Judges

Debbie Bartlett

Security Industry Authority (SIA)

Debbie joined the SIA in April 2025 as the Chief Operating Officer.

Debbie joined the SIA from the Home Office, where she worked closely with ministers on a range of issues to improve public safety. This included emergency service preparedness, protective security policy, maritime and aviation security, and knife crime. Debbie was responsible for the delivery of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act (also known as Martyn’s Law).

With 22 years’ experience in the civil service, Debbie brings a wealth of experience in public service delivery. Debbie has a proven track record of bringing teams together and working closely with operational partners to deliver ‘real world’ change. Debbie has been responsible for the successful delivery of a variety of complex programmes, with risk management a key feature of Debbie’s career.

Geoff Brown

Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO)

Geoff joined West Yorkshire Police in 1982 and gained specialist skills and qualifications within the Firearms Support Unit where he qualified as an Intervention Officer, a Close Protection Officer, and a Tactical Advisor.

In 2001 Geoff transferred to North Yorkshire Police where he became lead for the Close Protection team managing the protected visits of The British Royal family, protected members of Parliament and foreign dignitaries.

In 2012 Geoff retired from policing and headed to Iraq to work for an Oil company as a security consultant, managing the logistics of local national and expat employees.

Upon returning to the UK Geoff took on the more challenging role of Security manager at University of York. Geoff developed the role and transformed a team that were seen by many as a physical asset security team, to a team that support and advise students, staff and visitors who may present with welfare and safeguarding issues, signposting to the relevant support services available. The team is now identified as the Campus Safety team, who are more approachable and engaging rather than being seen as the enforcers of discipline. This coincided with the launch of the state-of-the-art Campus Safety hub and control room.

In Sept 2024 a free transfer from University of York to University of Leeds occurred, and although Leeds has more students and staff, and is situated in the centre of a metropolitan city, the same concerns are applicable. Students, staff, and visitors require a supportive and engaging team who are available 24/7 365 days a year. A security infrastructure project with capital funding is approved, with a 5-year plan to transform the security team and it’s out of date centre into a modern fit for purpose development.

Geoff has been an active member of the Association of University Chief Security Officers and was a member of the executive as the Chair of the Northern region between 2017 & 2019. He was elected as the Vice Chair in 2023 and in April 2025 became the Chair taking over from Ollie Curran Head of Security at University College London (UCL)

Graham Bassett

City Security Council (CSC) 

Graham has worked in the security sector for over 25 years. He is the Co-Founder of AllSecurityEvents.com and involved in variety of volunteer roles within the security community to include:

Chair/Director of the City Security Council, Trustee of PTSD Resolution (UK Veterans Mental Health Charity), Trustee of the City of London Police Children’s Charity, ASIS European Regional Board Committee Member, Board Member of the Security Commonwealth, CSSC Executive London Team, Committee Member of the City of London Crime Prevention Association, City Security Magazine Editorial Team, Member and Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals, Freeman of the City of London, member of the Security Institute and the founding Director of GBRUK a niche London based search/recruitment consultancy.

He has been the recipient of various volunteer industry awards over the years,  including the OSPAs Lifetime Achievement Award.

Darren Carter

ASIS UK

Darren’s career spans 28 years within the security industry, 24 years of which have been within the hospitality sector.  Having held several senior management positions with major hotel chains, Darren is now in his 20th year as Group Director of Security & Safety for Edwardian Hotels London.

He takes an active role in his support of the wider security industry and currently holds several voluntary engagement roles as: Vice Chair of ASIS International UK Chapter, Chair of the Institute of Hotel Security Management, a certified member of The Security Institute and a member of the Security Commonwealth.  His position allows him the opportunity and privilege to represent the industry in a number of other capacities including the role of Industry Sector Lead (hotels) with CSSC, Chair of the Hotel Industry Fraud Forum and he sits on several multi agency strategic partnership groups focusing on countering terrorism, child exploitation and modern slavery.

Prior to joining the industry Darren served for 8 years in the Fleet Air arm, Royal Navy operating across Europe, North Africa and South America.

Anne Marie Chebib

United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA)

Anne Marie Chebib has been the Company Owner and Managing Director of Select Security and Stewarding Ltd for three decades. In that time, she has become one of the most well-respected Crowd Management practitioners and consultants for the special events industry with a reputation for the formulation of elegant solutions to challenging problems.

She is the Chair of the United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA) , which is the leading association on crowd management and associated practices. Preceding that role, she was the Secretary of the UKCMA for over 15 years. This work has led to regular representation on consultation committees and with Government and stakeholders, contributing to roundtables, inquiries and panels.

Recent achievements include the principal authorship of the Safer Crowds, Safer Venues- Good Practice for Crowd Management in UK Performance and Licensed Spaces and  Words Matter: The Language of Crowds. Anne Marie is the lead author of the Crowd Management chapter of The Purple Guide to Health, Safety and Welfare at Outdoor Events

She is a leading member of the Global Crowd Management Alliance’s Secretariat (GCMA), which represents worldwide crowd management and security services industry within both public and private sectors.  

Her specialties include strategic planning, agency liaison and the management of projects and personnel.  Her further interests include resilience, continuity planning and sustainability.

She takes her responsibilities seriously but likes to smile. Appreciates a well-prepared cup of tea as much as a well-designed event control room.

With her extensive background as a crowd management practitioner, she speaks with an authority that is grounded in pragmatism.

Siân Doherty

Women’s Security Society (WSS)

After studying Early Childhood Studies at Bristol University Sian ‘fell into’ a CCTV operator role. Sian has built a career spanning 14 years within the Security Industry. She is now Managing Director of Arc Monitoring and a director of the Women’s Security Society. Sian is also a member of the Security Institute and sits on the BSIA Alarm Receiving Centre special interest group committee.

Having established her career within Security, she hopes to inspire others to see security as a career of choice.  

Hayley Elvins

The Security Institute

Richard Fogelman

National Security Inspectorate (NSI)

Richard Fogelman became Chief Executive of NSI in March 2023. Prior to joining NSI Richard spent almost a decade as CEO of a leading national charity supporting bereaved young people.  He has a law degree and over 15 years’ management experience having worked in London’s financial markets at numerous banks and financial firms.

Established more than 50 years ago, NSI holds a prominent position as the UK’s premier Certification Body specialising in the security and fire safety sectors. Its UKAS-accredited certification process ensures rigorous audits of over 2000 companies annually, spanning the UK and Eire, to verify compliance with British and European standards, relevant industry codes of practice, and current legislation, playing a significant role in elevating industry standards and fostering confidence among buyers.

Daniel Garnham

Security Industry Federation (SIF)

Founder and General Secretary of the UK’s trade union solely for security professionals, the Security Industry Federation. In 2022, Daniel was carrying out SIA training when he saw that there was no specific trade union for the security industry, now the SIF is a UK listed trade union and provides bespoke support for hundreds of security professionals across the UK.

Daniel has been instrumental in lobbying the SIA and Government for meaningful change and legislation to protect UK security workers. Daniel is an ex UK police officer with 20 years’ service investigating transnational cybercrimes and providing trauma support after terrorist incidents, notably the 2017 Manchester Arena attack.

Played a key role in implementing a digital transformation to a national UK police force and conducting training to hundreds of police officers across the UK in criminal investigations and digital forensics. Daniel is the director of GentiumUK Cyber and an expert in the field of Cybercrime methodologies and typologies for the Global Online Harm Alliance providing expert advice and training to global partners into investigations of all types of online harm including cyber enabled romance fraud, human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

Trainer and advisor to Interpol, Council of Europe, CEELI and the American Bar Association in cyber investigations, the dark web and the criminal exploitation of virtual currencies and Blockchain technology. Providing training on a domestic and international basis to investigation teams throughout the world.

Eve Grisenthwaite

The Defence Industry Security Association (DISA)

Eve is the Secure by Design Lead at Accenture and Vice Chair of DISA, with 10 years of experience in Information Assurance, Cyber Security, and Risk Management.

She specializes in securing government supply chains and collaborating with the UK Government to ensure robust, resilient, and compliant technologies. Her expertise spans strategic initiatives that protect critical infrastructure and drive digital transformation in public sector organizations, combining technical depth with a focus on cyber security and risk management to safeguard national priorities.

Paul Fullwood

Security Industry Authority (SIA)

Paul was appointed as the interim Director for Inspections and Enforcement of the SIA on 17^th May 2021.

Paul joined the SIA after a 33-year career with the Police Service and previously HM Armed Forces. Paul retired from policing in 2020 as Assistant Chief Constable for Bedfordshire Police, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Constabularies with responsibility for major crime, armed policing, counter terrorism, roads policing, scientific services, civil contingencies, dogs and public order specialist services.

Paul was the national policing lead for the strategic investigation of complex, sensitive and serious crime, advising on policy, mentoring and developing future senior law enforcement leaders and senior detectives. Paul has been a detective at every rank and has served previously with Sussex Police, National Crime Squad and Cambridgeshire Constabulary.

Paul continues to provide support across UK law enforcement as a College of Policing Associate and advisor. This also includes ongoing oversight of a high-profile child homicide enquiry and recently leading on sensitive national thematic/homicide reviews on behalf of the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) across the United Kingdom.

Yolanda Hamblen

International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO UK)

Yolanda brings over 16 years of information and physical security experience in roles leading strategy development for Cybersecurity Operations and Education & Awareness programs and managing Cybersecurity Engineering and Cybersecurity Emergency Response teams and Cybersecurity consulting, audits and compliance (GRC). Many years of her career have been spent in a risk advisory capacity supporting governance, compliance, risk assessment, fraud investigations, business continuity and disaster recovery planning, auditing, tabletop exercises and resilience training, in addition to cybersecurity transformation and program management.  Yolanda also served 7 years with the British Police Force as a Police Constable and Police Detective.

Yolanda also Hosts the Security Circle Podcast with (IFPO) The International Foundation for Protection Officers in pro bono ‘giving back to the community project’. The podcast series features ‘Best in Class’ guests that represent security excellence in our global security community with the singular purpose of connecting our communities’ front lines with industry giants, it has achieved a status of being in the top 22% of downloaded podcasts in the world. (Reported by Buzzsprout) 

Yolanda sits on the Advisory Board of IFPO UK. She is an ASIS Member and sits on the ASIS International Information Security Steering Committee after serving 3 years tenure on the ASIS Physical Steering Committee, and she finds ways to connect with other women security professionals around the world in small projects, including mentoring young women professionals.

Yolanda is currently a feature columnist for Security Buyer and writes for each issue. 

Yolanda co-hosts The Security Vine Podcast, the first podcast of its kind celebrating security, wine and entertainment.

Passionate about Mental Health Yolanda is now a Mental Health First Aider and advocates for good mental health and wellbeing in all roles both in and out of work. Yolanda is passionate about amplifying the voices of the marginalised in our communities and is also an LGBTQ+ Ally and promotes evolving allyship.

Paul Harvey

Terrorist Information New York Group (TINYg)

Paul is actively involved in several prominent organisations, networks and social value initiatives, where he contributes to the advancement of the security profession and the protection of the public.

These include: a Registered Chartered Security Professional (CSyP), International Strategic Advisor and former UK Chair of the TINYg Global Counterterrorism Network, Fellow Institute of Strategic Risk Management (F.ISRM), a member of the City Security Council (CSC) Executive Leadership Group, IFSEC Global Top Influencer Award, a member of the Security Institute (SyI), holds a BSc(Hons) Degree and is a Freeman of the City of London.

Paul is also an experienced Non-Executive Director, advisor, mentor, presenter, panellist, Chair, podcaster, and host.

Maggie Horritt

Perimeter Security Suppliers Association (PSSA)

Maggie Horritt is a distinguished mechanical design engineer with a rich history in security product design. Following the tragedy at Hillsborough Football Stadium and the publication of the Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds (The Green Guide), Maggie became involved in the safe design of sports stadium turnstiles, including Arsenal, Manchester City, Newcastle, and Liverpool.

Her transition into Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) product design was a natural progression. At Broughton Controls, Maggie led the design team for several groundbreaking products that set the benchmark for HVM products in the high-security industry. In 2008, she and her team received a Design Industry Innovation Award for the VEE Gate and were finalists in the Counter Terror Expo Excellence Awards in 2013 for the 940I series Rising Arm Barriers.

Her subsequent roles at Geoquip and Hesco further solidified her as a key figure in the development of various successful HVM security products.

Maggie is now the senior auditor at the Perimeter Security Suppliers Association (PSSA). In this crucial role, she ensures that PSSA members adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Her responsibilities include consultations with security professionals and organisations to provide expert advice on security standards and practices to the membership.

Claire Humble

The Security Commonwealth (SyCom)

Founder and CEO of Security Consultancy & Training Company Nuparadigm.  A successful entrepreneur with proven business acumen plus a Masters’ Degree in International Security underpinned by 30+ years in-depth expertise in the provision of safety, security, risk, resilience and event management.

A recognised and accomplished transformational change agent who’s success as a leader and manager has been featured in two global Security Journals (IFSEC Global & International Security Journal) 

A confident and accomplished key speaker and presenter fluent in the language of security and resilience, with proven communication skills at all levels of organisations.

Mike Hurst

International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO UK)

Mike Hurst CPP® CPOI has been active in the Security and Fire Sector for over 30 years and is Director of executive recruiters HJA Consult.  Through his professional and volunteer leadership experience, he has developed an excellent international network of senior security professionals.  A regular contributor  to the security media, he has spoken and been on panels at events globally.

He is joint founder of AllSecurityEvents.com the listing site and is named on the IFSEC Global Influencers list.  He is also the founder of the #SecurityMindsMatter project.

He is the Executive Director of the International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) UK &  Ireland.

Paul Jeffrey

Perimeter Security Suppliers Association (PSSA)

Paul Jeffrey is a founder Director of the Perimeter Security Suppliers Association (PSSA) serving as its Chairman for the last 2 years. He has a background of over 27 years in vehicle access control and hostile vehicle mitigation and ran one of the first business to start vehicle impact testing in the UK.

As part of his PSSA remit, Paul has been involved with improving quality levels within the physical security industry and driving better communication between all stakeholders in perimeter security and event protection.

Jayne King

Security Commonwealth (SyCOM)

Jayne King joined the NHS in 1991 and has extensive experience in managing both in house and outsourced Healthcare Security Services. She is the Head of Security and Site Services at Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London, which is one of the largest and oldest hospitals in the UK. One of Jayne’s key priorities is the building of partnerships and community working within the security sector and the promotion of the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion strategy within the security industry.  Jayne is an Accredited Security Management Specialist (ASMS), a Fellow of the Security Institute (FSyI), President of the National Association for Healthcare Security (NAHS) and the current Chair of the Security Commonwealth (SyCom).

Prior to her NHS career, Jayne spent 9 years in the Royal Air Force assigned to both National and NATO Forces.

Paddy Kyle

British Security Industry Association (BSIA)

Paddy Kyle is the CCO at the British Security Industry Association (BSIA).With over two decades of experience in the security sector, Paddy has a passion for the UK professional security industry.

Part of Paddy’s key drive at the BSIA is to aid companies and clients working in the professional security arena to collectively deliver professional services to the highest standards and educate regarding industry best practice.

Steve Lampett

Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB)

A competent, qualified and capable professional with 35 years’ experience in the fire and security sector, which has been gained in a variety of roles both in the UK and overseas, most of that time specifically working in compliance roles. Currently working for SSAIB in the role of Technical Manager.

A strong advocate of utilising new technology to innovate and improve security, resilience and reliability in the sector.

Chairs and actively participates in many UK, European and International standards working groups and has been instrumental in the development of guidance and codes of practice in cyber security and the use of new technology by the security sector.

Liz Lloyd

British Security Industry Association (BSIA)

Liz has been working in the security sector for nearly twenty years and is the Head of Marketing and Communications at the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) where she is responsible for communicating the incredible work the BSIA and its members are doing within the sector, along with organising the British Security Awards.

Her passion is creating events for the security sector where people can grow their skills and business connections. She was a driving force behind the Women in Security Awards (the security industry’s only awards dedicated to recognising the achievements of women who go above and beyond their job description) and developed the Security TWENTY Events for Professional Security Magazine.

Through her work with women in the security sector, she has helped create and develop the Women in Security Network which is enabling women from across the security sector connect, grow and develop. The WiS Network continues to grow from strength to strength and is now hosting multiple networking events throughout the year. She also helped create the Women in Security Golf Event to encourage women to play golf and give them the confidence to participate in security industry golf events.

She is actively working with the Women in Security Network to make the security sector a career of choice for women. Liz is a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals and sits on two of their committees as well as being part of the EDI group for the Company.

Martin Lomas

National Association Healthcare Security (NAHS)

Martin considers himself to be a self-motivated individual with the desire to succeed and be successful in all areas of life, with the ability to inspire and motivate colleagues, clients, and friends, as well as being a natural leader.

He has overall responsibility for creating a high quality and effective security service to EQUANS existing clients and customers. Whilst driving continuous improvement and innovation to enhancing service quality and creating bespoke services. 

He has experience within the NAHS business for over ten years and currently operates as a Board of Director driving excellence and operational support to the NHS industry.

Guy Mathias

Food and Drink Security Association (FDSA)

Guy is a subject matter expert on Extremism and a former recipient of the prestigious “UK Security Manager of the Year Award for Services to Industry”

He directed counter extremist operations for the Research & Pharmaceutical sector, during an unprecedented campaign of public order threat, violence & intimidation, notably as Chair of The UK Pharmaceutical Industry Security Forum, leading on strategies for security, staff protection and pre-employment screening. He worked in a pivotal role to develop and maintain close, effective working relationships with industrial, academic, Police and Government sectors.

He has also lectured on the threat posed by Extremism to industrial, academic and government sectors & International Security, Police & UK Government bodies.

Guy was a corporate security advisor to GSK, responsible for auditing global manufacturing facilities and writing a treatise entitled “Extremism: Past, Present, Future”

A Fellow of the Security Institute, Guy served a six-year elected Director period as Validation Board Chair & Strategy Director.

In 2017, he was appointed Chair of the Food & Drink Security Association. In 2018 he was appointed Chair of Eastern Region Cross Sector Safety & Security Cascade (CSSC).

In 2019 he was appointed Chair of The Security Commonwealth until 2021 to then become Immediate Past Chair, continuing to serve on the SyCom Board and was also chosen amongst the top ten thought leaders at the 2019 edition of IFSEC’s Global Influencers.

In 2020, Guy was appointed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) to its Strategic Forum. The Strategic Forum is a group of senior and experienced stakeholders with significant  private security expertise,which works with the SIA on the development of ideas around public protection.

Guy is currently the Risk & Operations Director at Suntory.

Ross McDermott

Eastern Cross-sector Security and Communications (CSSC)

After a 14 year career within the UK Police Service which endowed Ross with experience within Uniformed Operations and as a Senior Detective. He developed specialist skills in Public Order / Public Safety Command, Counter Terrorism Security Co-ordination (CTSecCo), as well as a Hostage and Crisis Negotiator, co-ordinator and trainer of this discipline.

Since moving into Corporate Security in 2017 he has worked within National and Global Organisations within the broad realm of Risk, Security and Safety; currently leading the Security and Safety Programmes of a Global Research and Bio-tech company across the EMEA Region.

Aside from this work, Ross also delivers training, coaching and mentoring focussed on communication skills and leadership development where he is part of the Compass for Life programme as a ‘Navigator’.

Darren Miller

Aerospace, Defence and Security (ADS)

Darren joined ADS after 30 years’ service in Hampshire Constabulary. He previously held roles as an experienced Tactical Firearms Commander and Public Order and Public Safety Commander, planning and delivering various operations including music events, sporting events, protests and other policing operations.

He also previously worked on a range of national policing issues including firearms licensing and ICT programmes, as well as chairing the Tactical Coordination Group for Hampshire Local Resilience Forum‘s multi-agency response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tim Molden

ASIS UK Chapter

Tim is Head of Security & Licensing for Capital Arches Group, McDonald’s, overseeing 37 restaurants. Prior to this he was The Director of Security for The Savoy Hotel, responsible for all Security Operations, Health & Safety and Fire Safety.

Prior to joining The Savoy, Tim served in The Metropolitan Police where he was the lead planner for hotels for The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, London 2012 Olympic Games, State Visit of President Obama and was the Business Engagement Lead in Westminster.

He is a Board Director for ASIS UK, Chair of Membership and a Court Assistant of The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals and sits on the committee for The City of London Crime Prevention Association.

Jules Parke-Robinson

Cross-sector Safety & Security Communications (CSSC)

Jules transitioned to the private sector after 20 years in the British Army. With experience across security, investigations and resilience, Jules is currently the global head of security risk management at Philip Morris International, where she is responsible for the design, delivery and governance of corporate security.

Alaster Purchase

National Security Inspectorate (NSI)

Alaster has over 30 years of experience in the software and services industry, leading highly successful growth and transformation strategies. Recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer for GS1 UK, and latterly as Corporate Marketing Director for a Panasonic company. 

Barry Palmer

Terrorist Information New York Group (TINYg)

Barry Palmer BEM is Chairman of UK Advisory Council and part of the Terrorism Information Networking Group (TINYg).

He has 32 years of senior security management experience within hospitality, the NHS, media and cultural sector.

Specialising in counter terrorism strategies, emergency planning and resilience. Worked for many years with business improvement districts along the Southbank, Southwark and London Bridge and sat on several international boards delivering workshops on emergency planning an and disaster recovery across the Globe.

Russ Phillips

United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA)

Russ Phillips is a retired Sussex Police officer with more than 18 years of frontline counter-terrorism experience. A former Counter Terrorism Security Coordinator and Counter Terrorism Search Advisor, he went on to lead the coordination of the National Barrier Asset for nine years and later joined the National Counter Terrorism Policing HQ as part of the Vehicle Threat Mitigation Unit.

In these roles, Russ played a pivotal part in securing some of the UK’s most high-profile and high-threat events, including two royal weddings, two G7 summits, multiple NATO gatherings, five U.S. presidential visits, and a host of major sporting, military, and VIP occasions. His unique expertise made him a trusted advisor at the very heart of national security operations.

Russ is also a published author on counterterrorism, having written chapters for the Purple Guide (the definitive global reference for safe event management) and Safer Crowds, Safer Venues. His insights continue to inform best practice across the events industry and remain accessible through the UK’s ProtectUK platform.

Known for his creative and proportional approach to risk, Russ believes in tailoring solutions rather than applying a “one size fits all” model. His deep understanding of terrorism threats and event security has earned him a reputation as a respected and innovative voice in the field.

Since retiring from policing in 2022, Russ has become Managing Director of Island Site Protective Ltd, a specialist consultancy in counterterrorism. He is also a freelance consultant, former Director of Counter Terrorism & Risk at Crowdguard, a member of the Security Institute, and a qualified Event Counter Terrorism Risk Manager. Today, he continues to advise global brands, major sporting organisations, and high-profile clients on reducing and managing their exposure to terrorism.

Satia Rai

International Professional Security Association (IPSA)

Satia is Chief Operating Officer for Leverage Security and CEO of the International Professional Security Association (IPSA). Satia has enjoyed an extensive career in the security profession starting on the front line in the retail sector, three decades ago.

She progressed to management and senior leadership roles, with experience in security services and risk management within the public and private sector at both operational and strategic levels.

Satia has played a significant role at C-suite level in various key organisations and has an exceptional record of leading transformational change within the private security sector.

As well as being a dedicated security professional, she is an outstanding spokesperson for equality, diversity and inclusivity in all of its forms. She is named as a Top Influencer 2024 by Security Journal (SJ) UK. 

Paul Phillips

Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB)

Having trained as an electronics engineer, Paul worked for security equipment manufacturers from 1994 until joining BSIA in 2009, later becoming Technical Manager. He gained an MSc in Security and Risk Management in 2006. Paul began working for SSAIB in 2017, initially as compliance manager. He became SSAIB’s General Manager in 2022 with the responsibility of the day to day running of the company.

Along with development of codes of practice for various security topics, he has been involved in the development of British and European standards for electronic security systems since 2002. Paul currently chairs the group that develops the European standards for intruder alarm systems as well as the British Standards committee for electronic access control.

Don Randall MBE

The Register of Chartered Security Professionals (CSyP) / City of London Crime Prevention Association (CoLCPA)

Don Randall served with the City of London Police from 1969-1995, with specific emphasis on fraud and counter terrorism.  Following 13 years at JPMorgan Chase as Managing Director, he joined the Bank of England in 2008 and was appointed the Bank’s first Chief Information Security Officer in 2013.

Don is chairman of the ‘Sister Banks’, City of London Crime Prevention Association and ‘Project Griffin’ and a member of the City of London Crime Disorder Reduction Panel.  He is also a member of the London First Security Advisory Board, Executive Member of the London Resilience Board, Chairman of the London Resilience Business Sector Panel and Co-founder and Vice Chairman of the Cross Sector Safety & Security Communications initiative.

Don is a Fellow of the Security Institute and a Chartered Security Professional.  He has also served as an external lay member of the City of London Police Committee.

In 2007, Don was awarded an MBE for services to law enforcement for the harmonisation of the public/private sectors.  He was presented with a Security Excellence Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Security Profession in 2013 and in 2015 was a recipient of the International Police and Public Safety 9/11 Commendation Medal.  In 2018 he received the UK OSPAs Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by the Security Institute.

Don is currently a Senior Security Advisor to several major firms engaged in the following areas: cyber security, legal and regulatory, physical and technical security, international close protection, pre-employment screening, risk management, counter-terrorism, trans-national criminal activities, asset recovery and fraud investigations.

Roger Ringham

National Association for Healthcare Security (NAHS)

Roger is Chair of the National Association for Healthcare Security (NAHS). He is a Board Director of NAHS Limited (Companies House registration 13242341), and Chair of the South West Region Security Management Group (SWSMG).

In addition, Roger works as an Assistant Director in the NHS, where he is the Head of Service for Security and Fraud Experts (SAFE).

SAFE delivers specialist services including security management, counter-fraud and related training to: NHS organisations, Local Government Authorities and to the private sector. It is responsible for the protection of >30,000 employees at over 1,000 sites nationwide from the threat of physical harm and financial abuse.

Before joining the NHS, Roger served as a Police Officer and spent most of his time in a variety of investigative roles. Specialising in the investigation of major, serious, and complex crime.

In addition, he trained as an Authorised Firearms Officer. Working in V.I.P. Protection and engaged on Category ‘A’ escort duties (Transportation of High Value Targets).

Ruth Ripley

Women’s Security Society (WSS)

Ruth is a dedicated security professional with a passion for promoting gender diversity and inclusivity in the industry. With a background in teaching Religious Education, Ethics, and Philosophy, Ruth began her career in education before transitioning to security. She has served as the UK Event Security Manager for the Walt Disney Company on behalf of Wilson James and is currently making significant contributions as the Event Security Contract Manager for the Southbank Centre on behalf of Carlisle Support Services.

In her various roles, Ruth has taken charge of overseeing security operations and managing risk for major events, ensuring the safety and security of all attendees and personnel. Her experience as the UK Event Security Manager for the Walt Disney Company and Security Manager for FGH Security has honed her expertise in event security and risk mitigation, enabling her to skilfully navigate the complexities of large-scale gatherings.

In addition to her work in the security industry, Ruth is also a co-chair of the Women’s Security Society, a UK-based organisation where she actively promotes the professional development of women working in security-related roles and campaigns for gender equality within the industry. She is also the newly appointed General Secretary of the Security Industry Federation where she helps support front line officers and takes charge of the day-to-day operations.

Ruth has established herself as a respected figure within the security industry, and her dedication to her work has been recognised through her nomination as a finalist for the Women in Security’s Security Manager of the Year award. Ruth’s focus on building a more diverse and inclusive industry underscores her commitment to fostering a more equitable and supportive community of security professionals and her commitment to advancing gender diversity and equity within security, combined with her experience and expertise, make her a valuable asset.

Michelle Russell

Security Industry Authority (SIA)

Michelle joined the SIA as Director of Partnership and Interventions in January 2020, leading the criminal enforcement and regulatory inspection functions. She was appointed as the Chief Executive of the SIA in October 2020. She has over 25 years’ experience of working in regulation and regulatory environments in both the public and private sectors.

Prior to the SIA, Michelle worked at the Charity Commission where she was the Director of Investigations, Monitoring and Enforcement for over 5 years. She was accountable for its high-risk investigations and compliance work and specialist monitoring, outreach and accountancy functions. Michelle developed national strategies on counter-terrorism, fraud and financial abuse, and safeguarding and sat on a number of cross government and industry groups, particularly on terrorism and serious crime issues.

Before that Michelle held various other operational and compliance roles, and started her career as a qualified solicitor in the private and then public sector.

David Scott 

Skills for Security

David’s passion lies in the development and improvement of training within the fire and security industry. As a past apprentice himself, he is driven by his love for the industry that provided him with so many opportunities to grow and develop. With a determination to give something back, David’s career goal is to raise apprenticeship participation, employer engagement in training and continuously drive industry improvements by raising the standard of training delivered throughout the United Kingdom.  

Over the last 8 years David has been employed by New College Lanarkshire with a remit to drive continuous improvement in their apprenticeship programme. After a successful number of years lecturing, David was promoted to Curriculum & Quality Manager in 2016, where he was responsible for the curriculum strategy, development & delivery to over 450 students, with the line management responsibility of 20 staff across a mixed curriculum of Carpentry & Joinery, Built Environment and Electronic Fire & Security sectors. David’s passion was instrumental in New College Lanarkshire’s rise in becoming the largest provider of the fire and security apprenticeship programme in the UK, with 200 apprentices enrolled. Since then, New College Lanarkshire have had huge success at national events, with 12 placed winners at the security excellence awards over 8 years. 

David’s commitment to the industry is evident; he regularly attends key industry events across the UK to deliver engaging and promotional talks to industry about training. 

Qualified to degree level in both Teaching and Management, David is an advocate of self-development and continuous improvement, and has recently become an accredited chartered manager with the CMI. 

Sarb Sembhi

Mental Health in Cyber Security Foundation

Sarb is the CTO & CISO at Virtually Informed, and has previously been a CTO & CISO for the Noord Group. He has previous worked as a consultant covering most issues in risk and security. Sarb’s contributions to the industry include the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Defence and Security Committee and its Cybersecurity working group. Other contributions include: Past President of the ISACA London Chapter, Chair of ISACA International GRA Region 3 Sub-Committee, Chair of ISACA International GRA Committee, ISSA UK Advisory Group member, InfoSecurity Magazine Editorial Group member. Sarb has also served on several Security Standards Groups, and continues to write for several publications and speak at risk and security events around the world.

Emma Shaw, MBA, CSyP, FSyl

The Defence Industry Security Association (DISA)

Emma is the founder and Managing Director of Esoteric Ltd, a well-established Electronic Bug Sweeping, Counter-Espionage and Intelligence gathering company based in Surrey, UK.  An MBA graduate, and a Chartered Security Professional (CSyP) Emma’s early career was spent with the Royal Military Police, followed by a career in the Ministry of Defence.

She is a Vice President of the Security Institute, having previously been Chairman (2013 to 2015); Board Director of the Defence Industry Security Association (DISA) and council member for City and Security Resilience Networks (CSARN).

She is a Non-Executive Director of Kings Security Group Solutions Ltd, and Falanx Group Ltd, an AIM listed geopolitical and intelligence company. In 2012, Emma won the Security Consultant of the Year at the Security Excellence Awards.

Gary Stephen

Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO)

With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in law enforcement, security management, and strategic operations, Gary has built a strong reputation and is widely respected as a leader in security, risk management, and operational excellence.

Gary trained in infantry and weapons tactics with the Royal Air Force before beginning service in the Metropolitan Police Force, where he spent 16 years in various roles. During this tenure, Gary led intelligence-driven operations while fostering strong relationships with policing agencies.

Transitioning from law enforcement to the private security sector, Gary became a Contract Manager at MITIE Security, overseeing national blue-chip clients, including Vodafone, Network Rail, and Diageo. Progressing to Senior Operations Manager for Scotland, Gary managed seven operational managers and a workforce of 773 security officers, ensuring effective service delivery and financial management.

A move to HFD Group in 2014 provided an opportunity to lead security strategy for high-profile developments, including NPSA-accredited data centres, secure government buildings, and university properties. There, Gary played a key role in implementing ISO 9001 standards, improving security operations, and integrating cutting-edge technology to meet industry best practices.

Since 2016, Gary has served as Head of Security & Logistics at the University of Glasgow, a leading institution with over 42,000 students and 9,000 staff. Overseeing security, transport, stores, and digital strategy, Gary has led major modernisation initiatives, including the construction of an advanced security control room integrating CCTV, intruder alarms, and access control systems. In addition, strategic leadership has driven improvements in university logistics, sustainability efforts, and operational efficiencies.

From 2020 to 2021, Gary took on the additional role of Head of Operations, directing facilities management, maintenance, cleaning, and waste management during a significant departmental restructuring. The ability to manage complex organisational change while maintaining staff morale and operational efficiency demonstrated strong leadership capabilities.

As Scotland Regional Chair of the Association of Chief Security Officers (AUCSO) from 2022-2024, Gary played a key role in counter-terrorism strategy, policing partnerships, and Martyn’s Law advocacy, representing the higher education sector at conferences and government meetings.

Bringing extensive experience in crisis management, operational leadership, and stakeholder engagement, Gary continues to be a respected figure in the security industry, driving excellence in public sector and higher education security.

Joe Stokoe

Aerospace, Defence & Security Group (ADS)

Joe Stokoe is currently Head of Policing and Law Enforcement Engagement for ADS Group.  ADS is the trade association representing over 1,300 members in the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space sectors.  He has extensive policing experience in planning, organising and delivering safe and secure events and working with the multitude of partners who are all required to achieve this.  He has also worked with several central government departments (HO, FCDO, DCMS) in these roles.

He was previously an officer with the Metropolitan Police for over 32 years.  He was an accredited Silver and Bronze Public Order and CBRN commander and policed multiple demonstrations, protests and events across London including the response to the Grenfell Tower fire, the Funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II and the Coronation of HM King Charles III.  He has also worked extensively overseas as the senior officer responsible for UK police officers deployed during international football matches.  This has included working with Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea and the England national team.  A major highlight of this role was spending nearly six weeks in Russia during the 2018 World Cup as the team progressed to the semi-finals.  In his final role, he was seconded into the Home Office Science directorate working on science and technology that can assist Frontline Policing.  This included working with SMEs to develop innovative ways of dealing with some of the most difficult challenges facing police as they seek to prevent crime and maintain public confidence.

Gary Thomas

Association of Security Consultants (ASC)

Gary Thomas has 35 years’ experience working in the security industry, beginning his career as an alarm installer, and progressing organically over the years to where he now specialises as an independent security consultant.

Gary is a full member of the Security Institute, the Institution of Engineering and Technology and ASIS, and has served as on the Board of the Association of Security Consultants since 2018.

Marie Tyler

International Professional Security Association (IPSA)

Marie is a leading industry personality and Executive Board Director at IPSA. As Head of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships at The Game Changer, she has led global campaigns for FTSE 100 companies. A former IBM apprentice, she’s also a voice-over artist and podcast host championing inclusive innovation and tech in the security industry for over 20 years.

Johanna Watling

Security Industry Federation (SIF)

Jo works day-to-day with workers right across the private security industry, spanning all roles, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.

Incorporating decades of experience in people management within the nighttime economy into her advocacy work, she demonstrates a commitment to not only understanding the needs of security workers but also actively collaborating with employers to create solutions that contribute to a more equitable and just working environment.

Jo is an elected local parish councillor with a true dedication to making a positive impact at grassroots level. By directly addressing the concerns and needs of her community, she actively contributes to positive changes in the lives of those she represents.

Jo has always campaigned for causes she feels strongly about, specifically the importance of fair treatment and equality. She has a particular interest in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) within the security industry and is an active member of the Security Industry EDI Forum, advocating for policies and practices that ensure fair treatment and opportunities for all individuals.

Jo stands out as a force to be reckoned with. Her unwavering commitment to justice and sympathetic ear, along with her proactive approach to serving her trade union members, is second to none. Her passion and expertise make her an invaluable asset in SIF’s pursuit of positive change within the industry.

Gary Thomas has 35 years’ experience working in the security industry, beginning his career as an alarm installer, and progressing organically over the years to where he now specialises as an independent security consultant.

Gary is a full member of the Security Institute, the Institution of Engineering and Technology and ASIS, and has served as on the Board of the Association of Security Consultants since 2018.

Lynn Watts-Plumpkin

Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB)

Lynn has worked in the security industry for 40 years and has vast experience across all security services sectors, including contract and in house security and is a Fellow of the International Institute of Risk and Safety Managers.  She works for SSAIB as the Management Systems Scheme Manager running a team of auditors who undertake ISO 9001, Quality management, ISO 14001 Environmental management and ISO 45001 Health and Safety management systems audits for security services, security systems and the fire sectors.  She has also conducted audits overseas, including Iraq, and was chosen by the Home Office to be part of the International Capabilities Team.

Lynn is currently chair the GW/3 British Standards committees for private security management and services and management systems in complex environments, although she is standing down in October this year, having undertaken this role for over eight years.

Anas Wihaib

Women’s Security Society (WSS)

Anas Wihaib is a security professional with a wealth of experience in public-private partnerships, business continuity, and corporate resilience. While originally planning to become a Scenes of Crime Officer, Anas discovered a passion for the private security industry and went on to complete a Master’s Programme focusing on the impact of business crime across UK retailers. This marked the beginning of her career in security partnership.

Over the years, Anas has built a strong network of contacts in both law enforcement and private security, and has worked on a number of counter-narrative programmes aimed at bridging the gap between private security and law enforcement. Her expertise in public-private partnerships has made her a valuable asset in the field of corporate resilience.

In addition to her work in the security industry, Anas is also an Intel Analyst for Spotify, where she applies her analytical skills to help protect the platform and its users. She is also a Co-Chair of the Women’s Security Society, where she plays an active role in promoting gender diversity and inclusivity in the security industry.

Anas is passionate about promoting and professionalising the security industry as a desirable career path for those embarking on their career, or those considering a new path in their career journey. As such, she is proud to have joined the board of the Women’s Security Society, where she hopes to work on a number of innovative projects with the wider board and partners. Her dedication to advancing the industry and her commitment to collaboration make her a valuable member of the security community.

Andy Williams

Terrorist Information New York Group (TINYg)

Andy Williams JP FRSA FSyI F.ISRM is Deputy Group Chairman and Director of TINYg, the international counter terrorism information sharing network. 

Now in his fifth decade in law enforcement and security management, Andy spends a large proportion of time volunteering as a security profession mentor and as a magistrate. He was formally Chairman of the UK Chapter and Regional Vice President of ASIS international, Middle Warden of the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals and a member of the Validation Board of the Security Institute. He is also a member of several security related advisory councils. 

Andy is a regular presenter at international security conferences, has written several articles for security publications and has been interviewed on television in relation to security issues.