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Meet the Team

Steve

Stephen Leach

Director

Steve has over 30 years policing experience, the majority spent within CID, both at a Force and Regional level. Steve has always had an interest in the digital and cyber world. Within the police he has worked in the Economic Crime Unit and Digital investigations. He was part of the team that was responsible for creating the force-wide Cyber Crime Unit. He has been with the NEBRC from inception and is proud to be celebrating 7 years and counting, helping businesses within the region stay safe from online threats. 

Martin

Martin Wilson

Deputy Director

Detective Inspector Martin Wilson of Durham Constabulary has 21 years policing experience across various policing roles. Prior to joining the NEBRC, Martin was part of the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) where he specialised in Cyber Protect, Prevent and Prepare work streams, leading on new and innovative work, helping businesses understand and prepare for cyber-attack. Martin holds an MSc in Cyber Security (with distinction) and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Abertay University, focusing on cybersecurity for small businesses. His research explores how UX-based methodologies can help convey essential cybersecurity insights to providers serving SMEs. Based in the North East, Martin enjoys spending time in the countryside and staying active in his spare time.

Lizzie

Lizzie Young

Operations and Relationships Manager
As Operations and Relationships Manager for the NEBRC, Lizzie is part of the leadership team for the organisation and is responsible for designing and controlling the businesses operations to ensure streamlined production of membership and services. Lizzie also builds and manages relationships with key stakeholders and clients engaging with the Centre. She also works closely with Cyber PATH on our service offerings and continues to support the student community. 
 
2026 marks Lizzie’s seventh year with the Centre. She was initially seconded from South Yorkshire Police as part of the project team to coordinate and support the implementation of the network of Centre’s. Prior to her current role, Lizzie performed roles in business support and client relations.
 
Lizzie holds a BA degree in Criminology and an MSc degree in International Security. She has also completed various courses relating to Cyber Security including the NPCC Computing and Networking and NPCC Cybercrime Protect and Prepare. In addition to this, she has completed the IASME Cyber Essentials Implementation Course to help support SMEs in navigating the journey to achieving CE. Lizzie also completed Prince2 and has completed a L5 CMI Leadership and Management Qualification, achieving a Distinction.
Chantelle

Chantelle Whitham

Marketing and Communications Manager

 Chantelle is responsible for a Marketing and Communications Manager role, overseeing the marketing function and promoting our memberships and services. Chantelle also organises and attends any affiliated events, works closely with our partners to ensure our members receive engaging and educational content to help protect them from online crime and fraud.

Chantelle has experience across a number of sectors including retail, beauty, spa and wellness. She has achieved a first class Bachelor’s degree in International Spa Management and a first class Master’s degree in Marketing Management from the University of Derby. These degrees contributed to her becoming a successful, self-employed beauty therapist.

Chantelle is a Certified in Cyber Security member of the (ISC)2 organisation and has completed her Ethical Hacking, Network Defense and Digital Forensics Essentials courses certified by EC Council, to build on her knowledge of cyber security to help businesses understand the importance of staying safe. She is also recognised as a Chartered Manager, after achieving a Distinction in her L5 CMI Leadership and Management Apprenticeship.

Living just outside Sheffield, Chantelle enjoys socialising with her friends and partner, watching Formula 1 and keeping fit in the gym.

Lydia

Lydia Stone

Business Assistant
Lydia is the Business Assistant at NEBRC, providing essential support to the core management team across diaries, events, and project programmes. Her role involves communicating with key stakeholders, preparing minutes, supporting at events, and engaging with businesses. Lydia first joined NEBRC as a part-time team member and has since become a full-time, integral part of the organisation. 
 
With a strong academic background, a Master’s in International Business and Marketing and a Bachelor’s in Criminology, Lydia brings a unique perspective to the cybersecurity sector. Her combination of analytical skills, business insight, and people-focused approach allows her to contribute meaningfully to projects that protect and support organisations.
 
Lydia is passionate about championing diverse pathways into cybersecurity and is proud to be part of an industry that benefits from a wide range of skills and perspectives. In the future, she hopes to continue learning through further education and specialised courses. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and exploring nature on long walks.