Collaboration championed at The Security Institute’s Annual Conference

Running under the theme ‘Influential Security: Less Noise, More Influence’, conference explored how today’s security professionals can strengthen their credibility, demonstrate their value and absolutely ensure that their expertise contributes meaningfully to organisational and strategic decision-making.

The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback from delegates, speakers and Institute supporters alike, reflecting the success of a programme purpose-designed to encourage greater participation, challenge established thinking and strengthen connections right across the profession.

Power of influence 

Hosted by Matthew Seel CSyP FSyI (a director of The Security Institute), conference opened with an address delivered by Lord Evans of Weardale KCB DL. This was followed by Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) briefing examining the current threat landscape.

Throughout the day, delegates heard from leading voices in the profession, among them Teresa Quinn (head of global security at the TUI Group) who explored credibility, influence and culture in the session ‘Leading Security from the Outside In’ and Julia Pendry MVO CSyP, whose session ‘Steal My Idea: The Art of Making People Think It Was Theirs’ challenged conventional approaches adopted towards communication and influencing decisions.

Greg Webb MSyI, director of conference Gold Sponsor MS Webb, shared interesting insights on building a security business grounded in professional standards, credibility and trust.

A further highlight was the discussion between Government Chief Security Officer Vincent Devine and Institute director Dr Rachel Webb CSyP FSyI. Running under the title of ‘Influential Security: Clear, Credible, Consequential’, this session examined how security professionals can communicate their value and strengthen their influence at the senior decision-making level.

The programme also welcomed Dean Wormleighton MSyI, founder of Squaddie Box CIC, who chose to highlight the importance of supporting those who’ve served through the work of Squaddie Box and Blue Light Box.

Fresh perspectives to the fore 

One of the most significant developments for conference this time around was the introduction of three dedicated breakout sessions specifically designed to create a more interactive and inclusive experience and encourage meaningful discussion across different areas of the profession.

The Intelligence breakout, led by Joey Hills (director of intelligence and operations at Mitie Security), explored the effective use of intelligence to shape and influence decision-makers.

The Front Line Security breakout, facilitated by Chris Middleton CSyP MSyI (a director of The Security Institute) and Darcy Fletcher (learning and development manager at the Assist Security Group), focused on the influence front line professionals have in shaping perceptions, strengthening standards and contributing to organisational success.

The Early Careers breakout (led by Raegan Moss MSc MSyI, chair of the Institute’s Early Careers Network) explored ‘The Influence Map’, duly encouraging emerging professionals to recognise their potential to influence decisions and contribute towards the future development of security.

The response to the new format was particularly encouraging, with delegates welcoming the opportunities presented for focused discussion, shared experiences and practical insights.

The importance of these conversations was reinforced during the closing panel session. ‘Beyond the Conference: Building Influence Where It Matters’ brought together Joey Hills, Chris Middleton, Darcy Fletcher and Raegan Moss to reflect on the discussions and their wider implications for the profession.

Shaping the future 

Conference also provided an opportunity for The Security Institute's CEO, Sarah Austerberry CSyP FSyI, and special projects advisor Anthony Seale to outline the organisation’s future direction.

Their joint discussion highlighted the Institute’s ambition to strengthen professional recognition, support career development and create greater connections between its membership, specialist activities and wider industry engagement.

Looking ahead to 2027, resilience was identified as an important area of focus, examining how everyday security practices contribute meaningfully towards wider organisational and societal preparedness.

Sarah Austerberry commented: “The overwhelmingly positive response to this year’s Annual Conference has been incredibly encouraging. Our ambition was to create an event that not only delivered valuable professional development, but also encouraged meaningful conversations about the future of our profession.”

Austerberry continued: “Seeing that vision come to life, particularly so through our new breakout sessions, was a real highlight. The diversity of experience and perspectives represented throughout the day demonstrated the strength of our professional community and the importance of creating opportunities for every voice to be heard.”

In conclusion, Austerberry noted: “Our sincere thanks go to everyone who contributed towards making this year’s Annual Conference such a success. We look forward to building on the ideas, connections and conversations established throughout the day.”

Supporting charitable causes

Alongside The Security Institute’s professional development programme, conference raised £1,000 through a raffle in support of the Institute’s two chosen charities for 2026: Squaddie Box CIC and Nuneaton and Bedworth Doorway.

Squaddie Box CIC supports veterans and Emergency Services personnel experiencing homelessness or hardship, while Bedworth Doorway provides practical assistance and guidance to young people aged 16-to-25 who are either homeless or at risk of being so.

The fundraising total was achieved through the generosity of delegates, supporters and prize donors, including an additional contribution that helped to boost the final amount. The Institute extends its sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to this fantastic total.

Organisations behind the event 

The success of the Annual Conference was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, exhibitors and industry partners. Particular thanks go to Gold Sponsor MS Webb, whose contribution included the sponsorship of 20 conference tickets for front line security professionals, in turn helping to widen access to professional development opportunities.

The Institute also thanks the 365 Group, sponsor of the Annual Conference’s networking drinks reception, which provided an opportunity for delegates to continue discussions and strengthen professional connections following the day’s educational programme.

Further thanks are extended to supporting sponsors ATG Access, Mitie, TORO Solutions, Ward Security, Mercury Training, Surelock McGill and Third Millennium Systems.

The Institute also recognises exhibitors present on the day, including PerpetuityARC, Mitie, ATG Access, MS Webb, Ward Security, Mercury Training and Surelock McGill, alongside the Institute’s own membership and Chartered Security Professional teams.

Sincere thanks are extended to all speakers, panel members, facilitators, delegates, the Board of Directors and the head office team for their contributions towards delivering a successful event.

Continued engagement

Conference concluded with remarks from Chris Stevens CSyP FSyI who reinforced the importance of continued professional engagement and collaboration.

As the Institute reflects on the success of its 2026 Annual Conference, the central message remains clear: meaningful influence is built through credibility, collaboration and the ability to turn professional expertise into positive action.

The Security Institute now looks forward to building on this momentum and continuing to champion a more connected, recognised and influential security profession in times ahead.

*Further information is available online at www.security-institute.org