The manual showcases the various opportunities available within the private security industry.
For those looking to get back into a job after a period of unemployment or health issues, or simply wanting to make a career change into something more exciting and varied, this new guide supplies the relevant information regarding the wide array of career opportunities and benefits available within private security.
The industry boasts a variety of different roles, ranging from fire engineer to operations director, with the chances for career progression being significant. Useful descriptions of roles tailored to different levels of skill sets can be found in the guide.
“Technology and service delivery within the private security industry have developed rapidly in recent years but, despite this, many still perceive a career in security as little more than the old-fashioned image of a ‘guard’ in a cabin,” commented James Kelly, CEO at the BSIA.
“In actual fact, today’s security officers perform a wide variety of tasks, operating cutting-edge technology and working at the hub of business operations. The industry’s commitment to providing personal development is particularly strong, meaning that security is no longer just a job but a rewarding and fulfilling career option.”
The BSIA’s guide aims to demonstrate all of these facts, and to raise awareness of the many opportunities available for young people, those leaving the Armed Forces and those who simply want a change of direction to an industry where no two days are ever the same.”
Security Industry Authority licences and professional training
For some of these opportunities, a specific licence issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) may be needed. Details of the licence, including when an indiviual may need this (and how to acquire one) are also outlined.
For many roles, sufficient training may be required in order to ensure that professionals are valued and trusted by their employers, customers and the general public.
The BSIA’s Training Providers Section, launched earlier this year, works to improve the standard of training available for members and their employees. Featured in the guide, chairman of the section Paul Tennent provides readers with some top tips and advice on how to gain a reliable training provider in order to prepare them for their ideal job.
There are a variety of initiatives or qualifications available for those wishing to make a career move into security. One such initiative is that of ‘Remploy’, a recruitment agency notable for its strong links with employers in the security industry and that helps facilitate those who are disabled or suffering from health conditions, the long term unemployed and ex-service personnel with employment opportunities.
“The help Remploy provided really helped to turn my life around,” commented Andrew Ruson, who now works for a BSIA member company.
Other such success stories and sentiments from individuals benefited from working in the industry are available to read in the guide.
Continuing programme of partnership engagement
Martin Brown, work services director at Jobcentre Plus, said of the new guide: “As part of a continuing programme of partnership engagement with the security industry’s Trade Association, Jobcentre Plus was delighted to actively contribute to the contents of the BSIA Careers Guide.”
Brown believes that the document “will be an invaluable method of showcasing the industry to jobseekers.”
Ultimately, a career within the private security industry can be extremely rewarding, with outstanding individuals annually recognised by the industry’s National Awards.
To find out more, access a PDF copy of the new guide.
