Professor Simon Hepburn appointed CEO at The Security Institute

As The Security Institute continues to grow and adapt to meet new demands within the security sector, it’s felt that Hepburn possesses the experience and breadth of knowledge required to move The Security Institute forward and develop the organisation in order to meet those demands.

Professor Hepburn boasts a proven track record in leading business growth and programme delivery, as well as leading a membership body at a strategic level. As CEO of the UK Cyber Security Council, he revised the membership proposition, which led to an increased cohort of members including global organisations and corporates.

At the Advisory Centre for Education, Hepburn updated the membership proposition, increasing membership from local authorities throughout the UK.

Visiting Professor

Hepburn is a Visiting Professor at Aston University and chair of the Board of Trustees at the ReachOut youth mentoring charity. Hepburn has also held a Board position for the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations and led the Special Interest Group focused on engaging with recruiting and increasing the diversity of the next generation of CEOs within the charity sector.

Professor Hepburn has significant experience in influencing and stakeholder engagement. He has responded to Government consultations, been involved in advisory groups and championed the work of his organisations in the policy arena.

Over the years, Hepburn has also built an extended and extensive network from the public, private and third sector which will be of great benefit to The Security Institute in terms of extending its reach and influence.

Vital work

Speaking about his appointment, Professor Hepburn commented: “I’m really pleased to be joining The Security Institute as its new CEO. The Institute has over 20 years’ experience of providing services to the security profession, which is an industry that I believe is carrying out some of the most crucial work to protect the UK. I look forward to working with the Board, members of staff, key partners, stakeholders and practitioners alike in order to amplify this crucial work and leading the organisation through its next phase of development, growth and influence.”

The Security Institute’s chair Julie Nel MA MSyI has welcomed Professor Hepburn’s arrival at the organisation. “Simon will bring his wealth of experience and extensive network to bear and significantly benefit The Security Institute,” enthused Nel. “He will be integral to building on our current structure and service delivery.”

Further, Nel observed: “His understanding and experience of working within the cyber security field, as well as leading a membership organisation, means that we’ve recruited a CEO who will be able to deliver the strategy of the Board and ensure growth and service excellence for our members, partners and stakeholders.”