Sir David Veness, CBE QPM Senior Advisor Pilgrims Group Ltd


Chairman Executive board London First


Global threat and response developments in 2014 are


S E C U R I T Y O R G A N I S A T I O N S ’ V I E W S Cont’d


protection of people, property and information, whether it comes from natural, or human threat factors.


Sue Seaby Chair Women’s Security Society


At this time of heightened threat, it is crucial to take a holistic approach and consider all risks to the


security of your organisation.


With the media spotlight on cyber crime, bringing with it the corporate focus, remember that a large percentage of cyber attacks begin with a breach of physical security or with an insider. Everyone involved in security should have a good understanding of what’s normal and be alert to any changes in behaviour or normal operation.


It is a challenge to maintain an ongoing awareness of the increased security threat, with attention needed on the ever-increasing range of risks, such as the Ebola crisis and the ongoing impact of budget constraints. By working together, developing an understanding of roles and responsibilities and where security can be integrated, it is possible to continually improve your security response. Include your complete supply chain within your approach.


Many organisations want more females within their security teams, but numbers are still relatively low. A more flexible approach to work would help both men and women. The time is right to look into working practices and create a better reputation for security roles.


An opportunity to bring more women into security exists as the military downsizes and budget cuts impact police forces. The skills of both the women and men in these organisations often match what is needed in the corporate world.


Of course, they must be realistic about the opportunities open to them but it would help everyone in security to support the integration of this well-trained and experienced group of people.


4 © CI TY S ECURI TY MAGAZ INE – WINT E R 2015


James Kelly Chief Executive British Security Industry Association


Since the UK’s terror threat level was increased from ‘substantial’ to ‘severe’ in


August this year, organisations in both public and private sectors have taken a renewed interest in preventative security measures and intelligent solutions.


One of the most important factors ensuring the success of national security – as well as the security of the UK’s businesses, infrastructure and public places – is joint partnership working between all agencies involved. Private security providers continue to play a vital role in this work, and often provide essential support services and state-of-the-art security equipment to police and critical national infrastructure sites.


In the past few years, there have been a number of examples where the private security industry has provided such support, from helping to secure major events like the Queen’s Jubilee Celebrations and the Olympic Torch Relay to providing back-office police support functions on a local level. Projects like the Cross-Sector Safety and Security Communications (CSSC) initiative demonstrate the appetite for closer partnership working on both sides.


In light of the increased terror threat, ensuring that there is a central focal point from which such partnerships can be forged and developed is a crucial next step for these projects as we move into 2015.


The launch of the Police and Security Group (PaS) Initiative in December this year is an important step forward in bringing together the private security industry, the Metropolitan Police and the Mayor of London’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC), and signals a new era of closer partnership that will benefit our industry as well as its customers and public sector clients.


significant. Four aspects are especially relevant. Firstly, the instability of states allowing the presence of organised crime and permitting high rates of violent offences.


Secondly, expanding violent extremism on a broader agenda. Thirdly, growing economic crime with a shift in the forensic balance between public and private sector defences.


Finally, the weakness of the capacity and capability of nations to address basic issues of security including public health.


These issues are particularly pertinent to those with corporate/NGO/media responsibilities across Europe, Asia (including the Middle East) and Africa. Many such operations are based in London. Staff safety and security is a key priority.


Self-help is essential but is not a comprehensive policy and all available assets should be leveraged including private sector peer groups. The protection of female members of staff, both expatriate and nationally employed, is a vital aspect. For all staff, counter hostage taking measures are critical.


High grade and bespoke hostile environment awareness is increasingly important as is exercising crisis management at all levels.


Effective staff safety and security against the likely threat pattern for 2015 needs greater recognition and integration across corporate structures to ensure that enterprise enthusiasm for emerging markets does not run ahead of the duty of care for those exposed to potential harm.


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