Decision details

The Cabinet considered a confidential report of the Director of Digital seeking permission to enter into a new contract for a Security Operations Centre (SOC) service under a procurement compliant framework agreement in accordance with Contract Procedure Rules. The new advanced product from the existing provider has been selected for compatibility with ZTNA and Microsoft 365 E5 (contingent on their sign-off) and would enable features like ‘24/7’ monitoring, threat hunting, and integration with approved ZTNA and E5 tools, aligning with NCSC cyber security best practices.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet agrees:

1.    To authorise the approval of a three year contract with Sophos Taegis for £662,778 with the new advanced product from the existing Sophos provider selected for compatibility with ZTNA and Microsoft 365 E5 (contingent on their sign-off) and which will enable features like 24/7 monitoring, threat hunting, and integration with approved ZTNA and E5 tools, while conducting a phased rollout to minimise disruption and align with NCSC cyber security best practices.

2.    To authorise the approval of the additional revenue increase of £41K pa by moving from the existing Sophos system to Sophos Taegis.

3.    To authorise £240,926 IT Capital in Year 1 for the replacement and improvement of Oldham Council's current Sophos SOC service and internal resources to support the implementation in Year 1.

4.    To note that over three years the total cost will be £683K.

5.    To note that the Commercial Procurement Unit will ensure compliance with Council Contract Procedure Rules.