Why we love working in security – supporting the frontline
We asked a selection of security professionals from the across the sector to explain their role, why they love working in security and to share a short insightful or funny anecdote. The results are inspiring!
Sylwia Dudley Stuck – Security Operations Centre (SOC) Operator
As a SOC Operator, I am responsible for monitoring security tools and systems to quickly identify unusual activity, taking safe and measured first responses such as logging alerts, carrying out initial investigations, and escalating issues when required. Clear and accurate communication with senior staff and other teams is essential, ensuring incidents are managed without unnecessary stress or panic.
What I value most about working as a SOC Operator is the balance between teamwork and personal responsibility. You’re part of a close-knit group where everyone looks out for each other, yet you also get the satisfaction of knowing your vigilance directly protects people as well as the organisation. The sense of purpose, structure, and support keeps the role meaningful, rewarding, and never overwhelming.
Back in March 2025, I received an alert that an officer had missed their hourly check-in. Following procedure, I tried to contact them to make sure they were safe, but when I couldn’t reach them, I chose to calmly escalate the situation and requested CCTV for their site to be reviewed. The footage revealed the officer was in distress and required urgent medical attention. By staying calm and thinking clearly under pressure, I was able to get the right help to them quickly — ultimately saving their life. This incident will stay with me forever, as it showed me the real purpose and importance of my role: protecting not just systems and sites, but the safety and wellbeing of the people behind them.
Mark William Seth – Front of House Security Officer
My role is to welcome staff and visitors, ensure access is controlled, and maintain a safe and secure environment at the front of the building. I’m often the first point of contact, so I balance security responsibilities with providing a professional and approachable service.
I love working in security because I enjoy the variety. No two days are the same. I get to interact with people from all walks of life, solve problems on the spot, and know that I’m making a difference by keeping people and places safe.
An example of this happened one day while I was monitoring the CCTV screens, I spotted a delivery vehicle that had stopped in an unusual position outside the building. It didn’t seem right, so I quickly contacted the duty manager and went to check in person. It turned out the driver was having a medical emergency. We were able to call for help immediately, and the driver recovered safely. That moment reminded me how important vigilance is. Sometimes what you notice in real time can make all the difference.
Diana-Andreea Jugaru – Dog Handler
I love working in security because as a female dog handler in a male-dominated field, I know I’m breaking boundaries every day — and that’s exactly why I love what I do. This role challenges me physically and mentally, constantly pushing me to grow through hands-on experience and ongoing training. I’m proud to represent women in a specialised area of security where we’re still underrepresented. For me, it’s more than just a job — it’s about showing that strength, skill, and leadership know no gender. I’m here to make an impact, inspire change, and prove that women belong in every corner of this industry.
David Anton – Close Protection Officer
As a Close Protection Officer, I work on the frontline of security, ensuring the safety of the principal(s) during corporate engagements, events and travel. My role involves threat assessment, route planning, risk management, coordinating with all teams involved and making quick, informed decisions to protect people and assets.
I love working in security because every day is different and I’m always learning something new. Whether it’s protecting people, safeguarding assets, or managing high-profile events, there’s a real sense of responsibility and pride in knowing my work directly impacts the safety and peace of mind of others. One of my greatest satisfactions is seeing a big smile from my clients at the end of the job.
A defining moment for me was becoming a father. Protection suddenly took on a whole new meaning, night feeds felt like overnight security shifts and I quickly realised that a crying baby has a louder alarm system than any I’ve ever worked with. Even a simple walk with him and my wife feels like I’m on task: scanning the surroundings, planning routes and making sure no one gets too close to your VIP – only this time, it’s a baby and my family. It reminds me that security isn’t just a job, it’s a mindset and fatherhood has only sharpened that instinct.
