The fight to protect our water: Cyber Security & Critical Infrastructure

How safe is the water you drink and what role does it play in the UK’s AI and tech future? Water systems aren’t just critical for daily life; they’re vital for powering AI centers and technological infrastructure. In this Cyber Leaders’ Summit Special Edition Episode, Matthew Greaves from Yorkshire Water shares how cyber security protects our most critical systems while supporting the UK’s position in the AI race. Water is essential, but it’s also a target. From cyber attacks to physical threats, the systems that deliver clean water are under constant pressure. Real resilience isn’t just about technology - it’s about skilled people, strong processes, and proactive leadership. We’re joined by Matthew Greaves, Head of Cyber & Protective Security at Yorkshire Water. Matthew leads efforts to safeguard the water supply from both cyber and physical threats, ensuring that when you turn on the tap, the water flows reliably and safely. His role spans Sec Ops, InfoSec, Cyber-Physical systems, people management, and electronic security. Matthew is passionate about nurturing grassroots cyber talent and serves as a Cyber Ambassador for NCSC’s CyberFirst program, as well as an advisor to Cyber Bradford. He brings practical insights on protecting critical infrastructure, developing the next generation of security professionals, and strengthening organisational resilience — all while ensuring the UK’s water systems can support AI centers and broader technological development. 🔥 What You’ll Discover: Why water systems are prime targets and the stakes behind cyber-physical security What protecting critical infrastructure looks like day-to-day How the threat landscape for utilities has evolved over the past five years Key differences between OT (Operational Technology) and IT security How to safeguard long-standing physical systems against modern digital threats The challenges of building cyber-physical talent pipelines Practical steps organisations and individuals can take to improve resilience Career advise and guidance Why water infrastructure is a foundational asset for AI centers and tech development Lessons from cross-industry leadership and collaboration at the Cyber Leadership Summit About Yorkshire Water: Yorkshire Water provides clean, safe, and reliable water across the region while maintaining resilience against cyber and physical threats. The organisation combines operational excellence with proactive security measures to protect one of the nation’s most critical infrastructures a foundation for supporting AI and technology initiatives. Learn more: https://www.yorkshirewater.com 📢ANNOUNCEMENTS📢 👋 Jay Adamson and Warren Atkinson thank you for joining us in the fight to make cyber security accessible to everyone. We encourage you to check out our Community and Growth Platform where you can access a wealth of Tools, Resource and Opportunity – It’s Free. ✅ Join Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdiJ3kC2UDadnnLfP91u2K18XEiwV9n7J-l_-Dt8icUzP00bA/viewform 📺 WATCH MORE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRzUBDsLBZcCYFEVZNwYSqg 🗓️ NEW EPISODES available every Sunday & Wednesday.