Industry leaders and visionaries will turn the dial on key issues in security when they take to the stage for the SJUK Leaders in Security Conference.

Organised by Security Journal UK and held in association with Eagle Eye Networks, the SJUK Leaders in Security Conference will take place at the Hilton Deansgate in Manchester on 16 July.  

A hub of industry and innovation, Manchester offers easy access via its international airport and excellent transport links, making it convenient for attendees throughout the UK and Europe.

The Hilton Deansgate’s modern conference facilities also provide a comfortable and well-equipped space for presentations and networking. In terms of location and venue, it’s perfect. 

Why SJUK Leaders in Security?  

The security industry is crowded with conferences, but none focus specifically on the unique challenges faced by senior leaders.

The SJUK Leaders in Security Conference fills this gap, offering a bespoke event tailored to address the most stressful jobs in the field.  

“A bespoke conference for heads of security presents a fantastic opportunity for the industry, allowing us to truly address the key issues that keep leaders awake at night,” said Conference Chair, Rick Mounfield. 

The fast-paced agenda features over 30 speakers covering multiple topics, from the built environment to crisis response, with panel discussions ranging from analysis about strategy to market challenges and opportunities.  

Forget the “usual suspects.” The SJUK Leaders in Security Conference boasts an exclusive list of advisory panel, speakers, moderators and panellists with a combined wealth of experience across security disciplines.

This translates into a speaker lineup featuring fresh perspectives and insights you won’t find elsewhere. 

The SJUK Leaders in Security Advisory Panel and other industry collaborators, including Intellectual Partners ASIS UK Chapter, Security Institute, BSIA, Association of Security Consultants (ASC), International Professional Security Association (IPSA), International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO UK) have all played a key role in shaping this event.  

“The collective ‘black book’ of the advisory panel members has enabled us to pull together a list of speakers and panellists that most of the delegates will never have heard from before,” says Rick. 

Networking 

Equally important is that the SJUK Leaders in Security Conference is an opportunity to network with a high-calibre audience, including CEOs, crisis experts and fellow heads of security and build relationships that can provide tangible professional and personal benefits. 

“You come to a conference to learn,” says Rick, “and quite often what you get in the margins is as valuable as what you hear from the stage.

“So, in terms of forming relationships with people who understand what you’re going through, attending the SJUK Leaders in Security Conference will give you a gold-plated network that you can call on in the future.” 

Knowledge sharing 

Matt Drew, Group Security & Resilience Director at Tesco will speak as part of a panel discussion about the difficulties CSOs face in getting their security ideas adopted.

He said: “The geopolitical uncertainties and associated security risks the world is currently facing make it more important than ever for security leaders to come together to share ideas and best practice.

“I am thoroughly looking forward to meeting like-minded peers at the SJUK Leaders in Security Conference and to actively discussing mutual challenges.” 

Neil Beetlestone, Regional Head of Protective Security Operations UK and Europe HSBC will join a separate discussion about vetting and screening. He said: “I am very much looking forward to investing in myself by attending the SJUK Leaders in Security Conference whilst also taking myself out of my comfort zone by speaking rather than being an interested and active listener.

“Having had recent experience regarding the subject of discussion, I hope to bring my perspective whilst learning from others.” 

Sharing ideas 

Pippa Gregory, Senior Behavioural Investigative Adviser, National Crime Agency is to give a presentation. Speaking to SJUK, she said: “This event offers a fantastic opportunity to share latest ideas and innovative practice amongst senior security professionals who not only care about keeping our colleagues and organisations physically secure, but who also recognise the importance of ensuring psychological and social safety.” 

Jason Hunter, National High Security Manager UK, Gallager Security and an SJUK Leaders in Security panellist, said: “I am really looking forward to being at the event as we all need to help educate each other and the industry about NPSA standards such as CAPSS to help provide cyber risk mitigation. 

The event will also feature fascinating insights from academia, including Andrew Wooton, who said, “As Professor of Human-Centred Design Innovation and the Director of the Design Against Crime Solution Centre at the University of Salford, I am passionate about design and exploring the intersection between security and user experience.  

“This conference presents a valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders and discuss innovative approaches to balancing security with the needs and preferences of those who use these spaces daily. I look forward to sharing insights from our work at the Solution Centre and learning from the diverse perspectives of my fellow panellists.

“Together, we can drive forward the conversation on how to create secure yet welcoming environments that enhance the overall quality of life.” 

Investing in Teams 

Michelle Russell, Chief Executive, SIA will be contributing to a panel discussion about what senior leaders need to think about when investing in frontline security. She said: “Security and protection are the core responsibilities of frontline security. However, we should not underestimate the power of a welcoming and helpful attitude.

“It can give a sense of safety and build trust and confidence among visitors and clients. 

“I look forward to taking part in this important conversation about customer care and the role of front-line security officers in delivering this.” 

One of the panellists joining her is Dan Humphreys, Venue Security Manager at the new Co-op Live. He said, “I’m thrilled to have been invited to take part, I’m passionate about improving our industry and I believe we do that by investing in our teams.”  

Keep your eyes peeled for the SJUK Leaders in Security 2024 agenda to be published in full in the coming days. 

This article was originally published in the July Edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.