Pete Cooper is a globally recognised cybersecurity leader, strategist and keynote speaker working at the intersection of government, industry and international security. Named Cyber Citizen of the Year at the UK National Cyber Awards, he is known for shaping cyber policy, building cross-sector collaboration and translating complex security challenges into actionable leadership insight. His career spans senior government roles, global advisory positions and pioneering industry initiatives.
Pete’s early career was defined by strategic leadership in cybersecurity and defence. He played a central role in shaping the UK Government’s first Cyber Security Strategy and later served as Deputy Director of Cyber Defence at the Cabinet Office, where he led national cyber defence priorities and worked across government to strengthen the UK’s resilience to cyber threats. His experience as the government’s cybersecurity lead established him as a trusted authority in national and international cybersecurity.
Alongside his public-sector leadership, Pete has built and advised influential private-sector and global initiatives. He founded Aerospace Village to address cyber risk in aviation and aerospace, and the UK Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge to develop the next generation of cyber leaders. He has served as Cyber Strategy Advisor to the International Air Transport Association, Non-resident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, CEO of Pavisade and Managing Partner at C5 Capital. He holds a Master’s degree in Cyberspace Operations from Cranfield University and is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.
As a speaker, Pete brings authority, clarity and strategic depth to conversations about cyber risk, leadership and international security. Drawing on experience across Microsoft, government, aviation and global policy forums, he helps leaders understand cyber threats in a broader geopolitical and organisational context. His talks equip audiences to make better decisions, build resilient systems and lead confidently in an increasingly contested digital world.
