Expert panel advises on how to choose a role in the changing world of security
Developing a career in security can be challenging. We asked our panel of security experts for their views on how the security sector is changing, the diversity of roles it offers and their recommendations for keeping one step ahead in your career.
Meet our experts
Angela Vernon-Lawson recently launched Project55 (UK), a not-for-profit Community Interest Company. She uses her specialisms and lived experience to provide a more holistic approach to security, risk resilience, and sustainability. Her work inspires others to contribute positively to a safer society by making better choices at home, work, and socially.
Ray Marskell is a Board Member and the Director of Risk and Intelligence at CIS Security Ltd. He had a successful 30-year career in the police service. Ray is a committee member at the City of London Crime Prevention Association, sits on the advisory board for Crimestoppers, and supports the College of Policing.
Scott Gough is Managing Director of UniTrust Protection Services. He has 25 years’ experience in the security sector. Scott sits on various security industry boards, including the City Security Council and the City of London Crime Prevention Association.
Greg Meek is a security professional of 30 years, with a Master’s degree in Security and Risk Management, and a NEBOSH NGC3. He is a member of the Security Institute. Starting at 17, he has worked in many roles. He now runs a business with three security-related services: security team deployment and management, training and consulting.
Sarah Austerberry, Director and Founder of Au Security Consulting, and Vice Chair of the Security Institute, Sarah has over 25 years’ experience in the public and private sector, specialising in Insider Risk.
Chris Stevens is a Chartered Security Professional (CSyP), an experienced security advisor specialising in transportation. A specialist in ‘Security in Design’ against terrorism threats and all other aspects of crime, with a unique knowledge of the rail industry and extensive delivery of Hostile Vehicle Mitigation schemes.
Karol Docherty is BID Security Manager for the Business District of Waterloo, providing security risk management, resilience, and crisis management advice to over 450 businesses. He has over 21 years of experience in the security industry and has several security-related diplomas, including terrorism risk management and retail security management.
We firstly discuss how the security sector is going through a period of rapid change and the impact this is having on jobs. Then, explore the range of roles that the sector offers:
Security – a changing sector
Security risks and threats are becoming more complex and in response the security sector is advancing at pace, has a broader reach, with a wide variety of roles and responsibilities. The links between the private and public sector are continuously evolving. Although building a career in the sector is becoming more achievable, there is more work to be done on developing clear career paths and qualification requirements.
Expert opinion:
Angela Lawson: Undoubtedly, the security sector has changed dramatically in the last two decades to become a profession of choice. Previously, most individuals entering the sector went straight to the frontline, in uniform, as more of an insurance requirement than a protector of people and assets. Today, there are multiple employment opportunities in the security sector, whether it is a role in cyber, physical security or risk management.
Ray Marskell: As a former police officer, I would say that police forces have started to recognise the benefits of collaborating with the private security sector. Policing and security exist for the same reason: the safety of people, places and infrastructure. As demands on policing increase, there is a real opportunity to utilise the capabilities that the security industry has to offer.
Scott Gough: During my career journey from security control room to the boardroom, I’ve seen the sector transformed; the professionalism and diverse career opportunities now available have really made us a career of choice for some, but there is still work to be done in this space.
Chris Stevens: Many capable graduates complete security-related courses annually; the security industry must offer them a clear career path with progression opportunities identified. These individuals are the future of the industry and they should be supported and mentored. The fact that an individual can set themselves up as a security consultant or employee within a company with no agreed qualifications or plan for these to be achieved cannot be right for the industry or the individuals involved. It is imperative for the industry to respond at speed to provide career paths to both professionalise the industry and afford real opportunities across the breadth of what is such an important sector.
The diversity of roles in security
There is a diverse range of roles and employers within the security sector. When reviewing how to achieve your career objectives, it can help to refresh your understanding of the types of security employers there are and the kinds of roles they offer. Perhaps your next step is to a different kind of employer or a new role?
Types of employers and roles
Terminology varies, but here’s a selection of possible employers and job titles:
In-house security (sometimes called End User): This is the internal team within an organisation responsible for managing and implementing security measures. They protect the organisation’s personnel and assets. An in-house or corporate role can provide stability and career opportunities.
Security solutions provider: Companies that offer a range of security services and products. These solutions can include security systems, software, consulting, and managed security services, including guarding services. Working with a provider can give you experience of working with different clients.
Distributor: Businesses that distribute security products and equipment such as surveillance cameras and alarm systems. They operate between manufacturers and retailers or end-users. Suits those with a keen interest in technology and good people skills. Some example roles are: product specialist, operations manager, sales consultant.
Manufacturer: Companies that design and produce hardware and software solutions used in security systems, such as cameras, alarms, and access control systems. For those who enjoy being part of innovation and technology. Here are some typical roles: security systems engineer, product manager, sales consultant, technical support specialist.
Integrator: Professionals who assist organisations to develop, implement, and maintain integrated security solutions. They install and calibrate both hardware and software systems to maximise efficiency and ensure that components communicate effectively as part of an integrated network. Those with a strong interest in technology and project management can flourish in these companies. Example roles are project manager, security designer, security system installer.
Installer: Professionals who focus on the physical installation of security systems. They set up hardware such as cameras, alarms, and access control systems at client sites. Good for people who enjoy a hand-ons role and working with technology. Job titles include: alarm installer, alarm technician, security systems engineer, security systems installer, security systems technician.
Cyber security provider: Companies or individuals that specialise in protecting computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. They offer services such as threat assessment, incident response, and security consulting to safeguard digital assets. Typical role titles are: penetration tester, information security analyst, chief information security officer (CISO), network security engineer.
Expert Advice
Angela Lawson: When contemplating your career in the security sector, it’s vital to consider your personal preferences and past experiences. Are you more drawn to a physical, cyber, or asset security role? Do you aim to leverage your previous experience in your new role?
To help explore the diverse opportunities in the security sector, try completing a personal SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis. This powerful tool is your compass, enabling you to make informed career decisions. By comparing your current skills, knowledge, and understanding with the requirements of a specific role, you can confidently navigate the myriad of opportunities available in the security sector, feeling equipped with a powerful tool for your career journey.
Ray Marskell: When considering the size and type of company to join, you need to align your own personality, values, and principles. Being part of something new and exciting in, say, a small start-up is great as you can hopefully help shape a new beginning. But being part of an established and long-standing business gives you an equal opportunity to come in, put your stamp on things and hopefully leave a legacy. It’s about aligning your ambitions, plans, and, most importantly, personal values that should guide you to the right place at the right time.
Greg Meek: There is always potential in small organisations. Great things can happen if the team you work with have got the key markers: drive, enthusiasm, and being prepared to put the hours in, and, most important on the list, integrity. Early mistakes can hang around your name, and for me, my reputation is my most important commodity. Certain stigmas exist around some of the larger organisations, but I say you can’t judge a company on an individual or a single department. They carry the benefits of transferring between roles, investment in you, contributary pension, financial security, and building a network.
Sarah Austerberry: One possible career path is starting your own business / consultancy. It is daunting setting up a business on your own – no matter how much preparation you put in; it is like stepping off the top of a cliff. But it can be worth it – not simply in financial terms but in personal development – resilience, multi-tasking, decision-making, building friendships and networks and honing expertise in your chosen field.
