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Here we are in May and I start with some sad news which you may have heard about, that is the passing of Di Thomas. You may know that Di was part of the original cohort that formed the Security Institute, she became very well known and was behind driving the membership up which she did quite quickly. She was also heavily involved with the Chartered Security Professionals (CSyP) status, working alongside the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals (WCoSP), the owners of CSyP. She was so passionate about the Institute, the industry and all of us that work within it. I didnโt realise that she enjoyed working with donkeys! Maybe that’s why she got on so well with all of us!? She retired, became ill and sadly passed at a mere age of 67. Such a shame, rest in peace Di, you will be remembered by us all.
We at Professional Security Magazine have just got back from an excellent few days at Twickenham where we ran our speed dating type event. No, not actual dating but private half an hour business meetings in private hospitality boxes that look out over the pitch. In fact one delegate Chris Quigley said to me โa quick note to thank you for organising the Security TWENTY 26 event last month.ย Been meaning to pop you a note since – but have mostly been away on holiday. I met some very useful contacts at the event + are carrying on some good conversations – so thank you and your team for all your hard work!โ
So to the gossip then ….
HKC, the manufacturer of intruder alarms, has appointed James Collins as Technical Support UK. The firm, part of the multi-national Assa Abloy, say it will strengthen the companyโs installer network and help drive its expansion across the UK. James will support installers through the companyโs phone lines and ticketing system, handling troubleshooting queries and more technical cases. This work will play a part in ensuring that installers receive timely and dependable assistance. Meanwhile Secure Logiq has appointed Patrick Furby as Technical Support Engineer Level 2, adding that firm says to its global technical support as the company continues in its international footprint. Patrick joins with a background in IT support, having worked with global organisations across multiple sectors.
Partnerships
This month we see some partnerships being set up. One to mention in the field of security recruitment is Cento acquiring the United States-based executive search firm SCW Consulting. The deal brings together (pictured left to right) Cento CEO Brett Ennals and Tom Verzuh, founder of Colorado-based SCW Consulting, combining decades of industry experience. For both, I’m told, the move represents more than a traditional acquisition. It marks the alignment of two firms that have spent years supporting the growth of the security industry from opposite sides of the Atlantic. Founded in 2005 by Brett Ennals, Cento has worked across the building services sector, supporting companies in fire and security, mechanical and electrical, vertical transportation (is that lifts?), and HVAC. SCW Consulting, set up in 2000 by Tom Verzuh, has developed a respected presence in the North American market, focusing on executive and professional recruitment within the physical security and voice/data industries. Together, the firms bring more than 45 years of industry expertise and a network of talent across manufacturers, integrators, distributors, and technology companies. Brett becomes the new Chief Executive of SCW Consulting inc. The next merger to tell you about is between March Networks and Vivotek. Together the two companies combine in enterprise video management, AI powered analytics, cameras, and cloud services. They will be led by Peter Storm, President and CEO of March Networks.
Ranger again
It seems like a tradition to bring you an acquisition from Ranger Fire and Security. They have made their first in the South East, with Orpington-based Fidelity Integrated Systems. Fidelity is a fire and safety-security installer, offering services including access control, CCTV, intruder alarms and gate automation, fire safety including detection, suppression and compliance. Ranger are backed by private equity so who’s to say when their acquiring – their stated aim is to become a national one-stop-shop – will stop?!
Moves
Reece Thompson at Tech4Trade has become head of Projects, so well done Reece. Likewise Adam OโReilly at Hirsch has changed his job title to Perimeter Director, I think that means he wonders around the building rather than sitting at a desk?
Pacesetters
One of the most enjoyable dates in the guarding sector calendar that I have been part of for some years is Lynda Moore’s ACS Pacesetters security officers of distinction lunch and awards. They’re running on Wednesday, May 20 at Windsor racecourse, beside the Thames. I’m one of the judges of the finalists, and yes, I am sworn to secrecy. Something new for this year is that there’s more finalists, so that Mike White will be reading out the winners. I do hope that no-one will drop their award when they collect it at the front, because more than once someone has, and they’ve found out it is made of breakable glass! They do get a replacement, at Lynda’s expense, but I wouldn’t want anyone to feel mortified in front of the room. If that has to happen to anyone, that’s me, as compere!
Sheriffs’ Award
And talking of awards may I urge you to put someone who’s worthy up for the annual Sheriffs’ Award for bravery, by the Worshipful Company. It’s open to the public besides the emergency services, the Armed forces, and security industry. It’s worth your while – the recipient gets a trophy, a framed certificate, and ยฃ5,000. By order of the Sheriffs, their names are permanently inscribed on an โHonours Boardโ and in a โBook of Honourโ on permanent display at the Old Bailey, the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales. You can nominate at https://wcosp.org/the-sheriffs-award-for-bravery/. The winner is invited to the WCoSP annual dinner in October while those commended are invited to Common Hall in November to receive their certificates.
