Navigating Success: Janine Hill’s Inspiring Journey in the Security Industry
We are delighted to share this article from the Australian Security Industry Association Limited (ASIAL) with permission.
The case study on Janine Hill, General Manager Customer Experience & Markets at Wilson Security, which appeared in the July- Sept edition of ASIAL’s member-exclusive magazine Security Insider, provides insights into her fascinating career.
A big thank you to ASIAL for their continued dedication to advancing the security industry. asial.com.au
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Janine Hill’s 26-year career in the security industry is a powerful testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence. Janine’s story illustrates the dynamic and rewarding nature of the security industry, where continuous learning, embracing diversity, and driving innovation are key to success. Her experiences offer invaluable insights for anyone considering a career in this ever-evolving field.
Janine’s 26-year career in the security industry began when she started work experience at her father’s company, MSA Security, at just 17. This business was later acquired by Wilson Security, which took her from the West to the East Coast in a national role. Her journey continued as she took on senior roles with MSS Security, during which she had two children and advanced her career to General Manager. Janine also contributed to the industry by volunteering as the ASIAL Victorian convenor for two years.
She then embarked on an exciting new career in the aviation industry with Rapiscan Systems, where she led the first Australian trial of Computed Tomography X-Ray, Auto Tray Return System and Body Scanning equipment used for passenger screening at a tier-one airport. Collaborating with a global team, she navigated various challenges, from installation to training and timing, ultimately achieving outstanding performance outcomes.
In 2020, Janine returned to the industry, joining Wilson Security as the National Customer Experience Manager. She is now part of Wilson Security’s leadership team as General Manager of Customer Experience and Markets.
One of Janine’s notable achievements at Wilson Security has been leading the establishment of the Peer Collaboration Groups. This highly successful project facilitated effective communication and teamwork, enabled them to overcome obstacles, solve problems collaboratively, support each other to achieve their objectives and inspire continuous improvement.
Janine’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Customer Service Trainer certification from the Customer Service Institute of Australia. She has completed numerous leadership and client solution development courses and holds Certificates 2 and 3 in Security Operations.
1. What do you enjoy about working in the security industry?
I enjoy working in the security industry because it is dynamic and challenging. I take pride in making a positive impact on communities and driving innovation while ensuring compliance. Working with a diverse range of people is fulfilling and allows for effective security solutions. As a woman who has seen the industry evolve in my 26 years and as the benefactor of the opportunity to show leadership, I am grateful to be part of an exciting industry that values diversity, encourages innovation and genuinely cares about the safety of all Australians.
It has not always been easy as a female manager in the field, but I relish a good challenge, and I am grateful to the organisations who have supported me despite my gender and thankful to the mentors I have found along the way. I have developed resilience as I’ve witnessed a new generation of security professionals evolve.
Customer service has risen as a superpower and diversity has helped to change thinking in terms of how we interact with our environment, what focus we put on social inclusion or initiatives, and why governance is critical to the success of any service contract.
2. What would you say to someone considering a role in the security industry?
Security is more than a job. It’s an opportunity for a lifelong career! I recently attended a celebration of employees who have worked for 15 and 25 years with Wilson Security. They valued the variety of work, the chance to work with many different customers, and across sectors in all kinds of roles.
In my experience, newcomers in the security industry may face misconceptions, such as the work is not for someone like me, or I will be faced with violence. Whilst our industry has some challenges in this regard, we are working together to ensure the safety of our people through better training, use of technology and closer relationships with local authorities.
We are no longer an industry who carries a chain of keys over our shoulder or leaves tickets in unlocked doors, but one where technology is constantly evolving and many roles provide access to exciting new ways of delivering the service. Our people are well-educated, professional and motivated to make a difference! Their safety is paramount, workplace experience valued, and as far as pay parity for workers in the field goes – we were one of the first industries to get this right!
My advice to anyone considering a role in this field is it’s a service industry with the responsibility of providing safety and security. If you have a passion for service and feel a sense of responsibility to the community, then this is an industry where you can truly make a difference to the people around you, your community and even Australia. You can find employment at high-rise buildings, Distribution Centres or at Mine Sites, Universities, Data Centres, Airports, Defence bases and other Critical Infrastructure. You can work on IT networks, with AI and Analytics, in Administration, Marketing, Digital, Cyber, Risk Management or Investigations!! The industry has so much to offer at every level.
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Conclusion
Janine Hill's story is an inspiring example of dedication, resilience, and leadership within the security industry. Her journey from starting work experience at her father's company to becoming General Manager of Customer Experience and Markets at Wilson Security highlights the security industry's dynamic nature and opportunities.
Janine's insights offer valuable guidance and encouragement for those considering a career in security. The industry is brimming with opportunities to make a meaningful impact, work with diverse teams, and drive positive change in communities.
To learn more about careers at Wilson Security, visit our careers page.
