bestselling author and one of the UK’s leading experts on the human side of cyber security. As Co-Founder, CEO and Socio-Technical Lead of Cygenta, she has transformed how organisations understand cyber risk by combining technical expertise with behavioural science. Jessica is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, exploring topics including cyber security, women in technology, online threats and digital resilience. Having delivered face-to-face cyber security awareness sessions to more than 40,000 people across 23 countries, she is renowned for making complex cyber issues engaging, accessible and actionable for audiences worldwide.

Jessica’s academic background laid the foundations for her unique approach to cybersecurity. She earned a degree, Master’s and Ph.D. specialising in sociology and civic design before applying behavioural science to the growing challenges of digital security. In 2013, she founded J L Barker Consultancy, before co-founding Cygenta, where she pioneered a people-focused approach to cyber resilience. Alongside her consultancy work, she became Chair of ClubCISO in 2019, helping to support senior information security leaders while continuing to champion improved cyber awareness and education. Jessica has also been a passionate advocate for integrating cybersecurity education into schools, speaking at events ranging from TechCon to TeenTech.

Jessica has received widespread recognition for her contribution to the cybersecurity sector. She was named among the UK’s Tech Women 50 and the Top 20 Influential Women in Cybersecurity in the UK in 2017. In 2020, she published the Amazon number one bestselling book ‘Confident Cyber Security’, helping businesses and individuals better understand online risk. Her expertise has also made her the go-to cyber security commentator for major media outlets, including BBC News, Sky News, Channel 4 News and BBC Radio. In 2024, she was awarded an MBE for services to cyber security.

Beyond her consultancy and media work, Jessica continues to shape conversations around the future of cybersecurity by highlighting the importance of human behaviour in tackling digital threats. Her engaging speaking style combines practical advice with real-world case studies, ensuring audiences leave with greater confidence in navigating today’s evolving cyber landscape. Whether speaking to corporate leaders, educators or public sector organisations, Jessica empowers people to build stronger, more resilient cyber cultures.

Jessica Barker is hired as a speaker for her rare ability to translate complex cybersecurity concepts into engaging, practical insights that resonate with every audience. Combining behavioural science with technical expertise, she delivers impactful keynote presentations on cyber resilience, online safety, women in technology and digital trust. Having spoken at major international events including TechCon and TeenTech, and with experience educating more than 40,000 people across 23 countries, Jessica equips organisations with actionable strategies to strengthen security awareness and create lasting behavioural change.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Jessica Barker’s remarkable career:

  • 2024 – Awarded an MBE for services to cyber security in recognition of her significant contribution to the industry.
  • 2020 – Published the Amazon number one bestselling book ‘Confident Cyber Security’.
  • 2019 – Appointed Chair of ClubCISO, supporting senior cybersecurity leaders across the industry.
  • 2017 – Co-founded Cygenta, becoming CEO and Socio-Technical Lead to pioneer a people-focused approach to cybersecurity.
  • 2017 – Named among the UK’s Tech Women 50 for her influence within the technology sector.
  • 2017 – Recognised as one of the Top 20 Influential Women in Cybersecurity in the UK.
  • 2013 – Founded J L Barker Consultancy, providing specialist cybersecurity and behavioural science consultancy.