Dickinson has worked at the highest level within the security industry for 14 years, most recently as Director and General Manager of Group 4 Falck’s Immigration Services business. Before that he was Sales and Marketing Director of Group 4 Total Security Ltd, and worked closely with a number of systems suppliers in developing the Patrol and Response service.
His career has involved policy development relating to major issues affecting the industry, such as regulation and public/private partnerships, as well as regular liaison with senior officials in government and the police service. He is well-respected as a media spokesperson and conference speaker.
BSIA Chairman David Cowden commented: "The recruitment committee faced a very difficult task because of the large number of high-calibre applicants. However, it was unanimously agreed that David was the candidate best suited to tackle the Association’s strategic priorities and to deal with the challenges currently facing the sector. He has a history of consistent achievement within a dynamic industry environment, and will bring with him an understanding of security company concerns coupled with an excellent appreciation of the work of the Association.’
Mr Dickinson said: "I am looking forward to learning about all aspects of the BSIA and playing my part in shaping the future of our industry at a time when we face some of the most complex challenges but also our most exciting opportunities".
He noted recruitment and training as increasingly critical issues and said that rapid development of technology made it necessary to quickly develop standards and protocols.
"The BSIA has over 400 member companies, only 12 of which are publicly quoted. I see it as my role to support all of these companies – whether small, medium or large – in meeting the challenges of a tough commercial environment, and to make sure they feel they are getting value for money from their membership."
Meanwhile, the BSIA has welcomed the White Paper Policing A New Century as a real opportunity to modernise policing in the UK. It will enable the Police to focus on their core activities of detecting crime and bringing criminals to justice, while auxiliaries take on some of their more mundane tasks.David Fletcher said the proposals were "plain common sense".
