The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO) has announced that it will be awarding Les Allan, former Chair of AUCSO, a Fellowship.

The fellowship

Allen was AUCSO’s Chair between 2021 and 2023, and Vice Chair between 2019 and 2021.

Recently retired from his role as Director of Safeguarding Services at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, Allen now works as a consultant for one of AUCSO’s partners, CriticalArc.

Allen is only the seventh AUCSO Fellow, joining:

• Alfred Feichtinger, the first European Region Chair
• Bernadette Duncan MBE, Chair 2001/2002
• Ray Wheatley, Current Ireland Region Chair
• David Owen, Secretary 2000-2017
• Brian Scofield, Treasurer 2015-2019
• Trevor Jones, Chair 2018-2021 and Vice Chair 2015-2018

“Outstanding contribution”

Oliver Curran, Chair, AUSCO commented: “We are honoured to present Les with this award as he has worked tirelessly for AUCSO for many years and been pivotal in shaping the direction of the Association.

“We wanted to recognise the outstanding contribution he has made over this period.

“Throughout his time with AUCSO, Les has always actively promoted the sharing of best practice across the wider security sector, creating strategic alliances and encouraging collaboration and consultation with government and regulatory agencies.”

Curran continued: “He championed the use of innovative technology to enhance the reach of security provision and acted as a mentor to those just beginning their leadership careers, actively investing in the next generation of professionals working towards career progression. We are truly grateful for everything he has done.”

“One in a million!”

Julie Barker, COO, AUCSO added: “Les really does deserve this Fellowship.

“I have always admired his capability, as an experienced and inspirational leader, to develop new approaches to modernise security and safety by breaking down barriers to collaborative thinking and using his influence to support new initiatives and strategic alliances. He is one in a million!”

“Even more special”

Allen commented on his appointment: “I’m proud and delighted to have been bestowed this honour and to be in such great company makes it even more special.”

Allen will be formally presented with the honour of being appointed a Fellow at the AUCSO Awards ceremony which will take place in April as part of the AUCSO Conference.