Industry leaders champion inclusion at Women in Security Conference

Conference welcomed a distinguished line-up of speakers, all of whom are wholly committed to driving meaningful progress for females across the security profession. Delegates heard key insights on leadership, inclusion, professional development and operational experience delivered by several of the most respected voices in the security domain.

The event began with a welcome speech courtesy of compère Yolanda Hamblen (global business information security officer and host of The Security Circle Podcast), followed by an opening address from The Rt Hon Baroness Neville-Jones DCMG, Patron of The Security Institute, whose career spans diplomacy, intelligence, Government and industry.

Baroness Neville-Jones spoke about the transition of the security community from occupying a niche position to become one of centre stage importance in the world in which we live today. The Baroness referenced the need to embrace change, accept challenges and not be frightened of moments of difficulty.

Informing policy

Professor Brooke Rogers OBE, chief scientific advisor at The Home Office, spoke eloquently of her continued excitement around bringing practitioners, researchers and members of the public together in a bid to inform policy. The need to be collaborative and transparent is vital for building trust.

Naina Bhattacharya, Chief Information Security Officer at Coats, focused on the challenges of imposter syndrome, the importance of viewing women in senior positions as role models and the value to be found in seeking mentors to support and challenge. Bhattacharya suggested that strong women stand up for themselves, while stronger women speak up for one another.  

Fiona Galbraith MSyI, programme leader at Buckinghamshire New University, highlighted some of her military and academic career journey. She spoke of the changes to university life and the need to build resilience among young people.

Sarah Jane Cork MSyI, CEO at Milieu Associates, concentrated on the individual need to find our ‘milieu’: what gives us purpose, what grounds us as individuals and how we take that into the working environment.

Panel discussion

A front line panel discussion explored how organisations can build inclusive environments for those women working in operational security roles. The panel was moderated by Siân Doherty MSyI, managing director of Arc Monitoring, and featured insightful contributions from Helen Isaac QPM (chief superintendent at the City of London Police), Rachel Fleri (founder and managing director of the Specialist Security Company), Ruth Sharman MSyI (events security manager at Carlisle Support Services) and, importantly, front line security officer Neha Sharma.

The conversation covered myriad topics, including support for the return to work post-maternity leave and the value of different perspectives in managing volatile situations. The panel members duly recognised a series of ongoing challenges, but also spoke of the progress that has been made.

Later in the programme, a ‘fireside chat’-style discussion on collective responsibility for inclusion brought together Julie Nel FSyI CSyP (chair of The Security Institute), Hayley Elvins FSyI CSyP (vice-chair of The Security Institute) and Rachel Webb FSyI CSyP, director at The Security Institute. One of the key messages emanating from the dialogue is that everyone working within the security space has a responsibility to build an inclusive profession.

Importance of leadership  

Undoubtedly, the highlight of conference was the address delivered by The Security Institute’s Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, whose ongoing support for the security sector continues to inspire the Institute and its members. Her Royal Highness’ presence underscored the importance of leadership, professionalism and opportunity within the security profession.

Attendees also engaged with representatives from various industry exhibitors, among them PerpetuityARC Training, Mitie, Mercury Training and the Nineteen Group. All of the companies present showcased services and innovations that actively underpin the development of the security profession.

Conference was proudly supported by Argenbright Security Europe Limited (ASEL) as the event’s Gold Sponsor, with Hannah Powell (director of risk at ASEL) duly delivering a sponsor-led session exploring how data-driven risk modelling can help to shape organisational change.

Also highlighted was the work of charity partner Squaddie Box CIC: an organisation dedicated to supporting veterans and Emergency Services personnel facing homelessness by providing practical support and resources.

Reflecting on the day  

In closing conference, Julie Nel FSyI CSyP reflected on the day’s discussions and the importance of turning dialogue into action, encouraging practitioners in the sector to continue working collaboratively towards creating an inclusive and supportive environment for women across all areas of security.

The Women in Security Conference 2026 concluded with a networking reception, enabling delegates to continue their conversations, strengthen working partnerships and build a more inclusive future for the industry.

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