Rougemont Security, a specialist cybersecurity advisory firm based in Basingstoke, is making waves in the small and medium-sized business (SMB) sector thanks in part to targeted support from the Hampshire Growth Hub.
Founded by Chris Cooper in July 2023, Rougemont Security offers fractional Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) services – a flexible, cost-effective solution for businesses that need expert cybersecurity leadership without the overhead of a full-time executive. These services typically include strategic risk management, compliance oversight, incident response planning and staff training, tailored to the needs of growing organisations.
With over 25 years of experience across industries including finance, manufacturing, retail, aviation and government, Chris brings deep expertise to the company’s mission of helping clients build resilience in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Recognising the need for structured support during a pivotal stage in the company’s growth, Chris turned to the Hampshire Growth Hub to sharpen the company’s strategic direction.
“I approached the Hampshire Growth Hub seeking structured guidance during a critical development phase for Rougemont Security,” said Chris. “Their systematic approach to business analysis and reputation for connecting companies with the right resources made them the logical choice for professional support.”
Senior Growth Champion Andy Swift worked closely with Chris, using tools like GROWTHmapper to assess the company’s strengths and challenges. The process helped clarify priorities and revealed new opportunities for sustainable growth.
“Andy Swift's support has been instrumental in clarifying our strategic direction,” Chris explained. “The GROWTHmapper exercise helped us identify key business issues while highlighting our core strengths and development priorities. The sustainability assessment opened our eyes to opportunities we hadn't previously considered.”
One standout initiative was Chris’s participation in a Digital Marketing Skills Bootcamp, arranged by Andy, which significantly boosted Rougemont Security’s online visibility.
Delivered by Fareport Training as part of Hampshire County Council’s Skills Bootcamps programme, the course is designed to help sole traders and small business owners enhance their digital marketing capabilities. The 10-week programme covers branding, Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), Pay Per Click (PPC), social media, and email marketing and includes live group sessions, and one-to-one coaching.
“Perhaps most valuably, Andy continues to connect us with relevant people and organisations that directly support our business objectives,” Chris added. “His ongoing network and guidance have proved genuinely beneficial to our growth trajectory.”
With the backing of the Hampshire Growth Hub, Rougemont Security is now better equipped to support its clients and expand its impact in the cybersecurity space.
Strategic Growth Manager Chris Burchell, who leads the Hampshire Growth Hub, said: “Rougemont Security is a great example of how our targeted support can help ambitious businesses sharpen their strategy and unlock new opportunities.
Chris Cooper’s proactive approach and willingness to engage with our programme – and with Andy Swift – made it a pleasure to support his journey. We’re delighted to play a part in helping local firms like Rougemont grow and thrive in such a vital sector.”