The Security Industry Authority’s Chief Executive, Ian Todd, recently announced his decision to step down from the role as a result of “significant changes in personal circumstances”. Michelle Russell has been appointed as Acting Chief Executive, and will take up the role from Mr Todd on 19 October 2020.
Michelle is currently the SIA’s Director of Inspections and Enforcement. Immediately prior to joining the SIA, Michelle was a Director at the charity regulator, the Charity Commission.
Elizabeth France, Chair of the SIA said: “Michelle was selected following an internal competition. All Authority Members took part in the interview and selection process and were impressed by the candidates’ performances. It confirmed our view that we have a strong senior team at the SIA. “After careful consideration, we decided that Michelle Russell should take the SIA forward as Acting Chief Executive until a permanent appointment is made, probably in about six months.”
Reflecting on her appointment, Michelle said: “I am pleased and excited to be taking on this role. I look forward to working with the Authority Members, the Directors and staff at the SIA, to continue to support the private security industry in protecting the public in these unprecedented times.”
Speaking about his departure Ian Todd said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead the SIA over the past 18 months and I am proud of what we have achieved together, particularly rising to the challenges of COVID-19. Whilst I am disappointed that I will not see our corporate plan through to completion, I remain positive that the foundations are strong and that I will be able to look back, in future, and see an even stronger organisation as a result. I would like to thank the Authority members and all staff for making my time at the SIA such a positive experience.”
Elizabeth France added: “We are sorry that, for personal reasons, Ian has decided not to continue as our Chief Executive. He is an excellent Chief Executive and has played an important part in the development of the SIA, leading it through a challenging period.”
The Security Industry Authority is the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK. Under the terms of the Private Security Act 2001, the SIA runs as an independent body, reporting to the Home Secretary.
Upcoming licence changes
In related news, the SIA is also changing the qualifications needed for an SIA licence. This follows a review of the licence-linked qualifications. The organisation has launched a public consultation on top-up training for SIA-licensed door supervisors and security guards.
The top-up training for door supervisors and security guards will include key elements of the new content that the SIA is introducing to licence-linked qualifications in April 2021. It has developed top-up training to make sure current Door Supervisor and Security Guarding licence holders have the same basic skills and knowledge as new entrants achieving the updated qualifications.
From October 2021, door supervisors and security guards will need to complete top-up training before they renew their licence.
The SIA had been inviting stakeholders to have their say and to take part in the consultation. The consultation concluded on 25 September 2020.
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