Leading by example

That’s an entirely false impression. We’re not about superficial polish. What we are going to adopt is a courageous approach with uncompromising standards. We want to see a modernised industry that’s trusted and respected, and where technology is exploited for success.”

The words of John Saunders OBE chief executive of the Security Industry Authority (SIA) delivered during the Regulator’s official launch at Westminster’s QEII Conference Centre on Wednesday 2 April 2003 (‘From aspiration springs reality’, SMT, May 2003). Three years on, though, is the real world reflecting the rhetoric? Is the security industry changing for the better? Let’s look at the facts...

There are now 273 security guarding companies listed on the SIA’s Approved Contractor Scheme Register. On top of that, 88,367 guarding licences have been issued. 57, 834 door supervisors now hold an SIA ‘Badge of Honour’, as do 8,644 CVIT operatives, 1,259 close protection specialists and 4,570 Public Space Surveillance personnel. Phenomenal.

Taking security guarding, door supervisors, CVIT staff, CCTV operators and close protection operatives together, no less than 244,388 members of the security community now hold a recognised qualification many of them for the first time. Progress and new credibility? You’d better believe it.

Of late, John Saunders’ “uncompromising standards” have seen the SIA hone-in on the miscreants disrespecting the Law of the Land. Joint operations with the police service (including Cornflower and Seahog) are but the beginning of a determined enforcement programme. In real terms, regulation starts here... There is much still to do, and a tough agenda lies before the Regulator and the industry.

Sadly, that agenda will have to be tackled without the wisdom and wise words of the SIA’s chief executive, who announced his resignation from office at this year’s Security Excellence Awards .

John Saunders has been nothing less than an excellent leader. One who has tactfully balanced the public purpose of regulation with the commercial implications for the industry.

When the History of UK Security is written, John Saunders’ name will sit atop The Roll of Honour and rightly so.