International Security Officers’ Day - Events in Manchester & London


Celebrating Security Excellence I


nternational Security Officers’ Day is annual event honouring the dedication and professionalism of security officers. Here we report on the City Security Council (CSC) dual events in Manchester and London and the IPSA and Security Institute joint event.


We want people to aspire to join security as a career – there are many routes, many roles, and our contribution will only grow as


change...“ We are on a path to


we face new challenges.” Peter Harrison, CSC Manchester Chair


rain or shine, public holiday or“ Every day, in all conditions, religious festival, you quietly


keep everyone safe.” Scott Gough, CSC London Chair


always changing, and you respond. You play a critical role in keeping the public safe, working alongside our police colleagues.”


“ The threats and risks are Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the SIA


property, and public spaces“ Protection of people, depends not just on police or security individually but on their ability to work in tandem.”


Superintendent Lorenzo Conigliaro, City of London Police


27 © CITY SECURITY MAGAZINE – AUTUMN 2025 www.citysecuritymagazine.com In Manchester: A celebration of commitment and changing perceptions


At The Edwardian Manchester, Peter Harrison, CSC Manchester Chair, opened proceedings by thanking not only security officers but also their families. He underscored the scale and importance of the profession, noting that there are three times as many security officers as there are police in the UK.


He outlined the diverse and dynamic scope of security roles in a city home to millions and host to major public events.


Industry leaders reflect


Key speakers included Heather Bailey QPM, Chair SIA and Don Randall MBE, who emphasised that society could not function without frontline security professionals, and that true progress depended on public-private partnership.


Celebrating excellence: New CSC Award scheme


A highlight of the day was the announcement of the new CSC Award scheme, a major new initiative dedicated to recognising excellence among frontline staff.


The awards will focus on four key areas: • Operational Excellence • Growth & Development • Dedication & Loyalty • Community & Culture


The timeline for nominations begins in September 2025, with finalists announced in May and winners celebrated during International Security Officers’ Day in July 2026. The awards process is designed to be transparent and impartial, with independent judges and no entry fees.


In London:


Pride and gratitude Scott Gough, CSC London Chair and Managing Director of Unitrust, opened the London event with a tribute to the security officers present. Gough highlighted the selfless commitment of security personnel.


Address from the Security Industry Authority (SIA) Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the SIA, added government perspective, emphasising the dual necessity of regulation and recognition. She noted the record-high number of active security licences in the UK – over 455,000. In London alone, security licence holders now exceed 126,000. Russell highlighted that 7 in 10 people trust security professionals to maintain public order and improve public safety.


She stressed the ongoing challenges faced by security officers. Russell also acknowledged the courage of officers who put themselves in harm’s way, sometimes getting injured in the line of duty.


Her closing message: “While your work often happens behind the scenes, its impact is seen and felt every day. You are like an invisible blanket – your dedication does not go unnoticed.”


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