Network security software and services provider Axent Technologies Inc has launched a European security consultancy to complement its US wing, which has seven offices and its headquarters in San Antonio, Texas. The EMEA version of SNCi (Security Networks Consulting Inc) currently has five staff, but will triple in size by this time next year, according to its managing director Michael Bacon.
SNCi will offer advice on products and design security policies with procurement of software and implementation. Bacon sees the experience of its staff as SNCi’s best selling point. The employee roles include 5 ex-military with backgrounds in information warfare and intelligence.
Markets targeted include government; information, communication and entertainment; financial services; and healthcare, where the secure storage and distribution of electronic patient records is being rapidly introduced. Bacon has personal experience in this sector. While working for Cap Gemini five years ago, he was the technical architect in charge of setting up the UK health service intranet.
Geographic areas on the agenda include the UK, Germany, France and the Nordic countries, particularly Sweden, says Bacon. SNCi Europe will set up offices in Germany and France in the next six months, although organic growth is the primary focus. After that, he mentions South Africa as a possible market. Bacon is hoping for revenue of $3.1m by the end of next year and predicts rapid growth. The security consultancy group worldwide, 40 strong now, is scheduled to top 100 in a year’s time.
