Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Becker, how has your career path developed, and how did you come to found save IT first GmbH?

Marco Becker: My path was not exactly straight. I did not originally complete a degree in IT, but entered the field as a career changer. During my studies, I had already worked part-time in the field of physical security. When I started in sales at a small IT systems house, I quickly specialized in IT security. Initially, my focus was on firewalls and security solutions. After three years, the opportunity arose to start my own company with a colleague – thus at the beginning of 2011 save IT first GmbH was founded. From the start, our focus has been on IT security. In December 2022, we moved into our own building in the science park in Trier – a strategically good location, also with a view to recruiting skilled workers and developing our Security Academy.

Wirtschaftsforum: What distinguishes your work today?

Marco Becker: Our main goal is to offer our clients comprehensive IT security solutions and elevate them to the next level of security. We provide not only technical solutions but also accompany our clients from the initial consultation through implementation to support. We rely on a well-coordinated portfolio that both our technicians and salespeople deeply understand. This philosophy makes us a Single Point of Contact for our clients.
 

Wirtschaftsforum: What solutions does save IT first GmbH offer specifically in this context?

Marco Becker: We have two IT Security Officers who help customers analyze and systematically improve their security standards. Our services include consulting, endpoint security, firewall solutions, network security concepts, and more. A particular highlight is our approach to fully take over the theoretical part of security concepts such as ISMS (Information Security Management Systems). This allows our customers to focus on their core business while we create the groundwork for targeted measures. Additionally, we are strong in the Managed Services area, which is especially important for companies that want to outsource certain IT tasks. This also includes operating a Managed Security Operations Center (SOC) that ensures proactive monitoring and response to security incidents.

Wirtschaftsforum: How important is personal contact with your customers?

Marco Becker: Very important! We maintain intensive communication that goes beyond mere contractual relationships. Our customers know they can contact us at any time – not only when a license needs to be renewed. This close customer relationship and our commitment to providing high-quality, practical solutions are crucial factors of our success. We place great importance on building long-term relationships and establishing ourselves as a trustworthy partner.
 

Wirtschaftsforum: What role does innovation play in your company?

Marco Becker: Innovation is a central part of our work. This is evident, for example, in our Security Academy, which aims to raise awareness of IT security. We offer training, seminars, and workshops, both in our new building and directly at our clients' locations. Our services are not only aimed at IT professionals but also at decision-makers, to create a comprehensive understanding of IT security strategies. Additionally, we host our Cybersecurity Day once a year, where current topics are presented in a practical manner. Here, we bring experts, manufacturers, and customers together to discuss the latest developments in IT security. A particular highlight was our Cyber-Security Escape Room, which playfully raises awareness of the risks.

Wirtschaftsforum: What are your goals for the future?

Marco Becker: Our focus remains on IT security and Managed Services. In the medium term, we also want to expand into areas like penetration testing to assist companies more specifically in identifying vulnerabilities. Additionally, we see great potential in automating security processes through AI. Initial projects for optimizing internal workflows are already underway. Another important aspect is our geographic orientation: In addition to the DACH market, we also serve customers in Luxembourg—a dynamic, but challenging market. Here, we bring our expertise specifically to the financial services sector.

Wirtschaftsforum: Finally: What would you advise other companies regarding IT security?

Marco Becker: I would recommend not considering IT security as a one-time effort. It is a continuous process that requires both technical and organizational measures. It is especially important to adapt the IT security strategy to the specific needs and risks of one's own company. And of course, it is essential to collaborate with partners who not only understand technology but also the challenges of the specific industry. With this approach, companies can not only improve their security but also remain competitive in the long term.