Professional Role and Company Overview
Rick McElroy is the Founder and CEO of UN Cloud IT, a company specializing in hosted business applications through the Zoho platform, including Zoho CRM and Zoho One’s suite of 40 integrated business applications covering functions such as CRM, accounting, and project management. UN Cloud IT operates primarily in the cloud-based software and business operations space, targeting organizations seeking to streamline and automate their workflows through Zoho's products.
Career Background and Expertise
Rick McElroy brings over 35 years of combined experience spanning military service, government, healthcare, business, technology, and cybersecurity disciplines. He is a U.S. Air Force veteran (1985–1992) with specialized training as an Electronic Intelligence Specialist and additional military education credentials including NCO Prep School with distinction.
Before founding UN Cloud IT, Rick’s career involved extensive work in the ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) domain since 1997, with early involvement in Lawson Software, indicating deep domain expertise in enterprise software solutions. This extensive ERP background directly informs his leadership and service offerings at UN Cloud IT, focusing on integrated business solutions that drive revenue growth.
Technical and Security Credentials
Although specific certifications under UN Cloud IT were not explicitly detailed, Rick McElroy has a recognized background in cybersecurity, holding industry-standard certifications including:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
- Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) [inferred from known certifications]
Rick has served as a Principal Cyber Security Strategist at VMware Carbon Black, leveraging over 20 years of cybersecurity leadership experience. His cybersecurity insights encompass practical, cost-effective protective measures emphasizing the importance of integrating security into business operations, rather than treating it as a standalone function. He is frequently cited in security media and has contributed as a speaker and participant in industry panels on evolving cybersecurity threats and cloud security.
Professional Highlights and Contributions
- Founded UN Cloud IT, focusing on Zoho business applications and cloud-hosted business management solutions.
- Veteran with specialized military intelligence training and leadership experience.
- Over two decades of cybersecurity strategy and consulting at high-profile firms including VMware Carbon Black.
- Published thought leader and contributor to media outlets and professional security forums.
- Led initiatives partnering with academic institutions, such as a collaborative project with Yale University.
- Notable for his integrated approach combining ERP experience with cybersecurity expertise, positioning UN Cloud IT uniquely in the market.
Education and Training
Rick McElroy’s formal education includes affiliation with the New York Institute of Technology, details on specific degrees were not provided. His professional development includes substantial military technical schooling and advanced certifications in cybersecurity disciplines.
Network and Industry Presence
- Maintains an active LinkedIn profile with over 500 connections, predominantly in the Greater Wilmington area.
- Visible as a trusted security expert with media citations in Security Magazine and participation in industry webinars and security expos.
- His company, UN Cloud IT, is visible in social media networks emphasizing community engagement, including veteran-owned business support initiatives.
This integrated profile presents Rick McElroy as a senior executive and expert at the nexus of cloud-based business systems and cybersecurity, supported by extensive military and technology experience. His leadership at UN Cloud IT underscores a commitment to leveraging comprehensive Zoho application deployment combined with strong cybersecurity strategies, suggesting a dual focus on operational efficiency and secure digital transformation for clients.
