Women of Wilson Security: International Women's Day 2022
International Women’s Day 2022
#BreakTheBias
Today is International Women’s Day, marked annually on 8 March, it is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, and also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
This year's International Women’s Day theme #breakingthebias is about acknowledging and addressing bias, conscious or otherwise, to help forge an inclusive world where difference is valued and celebrated. Read about some of the women in our business below and how they are #breakingthebias.
At Wilson, we have a diverse workforce - and we aim to reflect the diversity of the communities that we operate in. Read about some of the women in our business below and how they are #breakingthebias.
To celebrate this year's International Women's Day, we're shining a light on the hard work of our female employees over the course of the week. To kick off this week's Women of Wilson Security highlights, we'd like to showcase some of the hard work our frontline and office staff undertake on a daily basis!
Lyn Saunders | Site Supervisor
ACT
How long working in security?
"At 55 years old, I am a mother of three, a grandmother of three, a military wife and I am from a long line of military ancestors including generals dating back to the Napoleonic wars. My father is a firefighter, my mother a nurse, and I was a voluntary member of St Johns Ambulance in the UK. So ‘TO PROTECT’ is in my blood. I have been working for Wilson Security since September 2018, and through my proven professionalism and loyalty to Wilson Security, I have progressed from joining the company as a guard to becoming the only current female site supervisor on the defence contract in the ACT. I have been recognised and rewarded by Wilson Security for re-training guards to a higher standard and have also been recently recognised and rewarded by Defence, for protecting the base where I work. I have been presented with a rare medallion ships coin in recognition of my achievements on behalf of The Royal Australian Navy by SADFO at HMAS Harman."
What has been your favourite in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
"My favourite position at Wilson Security is being part of a team who helps to protect our Defence Force and in turn our country. I take great pleasure in watching guards grow by helping them to reach their full potential, they gain confidence and are proud of who they are, what they do and who they represent, I help them to bring out the best in themselves."
What has been a big challenge in your career?
"Since transitioning from a guard to a supervisor, my biggest challenge is that I have female guards from other sites contacting me for supportive confidential advice, but I do not have a female colleague or manager to lean on. We have a very supportive upper management team but sometimes a female needs a female to talk to. Due to this, I’m considering progressing further up the ladder to be inspirational to future upcoming female supervisors and provide them with support."
What change would you like to see to help Break The Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
"I believe that females in the security industry are crucial – not only do they have the ability to multitask, but they are also very good at de-escalating a situation and can offer much needed support to female customers and each other. Everybody has their own role to play in making Wilson Security one team and if the government trusts us to protect our Defence Force then that says it all. I am proud to be part of the backbone of this company and I encourage all females to do the same."
Georgia Keros | Security Officer
SA
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security / what were you doing before security?
"I have worked in security for about 12.5 years. I have been with Wilson Security for 11 years now. Before I started in security I was working in the hospitality industry."
Why / how did you get in to security as a career?
"I left the hospitality industry as I needed a career that would give me variety and more challenges. I wanted to become a Police Officer but instead went for security."
What has been your favourite position / role / job to do in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
"I do not really have a favourite role, I would say that I have worked in a lot of different positions such as concierge in the government and finance sectors. I have also worked at the Commonwealth Law Courts, SA Art Gallery, Australian Crime Commission, but I am currently working at Flinders Ports in a Control Room. I would say that all these different fields have given me as a woman in security a clearer understanding of why more women should become security officers as women can be more approachable and are more calm and collective."
What has been a big challenge in your career?
"Would be balancing work and family. The security industry makes it hard sometimes as it feels like you have more of a work-life than actual life."
What change would you like to see to help Break The Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
"I would like to see more equal opportunities for women in all types of workplaces be it security or construction workers."
Melanie Gibson | Security Manager
ACT
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security / what were you doing before security?
“I have worked with Wilson Security for two years. Before that I was a Systems Support Analyst, then a bike shop manager.”
Why / how did you get into security as a career?
“ASEC held a recruitment drive to encourage more women into the security industry. I was about to head off travelling around Australia and I thought I could pick up some casual work at concerts and music festivals. I landed in Jervis Bay at the start of COVID lockdowns and have been here ever since.”
What has been your favourite role in your career?
“My most rewarding role has been stepping into a Team Leader position following the tragic passing of a work mate. I hope to use my feminine influence to balance and improve morale. My leadership style is empowering, compassionate and understanding. I’d like to improve teamwork with kindness and positive reinforcement. I want to help the men I work with to communicate more effectively.”
Why should more women consider a career in security?
“Flexible hours could be a reason for more women to consider a career in security. Hopefully, we’ll see an improvement in future. There is a false stereotype that security officers often face dangerous or risky situations. But my experience thus far has been in the areas of access control and key management. This requires a high level of customer service which would suit women, or anyone really. I’m not likely to face any more danger in the workplace than a retail employee or hospitality worker might.”
What has been a big challenge in your career?
“My challenge has been to maintain my soft feminine side while wearing an alpha uniform in a male-dominated defence force environment.”
What change would you like to see to help Break the Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
“There’s a simple rule:
- If you wouldn’t say it to a man don’t say it to a woman; like pet names Sweetheart or Darl.
- If you wouldn’t say it to a woman don’t say it to a man; like a sexist joke.
I’d like for everyone to be able to speak up, express themselves and be heard without fear of judgement. We all bring different experiences and skills, and we all add value. We are employed to perform different roles and we are all necessary to the successful operation of our business. No one is better than anyone else, despite our title, rank, or rate of pay. If people could see themselves in each other despite their age, sex or culture, the bias, stereotypes and discrimination would end.”
Maureen Witt | Administration Officer
WA
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security / what were you doing before security?
"I have been working in the security industry since 1995, marking 27 years this year. I have been with Wilson Security for 18 of these years as a Guards Coordinator, Payroll & HR Resources Officer and now Administration Officer."
Why / how did you get into security as a career?
"I was introduced into the security industry by a friend who was working in payroll at another security company and was looking for someone to job share the role. This suited me as I was a working mum and did not want to work fulltime. I have always been able to maintain flexible working conditions within the security industry which is one of the reasons I have stayed in this industry regardless of the type of work I was doing."
What has been your favourite role in your career?
"Payroll – I am a “people” person, I like to help employees and work with them alongside management. I like to keep people happy if I can. It was very hard to move out of payroll when it became a national function."
Why should more women consider a career in security?
"I think women should consider security as an industry where you can use the skills and experience you have from any area of business, such as finance, payroll, rostering or administration. It’s not always about working in the field to help the business succeed. I also think security is a secure industry for long term employment as it will always be needed by businesses."
What has been a big challenge in your career?
'Adapting to change – originally, I fought against it, but feel the last 7 years or so, I have become better at accepting change. I have done various roles in the last 5 years, but they have all been in the role of helping people."
What change would you like to see to help Break The Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
"I personally have not experienced a lot of bias in my career, however, I am aware of it and I would like to see a change for my daughter as well as other women advancing themselves in their own careers."
Carolyn Parkes | Security Manager
QLD
How long working in security?
"I have been in security since 2002, which marks 20 years this year. This August, I have been with Wilson Security for 7 years. Prior to that, I worked in butcher shops/supermarket meat departments or customer service roles. I was also a stay-at-home mum for a few years and volunteered for canteen, school excursions, reading with students, fundraising for the kid’s football teams."
How did you get into security as a career?
"After my divorce I had a three-year-old and a newborn and wasn’t sure how I was going to support them long term. I joined the army, but while I was at basic training, both my parents became ill, and I was honourably discharged as I was needed at home. When I got back, I went back to work at the meat department for a large supermarket chain and after a while I knew I needed to do more. I did some admin courses while I was on a single mother’s pension, and they focused on computer courses for Women Out of Work (WOW) at the local TAFE. My dad had done security work, back when you didn’t need a licence, he suggested I do the course and see where it could take me. If nothing else, I would earn a living and support my family."
What has been your favourite position / role / job to do in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
"I started out in security in the hospitality industry at entertainment venues and events. This was an eye opener and taught me how to read people and anticipate trouble. I worked with a solid team of men, and out of 23 guards I was the only female. It was tough to start but I earnt their respect and loyalty and when I needed them, they always had my back. Working with this team, taught me so much and going to work never felt like work. Moving into the aviation sector took me on another path, where I was the reception officer for 7 years. The teamwork was what made that job special. I have made lifelong friendships and worked with a number of people who have moved onto other things.
That’s the thing about security, it may be a large industry but it’s a small community. Over 20 years I have worked with several people who I thought I may never see again but we always seem to cross paths no matter the company. Wilson Security has been the number one best decision I made, as I have been able to move from being a guard to a management role. They have given me the career I now have, including the opportunity to run my own teams. I also learned more about the company from the head office side while I worked in rostering for a short time. This gave me the unique insight that I normally would not have had the opportunity to know.
More women need to consider security as a career because there are many different types of roles available that don’t put them at risk. I believe some women don’t pursue a career in security because they think it’s a man’s world and to be fair it can be. You need to have confidence in your own abilities, willingness to learn and trust the team environment."
What has been a big challenge in your career?
"That is a tough question. I take things day to day, and I have had challenging days for sure, but I can honestly say without the support of fellow team members and supportive operations managers, I don’t believe I would have stuck it out for this long.
Corporate security can be a challenge within itself. We are given instructions to follow from the building, but the tenants make their own requests. They don’t always conflict, but it is definitely not a black and white environment. Guards and site managers need to balance a fine line to ensure all areas of the building are being addressed without breaching the integrity of the building or the site."
Amelia Legris | Corporate Risk Specialist
VIC
How long working in security?
“I’ve been in and out of the security industry over the past 12 years and one year with Wilson Security. I started in loss prevention when I worked in retail. Before joining Wilson, I was a Security Consultant. Prior to that, I held a couple of operations and administrative roles whilst I was completing my bachelor’s degree in Security and Counter Terrorism.”
Why / how did you get into security as a career?
“While I was working in retail, I noticed some questionable practices and behaviours which encouraged stock shrinkage and diversion. I discussed my concerns and provided suggestions to the Area Manager and as a result, found myself working as part of the loss prevention team. I chose the security industry to build my career because it is diverse, fast-paced and I didn’t want a desk-bound occupation.”
What has been your favourite role in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
“My favourite role is the one I currently have with Wilson Security as a Security Risk Specialist!
I’ve been lucky to work on a wide variety of interesting projects but the most memorable one I’ve delivered would be a Security Risk Assessment at a natural gas plant in remote Western Australia. I have also met some interesting people along the way, but the one client who left a lasting impression on me is an influential Aboriginal female politician who inspired me through her grit, determination, and resilience.
More women should consider a career in security because the industry needs diversity, and women have a lot to offer. A diverse workforce promotes creativity and encourages fresh and innovative ways of thinking, working, and finding solutions. Women also have a keen eye for detail, they bring compassionate perspectives which in security, helps to address all components of being ‘protect’ and the majority of women are curious multi-taskers.”
What has been a big challenge in your career?
“My biggest challenge was trying to fit into a male dominated industry and be accepted as part of the team. With time though, I realised that being different was an asset. Through empathy, communication, and a genuine appreciation for other points of views, I could relate to people and vice-versa and therefore build trust and respect. By being more sensitive and intuitive than my male counterparts, I tapped into my emotional intelligence to read the room and understand the varying needs, requirements, and priorities of different stakeholders. Through my open approach, my willingness to communicate, listen and receive feedback, I’ve been able to provide a quality service and informed reports to my clients and recommend practical solutions that address their security risks as individuals felt comfortable sharing their knowledge and insights with me.”
What change would you like to see to help Break the Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
“I would like to see employers and the industry rethink female participation. I would like to see more transparency with pay scales and career progression to create a true egalitarian environment where women’s contribution is acknowledged and respected. I would like to see increased female representation in leadership development programs as well as mentoring programs. I would like to see more organisations and /or the industry fund such programs. I would like to see more female security professionals in managerial roles and at the c-suite level. I would like to see senior leaders act as sponsors and use their influence to advocate for equitable workplace cultures, flexibility, increased female participation and to break down stereotypes.
I have a message to females considering a career in the Security industry:
1. Find yourself an employer who truly values diversity and who does not simply pay lip service to the concept thereof
2. Do not try to fit into a specific mould, be proud of who you are
3. Work hard and do not let others take credit for your hard work
4. Be humble and listen to what others have to say, even if you don’t agree
5. Find yourself a mentor who will prop you up and support you throughout the journey.”
Susan King | State Manager
NT
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security / what were you doing before security?
“I have been in the security industry for 20 years, of which 7 years have been with Wilson Security, starting as an Operations Manager, moving into State Manager role for the Northern Territory.
I graduated with Bachelor Criminology, Criminal Justice and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, commencing my security experience in the field as a Security Advisor and Risk Consultant. I then progressed into a Security Project Manager Role in the government sector delivering security technology upgrades of CCTV, access control, visitor management systems and management of the overall security function.”
Why / how did you get into security as a career?
“At a young age I had a passion for helping people, and a keen interest in understanding the underlying motivations of the different types of crime. Early in my studies I spent time conducting work experience with QLD Police in their Forensics Division - I was one of those kids who grew up watching X-Files. “
What has been your favourite position / role / job to do in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
“My current role as State Manager NT, as it allows me to work with a diverse array of clients a team of 430+ field officers. The greatest act of leadership I can give in my role is mentoring. Women offer a different style and approach to security, this spawns creativity, innovation, and growth.”
What has been a big challenge in your career?
“I am fortunate enough to work in an industry that I hold immense passion for, I have had to learn to balance my career aspirations with family balance. As both a mother and leader each day, week and month is filled with giving to others.”
What change would you like to see to help Break The Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
“Being a leader who recognises and appreciate the qualities that makes us all unique. When we encourage our teams to become the best individuals they can be, this is what truly brings us together and is the goal to a prosperous workplace.”
Melissa Nguyen | Operations Manager
NSW
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security / what were you doing before security?
“I commenced my employment in July 2007 with Wilson Security in Melbourne. I have been at Wilson Security for approx. 14 years, with all my security experience with Wilson Security. Previous to joining Wilson Security, my focus was my family.”
Why / how did you get into security as a career?
“At the time in my life, I needed another job opportunity and career path, as it was unclear to me. I did not see myself in the security industry as a long-term career.
My first position with Wilson Security was in our National Operations Centre (NOC) located in Melbourne. My first thoughts this was a great opportunity to enter the workforce, let’s see where it takes me! During my time in the NOC, I enjoyed the work life balance and benefits it provided with the shift work hours, and flexibility. Wilson Security is a national provider, which enabled me to transfer to NSW in the same position with the potential of future growth.
I embraced this change, hopefully to learn new skills and experience, work closely with other colleagues in a different state and to make a difference in a predominantly male industry with what I viewed as a short-term career path for females.
Now in my current role as an Operations Manager, I proved that females can not only do the job, but prove to the industry and the business, hard work and dedication anyone can achieve to overcome any obstacles to success!”
What has been your favourite position / role / job to do in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
“I’m currently working as an Operations Coordinator in NSW. The opportunity exposed me to different aspects of the security industry, interactions with front line field staff, operations, costing analysis, customer service.
In my opinion, women should consider a career path in the security industry and especially with Wilson Security as an employer, due to the opportunities available in key areas of our business, in other states in Australia also makes it appeal when your circumstances change.”
What has been a big challenge in your career?
“COVID-19 Shift coverage due to isolations has the biggest challenge in my career so far.”
What change would you like to see to help Break The Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
“My current focus is a review of the recruitment process and providing women with career opportunities and incentives programs. Creating educational programs to upskill women can provide the added benefit of attracting women to the security industry. Communication platforms to offer women business forums can also promote further awareness.”
Yasmin Wong | Security Officer
TAS
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security / what were you doing before security?
“I am new in the security industry and started working with Wilson Security in late Aug 2021 and reaching my 7 months now. I was a salesperson before joining the security industry.”
Why / how did you get into security as a career?
“Initially, I came to the security industry to make some extra income for my living. I then realised the proportion of women is low compared to men, so I decided to embrace it as a career to create an example for other women that they can also take this industry as a career and create an equal gender balance in the security industry.”
What has been your favourite role in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
“So far, I have worked at two sites in the healthcare sector and government sectors. I would say my favourite position is working as concierge security where I perform administrative duties and provide customer service to help fulfill building users’ requests and actively maintain the security of the buildings through visual inspection, regular health and safety checks, and the monitoring of the CCTV system.
This industry has been dominated by men, but we’ve recently seen a change in the trend and more women are now adopting it as a career, which is really good and healthy to create a balanced industry. Women should be encouraged to reach top managerial levels to set a benchmark and inspiration for other women – this is how we can empower society as a whole.”
What has been a big challenge in your career?
“Being an international person in a country that has completely different traditions, values, and language, I first came across culture shock in the workplace. Working 12-hour night shifts at a hospital was sometimes a challenge to me as I had to adjust my sleeping habits and remain energised. As the only woman among a dozen male colleagues, I may not have been as physically strong as a male, however, I was good at looking after adolescent patients as females tend to be more empathetic and patient. I never saw this challenge as a weakness instead I made it a strength and emerged more empowered.”
What change would you like to see to help Break The Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination?
“I would like to see equal opportunity for women as well as men, not only in the security industry but in every industry because when women are empowered, society itself is empowered. There should not be any judgment at the workplace on the basis of gender, age or race, and everyone should be equally respected and given an opportunity.”
Shellie Brooker | Patrols Supervisor
QLD
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security/ What were you doing before Security?
"I have been working with Wilson Security coming up to three years this year. I previously worked for another company as their HR/Administration Manager, I was there for 20 years and originally started as and Administration Assistant and Debt collection. In that company, I slowly worked my way up working in the Call Centre then a Call Centre Supervisor and then into my final role as HR/Administration Manager."
Why/how did you get into security as a career?
"I was made redundant in my previous employment after 20 years with the company, so it was quite a shock to know that I had to find another job and go for interviews after all that time. I came across the ad for Wilson Security and thought why not challenge myself into something totally different and broaden my horizons."
What has been your favourite position / role/ job to do in your career? Why should more women consider a career in security?
Working as Administration Co-ordinator, I have learnt so much in my short time with Wilson thanks to my managers and other team members who have given me great support and acknowledge my efforts. I have now taken on the role of Patrols Supervisor as I made it known that I would like to expand my knowledge and career at Wilsons – an opportunity came up and I was the first to put my hand up for the role. I think women should consider working in security. I have found working for Wilsons there is no limit or bias due to your gender and there are always people willing to help you along your journey whether that is male or female."
What has been a big challenge in your career?
"My biggest challenge at present is learning a new role, wanting to do the best I can and also still managing my current role as well. I am a person who likes structure and routine and there have certainly been many challenges along the way which takes me out of my comfort zone however I do enjoy a challenge and like to prove I can do this."
What change would you like to see to help break the bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
"I think breaking the bias/stereotypes starts at home showing our children that it doesn’t matter if you are male or female, we equally do the chores around the house and share these together. People also need to take a step back when making comments either about themselves or others think before speaking especially when it comes to judging yourself always say the positives around any young child or adult especially if you are the one who they look up to in society. The biggest part is that we are women, and we can do anything if we put our minds to it."
Glenice Grieve | Security Officer
NT
How long working in security / how long with Wilson Security / what were you doing before security?
“I commenced as a casual employee with Wilson Security on the 6th June 2019. Previously to embarking in the security industry, I owned and operated several businesses from 1993 – 2017.”
Why / how did you get into security as a career?
“I chose to begin work in the security industry because I like to engage with people in my community and to ensure their safety in paramount. I also wanted to challenge myself with something different.”
Why should more women consider a career in security?
“I believe in equal opportunities and I encourage more women to enter male dominated positions. It’s all about making change and breaking down barriers. Women respond differently to challenging situations with a more soft, gentle, calm, caring, understanding approach. This is an important attribute that women bring to the security industry in the NT, which it still the "Outback of Australia". As a First Nations Woman and Elder, I am respected in the community within the Northern Territory.”
What has been your favourite position / role / job to do in your career?
“My greatest achievement is owning and operating my own businesses and collaborating with many people in organisations, private sectors, and government agencies.”
What has been a big challenge in your career?
“My biggest challenge is balancing work and family life.”
What change would you like to see to help Break The Bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
“I think it’s time for change where the History of the First Nations peoples is incorporated into the education sector in efforts to decrease or eliminate discrimination, stereotypes, and “the human race” free of bias, where everyone is equal.”
Katrina Farrway | Concierge Security
NSW
How long working in security?
“I have been working in the security industry for about 19 years and have been with Wilson Security for approximately eight months now. My life before security was as a Merchandiser/ Sales Representative in the FMCG industry.”
Why/how did you get into security as a career?
“I had always wanted to be in law enforcement of some kind. Law as a subject had always interested me. I had a friend who was in the NSW transport sector and had mentioned that the railways were looking for ticket inspectors. I applied for this role and managed to succeed in getting through. This role introduced me to another avenue which was as a CCTV Monitoring Centre Operator, which is where I first obtained my security licence and a career in security. This job in the security sector was one that I knew as a security guard I could really make a difference in and enjoy.”
What has been your favourite role in your career?
“My favourite role is definitely CCTV Monitoring Centre Operator in the transport industry. This position has allowed me to learn all facets of CCTV cameras, help points, downloading and saving of footage. I enjoyed working with the wide range of stakeholders and building wonderful relationships with them. It was a rewarding position that I took a lot of pride in and gained so much knowledge from."
Why should more women consider a career in security?
“I believe more women should consider a role in security as it is so much more than just working pubs and clubs. It has corporate roles, roles in aviation and transport, and working major events. It is a role that is customer focused and you can really develop and maintain great relationships with stakeholders. It is a role where you have some flexibility in your hours and a great deal of variety in your day. It is more than a job, it’s a career. The money is pretty great too!”
What has been a big challenge in your career?
“I think one of the biggest challenges in my career has always been trying to separate work life from home life. Sometimes things we incur throughout our day-to-day work environment takes an emotional toll on us and I have sometimes struggled with being able to separate the two. I find that when you are so passionate about a job it can be hard to switch off from that when you get home. The adrenalin and emotions are still running high when you get home. I find this a challenging part of being a career woman!”
What change would you like to see to help break the bias and create a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination?
“I would like to see a better understanding and awareness from others in relation to bias, stereotyping and discrimination. I think better education programmes throughout schools and university would be a great initiative.
From a personal perspective I believe we need to start evaluating people based on their personal characteristics rather than those affiliated with the group they belong to. In order to change, it is up to all of us in society to evaluate ourselves and learn how to become a nation who supports a culture of diversity and inclusion.”
