Opportunities


The security sector has several avenues for growth:


Export potential:


The UK's reputation for high-quality security services opens doors for international expansion. There's growing demand for British security expertise, particularly in emerging markets and high- risk environments. This presents opportunities for consultancy services, training programmes, and operational contracts abroad.


Event security growth:


The post-pandemic resurgence of large- scale events has created a boom in demand for security services. From music festivals to international sporting events, the need for skilled personnel is higher than ever. This sector offers opportunities for specialisation and development of event-specific security solutions.


Economic uncertainty:


Ongoing economic challenges and potential public sector budget cuts pose a significant threat to the security industry. Reduced spending on security services could lead to job losses and compromise safety standards. The industry must adapt to potential fluctuations in demand and explore cost-effective service models.


Automation trends:


The push towards automation and AI in security solutions may reduce the demand for human security officers. While technology can enhance efficiency, the effectiveness of fully automated systems remains questionable in many scenarios, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that combines technology with human expertise.


Geopolitical tensions:


Escalating global conflicts and state- sponsored cyber threats present new challenges for the security sector. These evolving risks require constant adaptation of security strategies and investment in new capabilities to protect against sophisticated threats.


Evolving protest movements:


The increasing frequency of protest movements globally requires security providers to navigate complex situations. Balancing the right to peaceful protest with public safety demands nuanced approaches and specialised training for personnel.


© CITY SECURITY MAGAZINE – WINTER 2024 www.citysecuritymagazine.com Retail security demand:


A significant increase in shoplifting has heightened the need for robust retail security measures. This trend drives demand for both physical presence and integrated technology solutions, offering growth opportunities for firms that can provide comprehensive protection strategies.


Career progression:


The industry offers diverse career paths. From entry-level positions, individuals can progress to specialised roles in areas such as cybersecurity or risk management. This career mobility can make the sector attractive for long-term professional development.


Entrepreneurship:


The structure of the security industry allows for entrepreneurial ventures. Many successful company owners started as front-line officers, leveraging their experience to establish their own firms. This potential for business ownership can be a powerful motivator for ambitious professionals in the field.


Security personnel


Guy Mathias FSyI, F.ISRM CSSC Eastern Region Chair Strengths


We have some impressive people joining our profession and a real appetite amongst many to put the hard yards in to develop themselves and to be successful.


Weaknesses


The long-standing association for security to be classified as an ancillary service still hinders attracting many that are of good calibre. Investment is required by companies to provide layered training for individuals and multi-person contracts in team exercises.


Opportunities


There has never been a better opportunity for the private security sector to shape and influence security in all its guises given the financial pressures in the public sector and how this can inhibit what the police can – and cannot – continue to provide to the public and wider community. It does require those of us involved to be agile and innovative in the provision of security solutions.


I believe there is a real requirement for enhanced recruitment to seek to attract those who would not ordinarily consider security as a first-choice profession. This does require investment from across the sector to raise standards and the quality of those being recruited.


Threats


The risk of terrorism will continue unabated in today’s complex and unstable world as will major climate-threat events. For those providing guarding staff, the technology evolution will continue apace and thus there will be a threat to some roles and facilities currently protected by security personnel.


If we do not continue to enhance the capability and training for our front-line personnel, we will continue to suffer from the perception of being under-qualified and poorly trained.


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