Focus on a Security Officer Jo Burns
In each edition, we profile an individual security officer, highlighting their commitment and professional approach, and overview their career journey and role. We met Jo Burns at Westfield E20, before she was heading off to her client’s site (a well-known Holborn five-star hotel), where she works on behalf of Trojan Security.
Q How did you get into security?
A: After obtaining my CCTV, Close Protection and Door Supervisor licences, I secured a position at Lafayette night club in north London in an internal client-facing role. The club hosted many well-known celebrity DJs and performers and would often hold private parties with exclusive hire with high profile individuals in attendance. I then joined Trojan Security working at the Troxy – a well-known and iconic Art Deco music venue in East London – before moving to the Rosewood London, where I have been since 2023.
Q What does your job entail and what skills are needed?
A: My role is internal and client-facing. The hotel holds private events that are often attended by well-known celebrities and individuals. I ensure that all who visit the hotel for events and functions are safe and that all aspects of security run smoothly.
Working with such a varied and eclectic mix of people requires good communication skills. Confidentiality and discretion are a prerequisite, plus common sense and the ability to assess situations.
Q What has been the highlight of your security career?
A: I have worked with some amazing teams and have met some amazing people, be they a guest, performer or high- net-worth individual – including international A-listers in music and film, high profile footballers, and a variety of high-net-worth business people. I get to meet a variety of interesting people from the world of music/film, fashion and more.
Q What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into security?
A: Have a passion to learn and develop your skills, learn from the people you are working with and take on board their advice and experience.
Q How would you like to progress in your role?
A: At some point in the future, I would like to start my own all-female-focused security company; we need to attract more women into the industry.
Testimonials
Ivan Mariacher, Director, Trojan Security:
“Jo Burns has been a committed and highly professional security operative since joining the workforce in May 2023. Her versatility is evident in her ability to excel across diverse environments, from prestigious hospitality venues to large-scale festival sites. She is proactive in developing her skills, actively engaging with training and professional development to enhance her expertise, which she applies effectively across all deployments.”
Hamdi Bouraoui, Safety & Security Supervisor, Rosewood London:
“Jo is a pleasure to work with and is one of strongest and most capable we have worked with. Jo is well skilled in conflict resolution and will resolve a situation before it happens. Her personality and way of working makes her unique and great to be around.”
Jo is a great ambassador for her company and security as a whole, a professional, determined and likeable individual who will no doubt go far – underpinned by the two testimonials above.
Graham Bassett Editorial team
