Bev McGowan

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT BEV MCGOWAN

I am a CEO, founder, and governance specialist with over 25 years’ experience leading transformation across data governance, cyber security, information risk, and regulatory compliance in highly regulated environments.My career spans financial services, education, and critical national infrastructure, where I have operated at board and executive level, delivered large-scale regulatory and data programmes, and built governance functions from the ground up. I’ve led multi-million-pound transformation initiatives, acted as Group DPO and Information Security Officer, and worked closely with regulators, auditors, and boards to embed effective, proportionate governance.Today, I am the Founder and CEO of Specialist Skills Hub, where I focus on solving one of the sector’s biggest challenges: access to skilled, diverse talent in digital, data, AI, cyber and GRC. Through workforce consulting, apprenticeships, training, and employer partnerships, we help organisations build sustainable capability while creating real career pathways into the profession.I remain deeply involved in AI, data and cyber governance, supporting organisations to navigate emerging risks, regulatory expectations, and ethical implementation translating complex requirements into practical, business-ready solutions. PECB and BCS Certified Trainer in Data and AI. Certified ISO42001 Lead Implementer Trainer and Consultant.I am particularly passionate about developing people and widening participation in the profession. Mentoring, apprenticeships, and creating opportunities for women and underrepresented groups are central to my work and values.Specialist Skills Hub 2019 – PresentDirector of AI and Business TransformationCEO and FounderTogether Money 2025 – Present DPONorth West Cyber Resilience Centre 20••••22Chair of Cyber Expert GroupSalus / Computime 20••••22Global DPOHOST Media City 20••••21Director of Cyber SecurityRoyal London Group 2016 – 2019Group Head of Data GovernanceGroup GDPR Programme LeadGroup Information Security OfficerOne Advice Group 20••••15GRC ConsultantHoist Finance 20••••15Head of Risk and ComplianceArrow Global 20••••14GRC ConsultantDeloitte / Lloyds Banking Group 2013IT Auditor / ConsultantCooperative Bank 2007 – 2013Risk and Regulatory Specialist / Project ManagerIT Risk and Control ManagerIT Transformation Project ManagerCitigroup 1996 – 2007Head of IT Project Governance, Quality & SDLC – EMEA RegionTechnology Integration and Support ManagerIT Governance and Quality ManagerIT and Telecoms SupportApprentice