International Women’s Day: a message from SIA Chair Heather Baily

In these challenging times we take a moment today, International Women’s Day to celebrate the contribution of women in the security industry.

Since taking up my role as Chair of the SIA in 2021, I’ve been privileged to work with a fabulous team of people who include many amazing women. My team is headed by our Chief Executive Michelle Russell and along with her Executive Team and with our Authority members, we’ve been focussed on making sure that the SIA makes the best possible contribution to public safety. This includes some aspects of public space safety, whether that’s from the perspective of counter terrorism, the safety of everyone working in the night-time economy, or just those members of our families and friends going about their everyday lives. A real concern for us at the moment, is the safety of women and girls outside of their homes and we’re playing our part in creating longer-term solutions to improve women’s safety especially when they are in social settings, such as pubs and clubs.

We also want members of the private security industry to be safe and feel safe. That’s also our contribution to this bigger agenda, and women add a unique and valuable perspective to this. So to all the talented and creative women working in the private security industry today, I say a massive thank you… know you’re part of a great team! Together we’re creative, understanding, innovative, talented, and kind – amongst a whole host of other personal skills I know you bring in your working lives. Today we celebrate you!! Continue to be fabulous and know that here at the SIA, we recognise your contribution and we’re grateful. To those who are thinking of a career in the private security industry, I feel sure you have something to add to this important and increasingly vital sector.

Today and throughout March we will be shining a light on the stories of women working across the industry. Their stories show the depth and breadth of security, and the positive, active and strong roles women have in it; on the front line, in management, in leadership, in customer service, technology. Each of their stories showcases the richness and positive benefits diversity brings.

So, join us in #CelebratingHerStory. Happy International Women’s Day!