At ElysianIT, we often say that the best Managed Services and Security Operations Centre (SOC) teams are the ones nobody notices.
That might sound strange at first. After all, businesses invest in technology to improve productivity, enhance security and support growth. But when IT systems are working exactly as they should, users simply get on with their day. Emails arrive, Teams calls connect, files open, cyber threats are blocked and business continues uninterrupted. The effort behind making that happen is often invisible. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to celebrate our very own Desiree Westdorp, who has been shortlisted in the Unsung Hero category at the CRN Women & Diversity in Channel Awards 2026.
The award recognises those individuals whose contributions are essential to organisational success yet often take place behind the scenes. It’s a category that perfectly reflects the work carried out every day within a modern Security Operations Centre.
While most people are sleeping, attending meetings or focusing on their core responsibilities, SOC analysts are constantly monitoring for suspicious activity, investigating potential threats and responding to incidents before they can impact users. Their success is typically measured by the problems that never happen.
Recently, Desiree authored and led investigations into significant cybersecurity incidents, analysing attack activity, coordinating response actions and helping protect customers from increasingly sophisticated threats. Her work demonstrates the dedication, technical expertise and calm professionalism required to defend organisations in today’s constantly evolving threat landscape.
It’s a role that demands vigilance, attention to detail and a genuine passion for protecting others. Yet much of this work goes unnoticed because successful cybersecurity rarely creates headlines. When threats are detected early, incidents are contained quickly and businesses continue operating as normal, the achievement can often appear invisible from the outside.
The same principle applies across Managed Services. Clients rarely think about the countless updates, monitoring alerts, maintenance activities and proactive improvements taking place behind the scenes. They simply expect their technology to work. The true value of a Managed Service Provider lies in preventing disruption before it occurs, ensuring users remain productive and businesses remain secure.
This is why the concept of an “Unsung Hero” resonates so strongly within our industry. Technology professionals like Desiree work tirelessly behind the scenes, helping organisations navigate risks, embrace innovation and maintain resilience. Their contribution may not always be visible, but it is absolutely vital.
We’re delighted to see Desiree’s commitment recognised through her shortlist nomination and look forward to celebrating with the wider technology community at the CRN Women & Diversity in Channel Awards, taking place on 8 October 2026 at The Brewery in London.
Congratulations, Desiree.
Your work may often happen behind the scenes, but today we’re shining a spotlight on the difference you make every day.
