Independent information security firm CQR Consulting has continued its national expansion by appointing business assurance specialist Mark Jones to open its Melbourne office.

From a financial services background, Mark will work primarily with CQR’s national Business Assurance team. With five years experience working in information security, he possesses a strong ability to articulate information security risk at both the business and technical levels.

Mark previously worked for GE Money and Wizard. His security certifications and business qualifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Microsoft Certified Professional, Six Sigma (Green Belt) business process improvement and a Diploma of Information Technology.

Mark said he was attracted to CQR Consulting because it did not sell hardware or software. “I was drawn to an information security business, but because my background is working in business services, I definitely wasn't interested in selling products,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to working in Melbourne because it’s a largely untapped market for CQR. We already have some major accounts and we only just have our foot in the door. Having an information security specialist with a financial industry background based in Melbourne will give CQR Consulting even more momentum.”

CQR Consulting delivers independent Information Security Specialist services throughout Australia, Asia, Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States, without the need to sell computer hardware, software or technology services. The Australian-owned company acts as an “honest broker” for organisations often caught between competing claims of incumbent vendors.

The March opening of the Melbourne office follows an eventful year for CQR Consulting. In 2006, the company continued its national and international expansion, grew its staff to 20 and was a national finalist in the Telstra Business of the Year Awards. Business Review Weekly magazine also acknowledged CQR Consulting as one of Australia’s fastest growing start-up companies.

CQR Consulting managing director David Simpson said Mark Jones would add valuable local knowledge to the company’s Melbourne operation. “We expect to continue strong growth this year with nine available positions as we seek skilled people to bring on board in 2007,” he said.