On 15 October, ISJ representatives James Thorpe and Eve Goode were invited to attend The Security Institute Annual Conference 2025 at Andaz London Liverpool Street, by Hyatt.

This year’s conference held special significance for The Security Institute as the organisation marked its 25th anniversary – a milestone that reflects a quarter-century of growth, collaboration and leadership within the UK security sector.

The day-long event offered delegates the opportunity to reflect on the Institute’s history, understand its current priorities and gain insight into how it is preparing to meet future challenges.

The morning opened with relaxed networking and refreshments, allowing attendees to connect with peers and industry leaders before the formal content program began.

Welcome and updates

Once seated, delegates were welcomed by Conference Compère, Hayley Elvins CSyP FSyI, setting a warm and purposeful tone for the day’s conversation.

She introduced Julie Nel MA CSyP FSyI, Chair of the Board of Directors, who told attendees more about her time with the organisation.

A key highlight was the announcement of several key leadership developments, the most notable being the formal appointment of Sarah Austerberry CSyP FSYI as Chief Executive Officer.

Having served as Interim CEO for the past four months, Sarah brings with her more than 25 years of security sector experience, spanning government, critical national infrastructure and private industry.

A Chartered Security Professional (CSyP), a Fellow of The Security Institute (FSyI) and a Principal of the Register of Security Engineers and Specialists (RSES), Sarah was praised for her strategic vision and dedication to strengthening engagement with members and partners.

The news of her permanent appointment was met with a sustained round of applause, reflecting both confidence in her leadership and optimism for the Institute’s future.

These welcomes were followed by a Keynote Address from Lord Evans of Weardale, President of The Security Institute.

Drawing on his extensive experience and deep understanding of the security landscape, Lord Evans brought a wealth of knowledge and insight to the stage.

His address set a thoughtful tone for the day, framing the discussions ahead and underlining the critical role of informed leadership in navigating the evolving challenges of the industry.

Conference sessions

The day’s formal proceedings began with a confidential presentation from an NPSA representative, offering delegates a general threat update.

Following this, David Kilby OBE discussed geopolitics and globalisation, exploring threats to IP, supply chains and also why organisations should be aware of ‘talent programs’ – government-backed initiatives designed to recruit overseas and domestic talent.

A panel discussion followed, moderated by Rachel Webb CSyP MSyl, that featured key insights from Kilby as well as Spencer Andy, Martin Schwarz and Reagan Moss (Syl Student).

As the day progressed, David Sully, CEO and Co-Founder of Advai looked at current AI and data trends in his session exploring recent technological advancements.

Sully placed a key focus on how AI is used in our modern world and how it has changed the way organisations interact with technology.

This too was followed by a panel, this time moderated by Matthew Steel CSyP CNSP FSyl, which saw James Bore MSc CSyP FSyl FBCS, Calum MacWilliam (Syl Student) and Sian Doherty MSyl join Sully on stage to discuss real-world technology applications and answer questions from the audience.

After lunch was served, Neil Prowse from The Security Institute’s Charity Partner – Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) – highlighted the critical work the not-for-profit organisation is doing and how it is working with industry stakeholders to put an end to online child sexual exploitation.

Ian Dyson CBE QPM DL discussed his career background, exploring how legislation and public behaviour has changed since he started in the police force.

He spoke about how law enforcement approaches have changed, analysing the political climate and sharing insights on policing protests.

In a subsequent panel, Chris Stevens CSyP MSc F.ISRM FSyl moderated a conversation which featured Dyson, Prowse, Hannah George (Syl Student) and Ruth Sharman MSyl.

The final sessions of the day saw Dr Mike Blyth DBA, Chris Middleton CSyP MSyl, Paul Lawton-Jones, Michael Coppard (Syl Student) and Dr Garry Evanson MSc CSyP MSyl take to the stage to discuss continued professional development, before closing remarks from Elvins, Nel and Sarah.

The event concluded with a networking reception, providing delegates with the opportunity to reflect on the day’s discussions and build new professional connections – a fitting end to a conference centred on community, leadership and the future of the profession.

A day of celebration and reflection

As the day drew to a close, the anniversary conference left a clear impression of how far the sector has come but also reminded delegates of the industry challenges that lie ahead.

It was a celebration not just of 25 years of achievements, but of the strength of the professional community it represents.

The conversations throughout the day reflected a shared commitment to innovation, collaboration and raising standards across the security landscape.

The themes explored underscore the Institute’s role as a unifying force for professionals at every stage of their careers.