In today’s digital landscape, IT and data security are no longer just a technical concern—they’re a fundamental pillar of business stability and growth. For accounting firms and financial service providers, safeguarding sensitive client information is non-negotiable. A single breach can lead to severe financial losses, regulatory penalties, and reputational damage.
As cyber threats become more advanced and compliance regulations more stringent, firms must proactively implement managed IT services for cybersecurity compliance. Encryption, multi-factor authentication, and continuous security monitoring are no longer optional; they’re essential components of a secure, scalable IT infrastructure.
But here’s the challenge—most firm leaders didn’t start out as IT experts. They’re financial professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners who suddenly find themselves responsible for protecting client data across multiple teams and locations. The good news? You don’t need to be a cybersecurity specialist to build a strong IT foundation. The key is to start small, focus on the highest-impact risks, and empower the right people on your team to take ownership.
Start Small: Focus on High-Impact IT Priorities
At Nimbl, we didn’t have a dedicated IT team when we first expanded our remote workforce. Our employees managed their own devices, and security wasn’t always top of mind. As we grew, we recognized the need for a structured IT security strategy—but like many firms, we weren’t sure where to start.
The turning point? We focused on one risk at a time.
Device security was a major priority. With team members across the U.S., Canada, and the Philippines, we needed a secure, scalable solution to manage company devices, monitor access, and remotely lock or wipe data when necessary. By implementing device management software, we gained control over how our systems were protected—regardless of employee location.
The lesson? You don’t have to be an IT expert to improve security—you just need to take the first step. Identify the most pressing vulnerabilities, address them systematically, and build from there.
The Power of an IT Champion
When we first recognized our IT gaps, our leadership team needed someone to take charge of security. Our founder, Dave Olsen, asked Christian Tebbs, CMA, MAcc, to lead the IT function—not because he was an expert, but because he had the ability to research, learn, and implement solutions.
Under Christian’s leadership, we developed a structured IT framework. He mentored a young intern (now a key member of our IT team) and helped transform our internal IT strategy from reactive to proactive.
What we learned: Having an IT champion—someone dedicated to security and risk management—makes all the difference. This person doesn’t need to be a specialist from day one. They simply need the drive to ask the right questions, seek external support when needed, and ensure the firm’s IT security evolves alongside its growth.
Steps to Strengthen IT and Data Security
If you’re not an IT professional, you might be wondering where to start. Here’s a roadmap to begin securing your firm today:
✔ Assign an IT Lead: Designate a team member to oversee IT security and work with external specialists when necessary.
✔ Implement Device Management: Secure all company devices with remote monitoring and access controls to prevent unauthorized data exposure.
✔ Train for Phishing Awareness: Since phishing is one of the leading causes of security breaches, invest in ongoing phishing simulations and employee training to strengthen your firm’s defenses.
✔ Develop a Security Roadmap: Identify your firm’s biggest vulnerabilities (e.g., weak passwords, outdated software) and create a plan for gradual, structured improvements.
✔ Leverage External IT Expertise: Consider outsourcing managed IT services to enhance security while maintaining operational efficiency. A fractional IT team can provide advanced cybersecurity solutions without the cost of hiring full-time staff.
From Small Steps to Big Wins
IT security isn’t just about preventing cyber threats—it’s about enabling sustainable growth. A well-structured IT framework ensures operational continuity, builds client trust, and strengthens compliance, all while reducing risk.
At Nimbl, we’ve been through this journey. The steps we took—starting small, designating a security lead, and focusing on high-impact risks—have allowed us to scale with confidence while maintaining top-tier security standards.
If you’re looking for a strategic approach to IT security, Nimbl Tech offers customized IT security consulting for data protection and compliance. Our fractional IT services help firms like yours secure sensitive data, meet regulatory requirements, and create a future-proof IT infrastructure.
Ready to build a secure, scalable IT foundation? Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of IT and data security, ensuring your firm is protected today and prepared for tomorrow.
