Major-General Jonathan Shaw

Major-General Jonathan Shaw, the first-ever Head of the Defence Cyber Security Programme at the Ministry of Defence, is an eminent figure in the British Military. Transferring his skillset developed over three decades in the army, into a pioneering role in cyber security, Jonathan has unparalleled experience in operations, leadership, and strategic development, which has since led him into business advisory roles and speaking engagements. Speaking around the world to audiences of a range of demographics, Jonathan’s expertise has transformed organisations with his progressive leadership style and corporate influence.

A revered figure in the Military of Defence, Jonathan first worked in resources and programming plans, disaster relief and global counter-terrorism before diversifying into Head of the Defence Cyber Security Programme in 2011. Fronting the international operations since the sector's inception, Jonathan led a new era of defence, responsible predominantly for policy in Pakistan, India, The Levant, and Africa. Trusted and respected for his career longevity, Jonathan ran a £90 million cyber activity for three years, which further developed his strategic mindset, business acumen and insight into international relations.

After graduating from the University of Oxford, Jonathan was commissioned into the Parachute Regiment, where he served as the platoon commander in the Falklands War and evidenced exemplary team management strategy. Selected to study at Staff College for a year in 1989, he was later made Commander of the 12 (Mechanised) Brigade, followed by service in Kosovo in the Multi-National Brigade (Centre) and in Iraq. His dedicated army career saw Jonathan continue his studies completing his Higher Command and Staff course in 2000, which enabled him to gain staff appointments in the Military of Defence, a testament to his commitment and drive in the forces.

Spearheading the technological security for the Ministry of Defence has ensured Jonathan is a leading authority in the sector, able to fuse military-style leadership with geostrategic issues to consult and advise audiences on the approaches they can adapt for success. Awarded the Queen’s commendation for Valuable Service in 1996, Jonathan’s career commitment speaks for itself, and his ability to adapt throughout is what makes him a qualified speaker. Covering topics like geopolitics, security goals and strategic planning, Jonathan is guaranteed to instil implementable skills in audiences, both individually and company-wide.