In this episode, we unpack the latest developments in UK security legislation and what they mean for consultants, practitioners and end users across the sector. Explore how new legal frameworks are reshaping risk management, compliance, and professional accountability.

Speakers:

• Lee Doddridge, Director ASC / Owner of Covenant - Association of Security Consultants (ASC) / Covenant
• Dennis Roe, Partner - Association of Security Consultants (ASC)
• Simon Crane, Director of Consulting/ Director - AHNA Group/ ASC
• Rick Mounfield, Director - Optimal Risk Group

In this session, we explored the critical importance of effective event security, emphasizing that security is not just about showing presence or fulfilling minimum requirements. True protection goes far beyond token gestures and requires a deep commitment to thorough planning, vigilance, and professionalism.  

Key discussion points included: 

Understanding the Threat Landscape: Security isn't one-size-fits-all. It requires careful assessment of potential risks specific to each event and environment.  

Comprehensive Planning: Effective security starts well before the event begins, with detailed risk analysis, strategic placement of personnel, and emergency response plans.  Proactive vs. Reactive Measures: The focus should be on preventing incidents rather than merely reacting to them. This means staying ahead of potential threats through constant surveillance and real-time decision-making.  

Training and Professionalism: Staff must be highly trained not just in traditional security methods, but also in crowd management, de-escalation techniques, and the latest security technology.  

Dynamic Adaptability: Each event is different, and the security strategy must be flexible enough to adjust to unforeseen circumstances while maintaining control and safety.

Speaker:

• Marcel Cullers, Owner of Security Nation and the Nation Group - Security Nation

Women in the private security sector face unique challenges, yet their contributions are vital to the industry’s success. This panel will focus on strategies for retaining women in the sector, exploring how organisations can support, empower, and advance female talent in frontline and leadership roles. 

Through insightful discussions, we will uncover the barriers women face, the value they bring, and how the industry can create a culture of inclusion that ensures long-term retention and growth.

Speakers:

• Satia Rai, CEO - International Professional Security Association (IPSA)
• Lyndsey Higgins, Director of Front-Line Forum - International Professional Security Association (IPSA)
• Hayfa Ali, Advanced Detection Team Coordinator - Wilson James
• Charlotte Wigg, Head of Crowd Safety and Events - SGC Security Services

Drawing from extensive global research and observations, this discussion explores the transformative forces reshaping today's security landscape. As the traditional $10B high-security sector faces unprecedented change, a new $100B mainstream security market is emerging - one that builds upon historical foundations while breaking free from conventional constraints. 

Through insights gathered worldwide by Lee Odess, CEO of The Access Control Collective, we'll examine the critical shifts driving this evolution, their timing, and their implications for all stakeholders. The presentation reveals both challenges and opportunities facing industry players, mapping out how organizations can navigate this transformation successfully. 

By understanding these changes and their cascading effects, security leaders can better position themselves in an industry that's rapidly redefining its boundaries, capabilities, and future direction.​​

Speaker:

- Lee Odess, CEO - Access Control Executive Brief

• Recognise the six stages of delivering effective security
• Considerations when selecting appropriate security performance standards
• The ingredients of an effective specification
• The hierarchy of evidence available to support the selection of  effective solutions

Speaker:

- Richard Flint, Technical and Commercial Lead for Physical Security - BRE Global

This episode explores how the security industry can close the gender gap, spotlighting initiatives, leaders, and strategies driving meaningful change. 

Speakers:

- Sarah Cork, Chief Growth Officer - City Group Security
- Sarah Hayes, HR Director - Securitas Security Services (UK) Ltd
- Louise Walker, Director - Tiger Events
- Mo Fatah, Youth Development Lead - The Kings Trust
- Liz Lloyd, Head of Marketing and Communications - BSIA
- Andy Keast, CEO - London Irish Foundation

Physical security is more crucial than ever, as risks escalate due to skilled labour shortages, operational costs rise and businesses face threats from all directions. Modern organisations must embrace innovative and efficient technologies to not only safeguard their people and properties but also transform their business. In this session, Verkada will explore a live customer story with Grainger PLC discussing the benefits of a cloud software approach to physical security. Discover how Grainger plc has implemented a cutting-edge system to future-proof their business.

Speakers:

- Stuart Miller, Head of Technology & Innovation - Grainger Plc
- James Drury, Account Executive - Verkada

Violence and Intimidation against women and girls is a societal problem that needs a whole society response. It is everyone’s business to want to see and drive the changes needed to promote safer communities that will allow them to prosper and flourish. We need to see a collective and cohesive response beyond law enforcement, driven by society, businesses and organisations across all sectors.   

This informative session will showcase how collaboration across the industry, working with the Police, and third-party organisations, can enable safer communities.

Speakers:

• Paul Furnell, Director - Safeguarding & Safer Communities Intelligence Services - Mitie
• Michael Neligan, CEO - Walk Safe

The Security Briefing is the official podcast from the organisers of The Security Event. Each episode brings together industry leaders, innovators, and frontline professionals to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and challenges shaping the future of security. From cyber to physical, strategy to innovation, this is your inside track on the issues that matter most to security professionals today.