Thought Leadership Summit

2026 THOUGHT LEADERSHIP SUMMIT PROGRAMME

Chair: Professor Martin Gill, Perpetuity Research

Rules don’t build trust, people do
Richard Fogelman, CEO – National Security Inspectorate (NSI)

What does a partnership with the private security sector look like to the police?
Jenny Gilmer, ACC South Wales Police and NPCC lead for security sector

While there is recognition in Government that the private security sector plays a key role in public safety – how could it be otherwise? There has long been a perception that the police service is sceptical, but where does it stand now? What are the main opportunities, and what barriers exist to achieving them?

What difference can the SIA initiatives really make?
Michelle Russell, Chief Executive – Security Industry Authority (SIA)

Martyn’s Law and business registration/licensing, have long been heralded as important developments – but when will they happen and what difference will they make to improving practical security? What can be done in the interim to prepare? Is meaningful momentum being generated for change, and what does that look like?

Does sentencing work?
Victoria Ailes, Barrister – 6KBW College Hill

There has long been a perception – particularly amongst those involved in tackling crime – that sentencing is ‘soft’.  But is it? What are the key principles that underpin its aims? Does it work? Is it truly soft? What would make it better?

How can the security sector improve its image?
Michael Kill FRSA FIH, CEO – Night Time Industries Association
Annie Chebib, Chair – United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA)
Barrie Millett,  Director Assurance and Corporate Security – Mitie
Charlotte Howell, Research Manager – Perpetuity Research

The adverse public image of private security has long plagued its attempts to present itself as a professional service and credible contributor to public safety and honourable partner of the police. There are signs things are changing but are they really?

This discussion will address several key questions:

• What are the specific issues that underpin the perceived negative image?
• What are the unique features of security that distinguish it from other services?
• What approaches are currently working, what should be planned?

What the bosses say: what are the routes to creating a thriving environment for good security amidst current challenges?
Claire Shrosbree, CEO – CYS Security
Iain McCallister, CEO – MAN Commercial Protection

This popular session is a highlight of the Summit each year. Industry leaders will share their insights on the issues occupying their minds today.  Why are they important? How are they being resolved? What does the next year look like for them?

An update on S12: questions and answers
Peter Harrison, Deputy Chair – S12

The aim of S12 is to provide a forum for the guarding sector to be represented and become a point of contact for government. Peter Harrison will provide a short update and provide you with a chance to ask ‘quick fire questions’.

Doors open to the event at 11:30 am, where attendees will enjoy an exhibition of security products and services. Lunch will be provided. The event will end around 5pm.

Tickets are: £99 + VAT (includes lunch, entrance to the exhibition, conference and afternoon refreshments).

For those wishing to promote their products and services to a diverse audience of stakeholders, desktop exhibition space is available on a first come first served basis at £495 +VAT (includes 2 Summit tickets), for further details contact Christine Brooks: c.brooks@theospas.com

Following the Summit, the Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs) gala dinner will take place, tickets can be booked here.