Name: Bruce Wilson

Job title: Sales Executive

Q. How would you describe your role with Cyan?

My role is to engage with law enforcement officers who need a tool to rapidly triage devices for known illegal content. This starts with an initial call to understand their specific circumstances and talk about what capabilities our technology brings. Then it moves on to a trial or an initial sale to use operationally. How the tools fit into their specific organisation is key to getting the most out of our unique technology.

Q. Tell us about your career journey that led you to Cyan

After studying Economics followed by an MSc in Strategic Studies at University, I joined the Royal Marines for eight years. I wanted to make a positive difference in the world, as well as experience the adventure and travel. With a growing family, I sought out more stability and moved to the corporate world. I then worked in financial services as a project manager, which built up my experience working in a civilian context and the challenges faced by private companies.

Q. What attracted you to join Cyan?

At a networking event I met our Head of Business Development, Graham Little. He spoke with passion about what Cyan is doing, as well as it being a small but growing company. I was keen to work for a company seeking to make a positive change and Cyan has that in buckets. From there it was simply trying to demonstrate that I was the ideal candidate for the job and getting around the small matter of a global pandemic!

Q. What aspects of your job and working for Cyan do you enjoy the most?

I most enjoy the moment in a demo when a law enforcement officer, who has probably seen dozens of products claiming to do what we do, recognises that we bring something innovative and ‘game changing’ to the world. Getting the feedback that a suspect has been arrested or a child safeguarded with the help of our tools is why the company exists.

Q. Do you have any goals or targets in mind for the future with Cyan?

Watching our expansion into North America and the UK maturing as a market has been a great experience in my first year. More generally, there is no limit to ambitions of the company. The challenges we face are global and as a company we are seeking to rise to them.

Q. What advice would you give to anyone starting out in your line of work?

Take as many opportunities as you can and enjoy the experience. We’re at an exciting juncture where we still feel small, but have the experience and technology to make a big difference.

Q. If you could instantly have one new skill or talent, what would it be?

Speaking fluently in several languages would be awesome. My French is passable, but to be able to speak several languages would be fantastic for understanding different cultures.

Q. What do you like to do in your spare time away from work?

Ha, I have three kids now so that takes up most of my time. When I do get time away, it is usually in the hills, and as the kids get older they more frequently come on our little micro adventures though.