Chesterfield cyber security expert shares lessons in leadership and purpose on international podcast
A Chesterfield-based cyber security expert has represented the region on the global stage after making his debut on the internationally recognised Heimdal® The MSP Security Playbook podcast. Kevin Walker, founder of Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions and a proud Chesterfield Champion, was invited to join host Jacob Hazelbaker to discuss leadership, purpose, and the human side of cyber security - particularly in the education sector.
In the episode, Kevin explored how thought leaders such as Chris Voss, Dr Jessica Barker MBE, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Simon Sinek have shaped both his professional ethos and his personal outlook.
“From Chris Voss, I took the idea of the Black Swan - the reminder that what you don’t know can change everything,” Kevin explained. “For us, that also means exceeding expectations: finding those unseen opportunities to deliver more, protect better and surprise our clients with what’s possible. That’s our ethos.”
He also credited Dr Jessica Barker with influencing his people-first approach to cyber security, shifting focus away from labels like “the weakest link” and toward empowering individuals as the strongest line of defence.
Drawing on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s call to “break the glass” and Simon Sinek’s message to “find your why,” Kevin discussed the importance of leading with purpose.
“My ‘why’ isn’t about getting rich or making headlines - it’s about making sure our clients don’t become the headlines for the wrong reasons,” he added.
This milestone marks Kevin’s first-ever podcast and first on-camera appearance, an experience he describes as both nerve-wracking and rewarding.
“I’ve always shied away from being on camera, but Heimdal’s invitation was the nudge I needed to step outside my comfort zone,” he said. “It’s helped me connect with people in a completely new way.”
With more than 20 years of experience as a Network Manager in primary schools, Kevin has dedicated his career to supporting education and building digital resilience across the region. Through Black Swan, he now provides proactive, people-focused cyber security solutions to clients across the UK.
🎧 The episode is available now on all major platforms