The annual security event at the New Century Hall in the heart of Manchester ran on March 31.
Sponsored by G4S the event is organised on behalf of the Manchester City Centre Crime Prevention Panel by the BSIA and Greater Manchester Police. It saw more than 400 delegates attend the exhibition with seminar sessions.
With over 30 exhibitors the event now in its 15th year was over-subscribed, with 14 other companies wishing to attend and exhibit, organisers report.
This year the new chief executive of the BSIA John Bates opened the event with panel chair Ian Kerr and the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Peter Fahy. Fahy urged business to revisit security and ensure that what they had was up to the job, especially CCTV, and the quality of images.
Seminar sessions featuring presentations by the GMP Counter Terrorism Unit, the Manchester Business Continuity Forum, and on identity fraud saw the seminar room packed.
Greater Manchester Police named the recipient of its prestigious Business Watch Coordinator of the Year Award.
The award, named in memory of Business Watch founder Bill Lowe, recognises the efforts of an individual who has shown a keen enthusiasm for crime prevention and awareness.
Northern Region Manager for Corporate Security for The Bank of New York Mellon, Mike Owens, beat off competition from hundreds of Business Watch Coordinators registered with GMP to clinch the title.
As well as looking after the company’s interests in Manchester, Mike Owens is also involved in supporting 12 other offices in the UK and Ireland. He is also involved in the Manchester City Council Business Continuity Forum and also plays an active part in the Piccadilly Partnership Action Group.
Mike Owens has liaised with the police throughout the year to ensure that not only his own business, but others in the city centre continue to be a safer place for both staff and guests.
Greater Manchester Police Crime Reduction Advisor, PC Stuart Pizzey MBE, said: “This year’s winner typifies what a Watch Scheme Coordinator should be. In the short time since Mike began working in Manchester he has been extremely supportive and active, this title is a well-deserved reward for his efforts. He is enthusiastic, positive and provides wonderful support to the police.”
Mike Owens added: “I firmly believe in working in partnership to try and achieve our aim of ensuring the highest possible safety and security for staff and colleagues. I firmly believe that by working together we can provide a safer place for us all. I enjoy an excellent working relationship with many business colleagues and I believe this is the key foundation to a successful and safer existence."
