The Cumberland, Marble Arch, in central London was the venue for the 2026 Women in Security Conference, hosted by The Security Institute. The event brought together the security, policing, cyber, academic and operational sectors under the theme โBuilding an Inclusive Security Industry.โย
The day opened with a welcome from compรจre Yolanda Hamblen, Global Business Information Security Officer, followed by an opening address fromย Baroness Neville-Jones DCMG, Patron of The Security Institute, whose career spans diplomacy, intelligence, government including as Chairman of Britain’s Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC); and industry. She spoke about the transition of private security from a niche position to one of centre stage in the world we live in today. The opportunities that come with not having an โencrusted frameworkโ that enables us to shape standards, the message being that how things are done are up to us now to shape the future, to embrace change, accept challenge and not be frightened of moments of difficulty.ย Then over the day, attendees heard from speakers including:
A panel discussion explored how organisations can build inclusivity for women working in operational security roles. The panel was moderated by Siรขn Doherty MSyI, Managing Director of the Bristol-based remote monitoring centre Arc Monitoring, and featured:ย
Conversation covered the continuing challenge of ill-fitting office-issued trousers for women in uniform; supporting return to work after maternity leave and the value of perspectives in managing volatile situations. The panel recognised the challenges but also spoke of the progressย made, and moving away from being the โfirst women in the roleโ to now being seen as business as usual and being the role model for those following them.ย
Later, a ‘fireside discussion’ on collective responsibility for inclusion brought together Julie Nel FSyI CSyP, Chair of the Security Institute, Hayley Elvins FSyI CSyP, Vice Chair of the Institute, and Institute director Rachel Webb FSyI CSyP, with the session hosted by Roy Cooper, Managing Director of Professional Security magazine. The message; we all have a responsibility to build an inclusive profession.ย ย
The highlight of the day was an address by the Instituteโs Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, whose support for the security sector continues to inspire the Institute and its members. Her Royal Highness presence underscored the importance of leadership, professionalism and opportunity within the security profession.
Attendees also engaged with exhibitors including ASEL, PerpetuityARC Training, Mitie, Mercury Training, and Nineteen Group, showcasing services and innovations supporting the development of the security profession.ย
The conference was supported by Argenbright Security Europe Limited (ASEL) as the eventโs Gold Sponsor, with Hannah Powell, Director of Risk at ASEL, delivering a sponsor session on how data-driven risk modelling can help shape organisational change.ย
The event also highlighted the work of a charity partner, Squaddie Box CIC, that seeks to support veterans and emergency services personnel facing homelessness by providing practical support, resources and community to help rebuild their lives.ย ย Closing the conference, Julie Nel FSyI CSyP, Chair of The Security Institute, reflected on the dayโs discussions and the importance of turning dialogue into action, encouraging the sector to continue working collaboratively to create an inclusive and supportive environment for women across all areas of security.ย
The day concluded with a networking reception.
Photo courtesy of the Security Institute: Princess Anne.
