Welcoming guests to the formal opening ceremony, SyI vice-chairman David Gill said: “We are very grateful to our Gold and Silver sponsors for their support in establishing this new centre.
“Together we hope that it will not only serve the Security Institute, but also become a useful facility for other security organizations to share for their own events programmes, encouraging a greater unity and giving benefit to security professionals across the Midlands.”
The opening ceremony was performed by Chief Inspector David Whitehouse, head of community safety for Warwickshire Police. Giving him support was Warwickshire County Cllr. Richard Chattaway.
Other guests present included David Greer, CEO of Skills for Security; Lynne Davies, representing main sponsor BP plc; local residents, other Institute directors, members and supporters.
Overseas message
Bill Wyllie, SyI chairman, was unable to attend due to overseas work commitments, but sent a message of support: “This is a momentous occasion for us, and a key step forward in improving the way in which we can serve our members. The Institute is still less than 10 years old, but already we have established ourselves as a major key player within the national security profession.
“Our vision is simple: to be an organisation that works to enhance the professionalism and profile of the business of security in the UK. Already, we have taken major strides in fulfilling our vision, and we will continue to move forward, with the attainment of chartered status being a key step along the way. I hope that you enjoy yourselves and that we may look forward to your friendship and cooperation in the years to come.”
The office, located on a farm and originally a dairy, has retained some of the original features which were incorporated into the renovation completed earlier in 2008.
The floorspace is divided into an admin office with a separate conference room that seats 40 theatre style, 20 classroom style or 14 boardroom style. The Institute will also use it as an Examination Centre for its Certificate in Security Management. Anyone interested in hiring the venue should contact Di Thomas, general manager. Day delegate rates start from GB pound 25 per person per day.