Spotlight on a Security Officer: Antonio Da Silva
In each issue of City Security magazine, we profile a security officer who is demonstrating exemplary commitment and customer service. This issue, we meet Antonio Da Silva and find out about his impressive career in security.
Can you describe your initial entry into the security profession ?
My early exposure to the industry was through my father and uncle, both of whom managed hotel chains in South America, which guided my decision to pursue a career in security. I began in 1997, preceding industry regulation in 2004, starting as a night porter at a five-star hotel in Mayfair, London. This experience provided essential skills in access management, patrolling, report writing, and customer interaction, which served as the foundation for my progression into security.
Within a year, I joined a major Greenwich retail store as a security officer and quickly advanced to corporate security officer and then supervisor. My progression continued at Walt Disney as Senior Supervisor and anti-piracy lead, before joining my current employer in 2014, where, after further promotions, I became Security Manager at a prestigious flagship building in Mayfair.
What are your responsibilities and what do you value most about your role?
Leading an amazing team of security officers and team leaders, providing exemplary customer service whilst maintaining discrete yet robust security protocols for tenants and visitors. The multi-tenanted building accommodates leading firms from financial, capital management, and property investment sectors, frequently hosting VIP guests, who include prime ministers and other notable figures.
The best thing about my role is the strength of the team and how we work together in keeping people and the building safe. We have had our challenges over the years with prolonged (circa five years) aggressive protesters where the team continually stepped up to ensure the safety of the tenants and building. We worked closely with the police and although it was a stressful time for all, I am immensely proud of the team in how we dealt with an extremely difficult and testing period.
What skills are important for a security professional?
Effective communication, a positive attitude, integrity, initiative, and continual professional development are essential. The security sector has evolved significantly; today, officers are well-trained professionals fulfilling a variety of roles: customer service ambassadors, first aiders, mental health first aiders, fire wardens, loss prevention specialists, local neighbourhood liaison, plus we are the eyes and ears for the police.
What training have you taken?
At Vigilant Security, annual ACT refresher training is mandatory, supplemented by a variety of ongoing training. Over my 28-year career, ongoing training has included ACT/SCAN, Management BTEC Level 3 – Distinction (Advanced Apprenticeship in Business Management), Fire Marshall, Mental Health Responder and First Aider, Major Incident & Catastrophic Bleed Training, with additional police-led sessions during protest periods.
In addition, having role models/mentors has played a significant role throughout my career, especially in my current position. The company’s quarterly ‘Bright Ideas’ initiative ensures all team members can contribute their thoughts and suggestions.
How does technology support the security role?
We have access control and CCTV and use body-worn CCTV externally/when relevant. It is important that all team members are at the same level of competency with regards to our security technology. As someone interested in IT, I am eager to explore how combining technology with our physical tasks can benefit both aspects of our work.
How has your role changed over time?
Massively since the days I started as a night porter in 1997, most notably legislation – “The Private Security Act 2001” and the establishment of the SIA – bringing accountability/uniformity in baseline training, putting order in the industry and the companies operating within (as have the NSI).
We are now professional security officers/team leaders and managers who provide a valuable service.
What has been the highlight of your security career?
My career progression to date, the success of my team and the recognition of being nominated and a finalist for Manager of the Year at the 2024 Security & Fire Excellence Awards where I achieved third place.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into security?
Security can be more than “just a job; it can be a career if you so choose!
From my own experience, if you are committed, take every opportunity of training offered, learn from others and work hard – plus you need to want to succeed.
How would you like to progress in your role?
First place at the Security & Fire Excellence Awards!
What does his manager say about him?
Martin Arscott- Senior Contract Manager says: “Antonio is professional, diligent and is exactly what a good manager should be. He empowers and motivates employees, offers advice when needed and supports the wider team.”
Graham Bassett
Editorial Team
