I recently met with Rob Farmer of Smartsec Solution who is the site security manager at a corporate building overlooking Trafalgar Square. I asked Rob about his role and he told me that no day is the same and every day can test your skills and knowledge, which is the attraction of going in each day! In his view, the most important skills needed are customer service, the ability to manage people’s expectations and being able to work under pressure.
Rob added that he is very much a “people person, friendly, attentive and works well under pressure”. When asked what advice he would give someone contemplating joining the security sector, he said,“I believe you need to be strong, level-headed and have a passion to succeed and work well as a team – and do the Project Griffin course.”
Rob explained that his role has changed a lot since joining as a security officer a few years ago, with various promotions seeing him progress to his current position. His responsibility has also incrementally increased, working more closely with his client and client’s tenants. We discussed technology and whether it helps. “Technology plays a significant role, with CCTV, access control, radios and mobile phones all significant factors in securing the building, people and assets – as well as keeping the security officer safe in his/her workplace.”
The future, career wise? “I would eventually like to progress to an Account Manager or Operations Manager looking after a portfolio of clients.”
I also spoke with Theo Nicolaou, Rob’s MD, who said, “Rob Farmer is everything you want to see in a security professional. He is hard-working, reliable, willing to take ownership and displays a calm manner in his day-to-day running of the building. He displays exemplary customers services skills, which are critical in today’s demanding corporate environment. Rob is highly praised by our customer and amongst all of his colleagues and peers within SmartSec Solutions – a true asset to our organisation.”
