More than 180 women from across the UK security sector gathered at The Old Library in Digbeth on 5 March to mark International Women’s Day at an event organised by the Women in Security Network, powered by Women in Security Enterprise (WISE UK).
The event brought together professionals from across physical security, cyber security, risk, and governance roles to discuss career pathways, industry challenges, and opportunities for greater collaboration. It also raised more than £5,000 for Women’s Aid in Luton, supporting women and children living in refuge accommodation.
Industry discussions and shared experiences
The programme included a series of facilitated discussions led by industry figures including Jolene Taylor, Fiona Hotton, Brenda Koesterman, Natacha Torres, Colleen Harris, Helen Clayton, Chantal Anabtawi, Sophie Malone, Therese Hume, Karen Alexander, Hayley Elvins, Cora Lynne Heifer Rathbone, Emma Brown, Lauren Bettington, Lisa O’Flynn and Gaby Price.
Participants discussed a wide range of topics affecting the security sector and wider society. Themes included cyber resilience, physical security, governance, risk and compliance, privacy, and intelligence. Conversations also explored broader workplace and social issues such as career progression, childcare, menopause, violence against women and girls, and the gender pay gap.
Many speakers shared personal career stories, highlighting how individuals often enter the security industry through non-traditional routes. These experiences sparked discussion about how the sector can create clearer pathways and improve accessibility for those considering a career in security.
Barriers still facing the sector
Participants also reflected on the structural challenges that continue to affect representation and progression within the industry.
Issues raised during the discussions included the underrepresentation of women in security roles and leadership positions, stereotypes around who works in the sector, and unequal access to education, mentoring, and sponsorship opportunities. Attendees also noted the importance of workplace cultures that recognise collaboration and communication skills as essential to effective security practice.
Focus on collaboration and future initiatives
Alongside the discussions, participants explored ways to translate the day’s conversations into practical initiatives. These included mentorship and sponsorship programmes, leadership development opportunities, and training pathways aimed at supporting new entrants to the sector.
One initiative discussed during the event involves helping women living in refuge accommodation gain the training and licences required to work in the security industry. The programme aims to provide practical support, including CV guidance and job application assistance, to help participants move into employment in a sector where female representation remains relatively low.
The event also included a raffle and auction under the theme “Give to Gain”, with guests contributing items to support fundraising efforts. Among the items donated was a signed boxing glove by Tyson Fury, provided by Iain McCallister of MAN Commercial.
Funds raised at the event brought the total amount generated for Women’s Aid in Luton by the Women in Security Network to approximately £13,000 over the past three years.
A number of organisations from across the security and technology sectors supported the event, including Elevation Training, CDVI, Convergint, HID, The Portmarnock Group, Ocular, Zinc Systems, Oncam, Sitewatch Group, Sloane Risk Group, Rathbone Results, Opus Apeiro, the British Security Industry Association, Abloy UK, and Securitas.