CIS Newsletter - Autumn Edition - October 2025

OCTOBER 2025

I really don’t think we should send this edition out… not because it contains errors or that the timing is off, but because if our competitors read it, they’ll see exactly what great looks like. Is that a risk?

We’ve decided it’s not. What the team at CIS has built can’t be replicated easily. It’s the result of years of commitment, ambition, and the dedication of over 140 Head Office team members and more than 3,500 outstanding on-site colleagues who consistently ‘Make it Happen’. Achieving that kind of excellence doesn’t happen overnight!

A few words from

Neill Catton, CEO

It takes a deeply embedded culture to achieve the success we’re seeing across our new promotions, recruitment assessment days, award nominations, world-class academic rigour, long service awards, cuttingedge technology, and the many industry-leading contributions from our departments.

I am often asked how we measure success. Alongside KPIs, customer retention, and financial achievements, the measure that means the most to me is the happiness of our team. A clear reflection of this is our outstanding colleague retention rate, which is currently at its highest ever - 93%. That is success. The strength of CIS has always been, and will always be, driven by the ‘Passion’, ‘Determination’, and ‘Leadership’ of our people.

I’m incredibly proud to see this continue to grow stronger year after year - while others may see what great looks like, only CIS knows how to build it - together.

01. WELCOMING NEW TEAM MEMBERS TO THE CIS FAMILY

NEW BUSINESS

WELCOMING NEW TEAM MEMBERS TO THE CIS FAMILY!

02. SPOTLIGHT ON COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT

HEAD OF TALENT RESOURCING

SOCIAL VALUES RECRUITMENT (AUGUST 2025)

REED IN PARTNERSHIP ASSESSMENT DAY

On Thursday 18th of August, the resourcing team attended an assessment day in collaboration with Reed in Partnership, which focuses on supporting individuals looking to reenter the workforce or begin a new career journey. We’re pleased to announce that, 6 positions have been offered within our Operational Response Team. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusive recruitment and community engagement. By partnering with Reed in Partnership, we are helping to connect motivated candidates with meaningful employment opportunities and build a more diverse workforce.

CIS SECURITY AT UNIVERSITY OF WESTMINSTER FRESHERS

FAIR

CIS Security attended Freshers Week at the University of Westminster, where we had the pleasure of connecting with so many enthusiastic and talented students!

IT, Training, HR, Marketing, and the Innovative Solutions teams came together to represent CIS at the University of Westminster’s Fresher Fair. Held over three days, across two campuses, the event offered a valuable platform to engage directly with new students and introduce them to the exciting career pathways available within our teams.

Engaging with the next generation was an amazing and insightful experience. We shared our knowledge about the security industry and the wide range of sectors we operate in, from corporate and front-of-house to technology-led solutions.

Throughout the event, we had the opportunity to speak with a wide range of students from diverse academic backgrounds. Many expressed strong interest in areas such as technology, digital innovation, marketing strategy, and professional development. Our teams were on hand to offer insights into current and future job opportunities, internship programmes, and the kind of skills we value in potential candidates.

A big thank you to the University of Westminster for welcoming us, and to all the students who stopped to speak to us.

Your curiosity and energy is truly inspiring, and we are excited to see what the future holds for the security profession with such bright minds exploring the field!

STRATEGIC INTERNSHIP

PARTNERSHIP WITH UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE LONDON (UCL)

Following the successful launch of our Strategic Internship Partnership with University College London (UCL) in 2024, CIS is proud to announce the continuation of this initiative into its second year. Three outstanding students from UCL’s Department of Security and Crime Science have been selected to join CIS’s internship programme, gaining invaluable real-world experience within the security industry. UCL’s Department of Security and Crime Science is a global leader in applying scientific principles to crime prevention, security, and justice, offering cutting-edge education and research opportunities.

We are delighted to welcome Emese Dajka, Raquell Yiadom and William Surry, all pursuing degrees in Security and Crime Science, who will work alongside CIS Director of Risk and Intelligence team, and, Ray Marskell MSyl, the company’s inhouse intelligence team and many of our site managers who have kindly volunteered their time.

This collaboration is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice, offering students hands-on exposure to the dynamic challenges and opportunities within the security sector. Through this partnership, CIS and UCL aim to cultivate a new generation of crime scientists equipped with interdisciplinary skills, ranging from quantitative analysis to technical fieldwork, applied in real-world contexts.

As part of CIS’s commitment to ISO 30415 Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) standards, the programme also supports the development of clear career pathways for current, former, and future students specialising in security, risk, and other specialist disciplines. CIS’s inclusive, collaborative culture ensures that all participants thrive in real-life operational environments, where theory-based learning is transformed into practical expertise.

Ray Marskell MSyl stated; “We are excited to continue what we hope will be a long-term partnership with UCL. I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and commitment that students bring to the field of safety and security. Our goal is to provide them with meaningful insight into the diversity of roles within the sector, while also enriching our own practices with academic rigour and fresh perspectives.”

This initiative not only supports student development but also reinforces CIS’ commitment to innovation, excellence, and community engagement. By integrating academic insight with operational expertise, CIS continues to lead the way in shaping the future of security services.

We are proud to welcome the students to the team and look forward to supporting their journey as they contribute to and learn from realworld security operations at CIS.

Last month, we had three assessment days for Operational Response at Here East, led by Operations Director, Kieron Nunney.

On 22nd September, Senior Talent Resourcing Specialist, Darcie Alabaster attended an assessment day at Here East alongside Site Security Account Manager at HereEast, Tudor Williams.

The session welcomed nine attendees and we were pleased to extend three job offers following the session, with an additional candidate being considered for another role within Here East.

On the 1st October, Talent Resourcing Specialist, Mafalda Oliveira attended an assessment day alongside Kieron Nunney and Security Manager, Tom McCrone. The purpose of this was to recruit a new 5* response pool under Kieron’s portfolio.

We had two sessions with 20 attendees and the day resulted in 12 job offers including an offer for Paternoster Square and Warwick Court’s dedicated response vacancy. We also had a further two candidates put forward for other vacancies within the business.

On the 17th September, we hosted an assessment day for operational response, where 3 job offers were made. The assessment days involved group activities and individual interviews, all aimed at identifying top talent for CIS Security.

ESG Analyst Assessment Day

On Tuesday 29th of July An ‘ESG Analyst’ Assessment Day was arranged with Tracy Plant, People & Culture Director, Shelby Martin, Talent Resourcing Officer, Jordy Mukudi, ESG Manager, Ray Marskell, Director of Risk and Intelligence and Jim McAllister QPM, Colleague Development Manager. We had the pleasure of assessing six high calibre applicants, who had gone through video interviews and an excel assessment as part of the application process. All applicants had achieved their master’s degree or equivalent.

The assessment day was an intense process which included all applicants presenting a different ESG scenario, a written exercise, a multiple-choice assessment, then a group exercise. This process allowed applicants to show their abilities, knowledge and personality. It was exciting to see such a diverse group of talented post graduate students competing for the one role. After this successful process, we made a job offer to Emerence Sepulchre de Solieres who started their journey with CIS on the 8th of September.

A huge well done to all the applicants for their determination!

Canada Water Assessment Day

On the 17th of July, Darcie Alabaster, Senior Talent Resourcing Specialist and Mafalda Oliveira, Resourcing Administrator attended an assessment day for Canada Water where 24 candidates attended across two sessions led by Terence Coates, Key Account Manager.

The sessions included a mix of group activities and individual evaluations designed to identify top talent for the security sector. We were pleased to make five offers which filled all positions available and one candidate was offered a Response Officer role within Terence’s portfolio.

At CIS Security, we take pride in the contributions of our work experience students and the positive impact they have across our organisation. Their excitement, new ideas, and eagerness to learn really make a difference on our teams, and we’re here to support them as they take important steps toward their future careers.

Offering work experience is about more than just giving students a chance to learn, it’s about opening their eyes to the wide range of career opportunities within the security sector. We aim to provide a wellrounded experience that helps students build a solid foundation for whatever path they choose in the future.

We offer work experience opportunities across a wide range of departments including Human Resources, IT, Sales, Marketing, Intelligence, and Operations, giving individuals the chance to explore different career paths and discover where their interests and strengths lie. This hands-on experience across different departments gives students a clear, well-rounded view of how our business works and how every department plays a part in our overall success.

Work experience is a vital part of personal and professional development. It helps individuals apply academic knowledge in real-world settings, while building essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. It also provides a clearer picture of workplace expectations and helps shape future career goals.

We’re proud to have played a part in the journeys of so many talented and enthusiastic individuals through our work experience programme. To all our past and future students, we wish you every success as you pursue your goals!

Zara Constantine

Langley Park School for Girls

“I had a really enjoyable time doing my work experience in the Marketing department at CIS Security. It was interesting to see how marketing supports the wider business and helps communicate the importance of security.

I learned a lot about how a professional environment works and how different teams collaborate. One of the highlights was visiting the Leadenhall Building and going to the City of London Police engagement day in Paternoster Square, giving me the chance to see the team in action at events. It gave me a real insight into the industry and made the whole experience even more exciting and memorable. Thank you to everyone at CIS Security for making me feel so welcome I’ve learned so much and truly enjoyed the experience.”

What part of your work experience did you enjoy the most?

During my work experience I enjoyed going on site visits the most. Specifically visiting The Leadenhall Building and The Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street. Whilst visiting The Leadenhall Building (one of the tallest buildings in London) I had the opportunity to visit the 42nd floor. I also really enjoyed watching the live events that were taking place in the building as well as learning camera techniques to capture these events to help create content for the CIS Security social media platforms.

What have you learnt during your time at CIS Security?

During my time at CIS security, I learnt how to use Canva effectively to create an engaging and appealing LinkedIn post. I also learnt how to capture captivating pictures using the different settings on an iPhone camera. I also observed and experienced the creation, drafting and approval procedures followed by the marketing team.

How would you describe CIS Security as a company/employer?

As an employer, CIS Security seems really focused on teamwork, learning, and doing work that makes a real difference. Even during my short time here on work experience, it’s clear they care about helping people grow and take security seriously in everything they do.

Would you consider working in the security industry when you’re older?

After spending time on work experience, I’ve become more interested in the security industry. I didn’t realise how many different roles there are such as marketing, communications, and strategy. I like the idea of working in a dynamic field that’s always changing and helps protect people and businesses from real-world threats. I’m still considering the marketing industry that I would like to work in, but the security industry is something I’d now seriously consider.

Our very own Georgina Martin, Head of Talent and Resourcing, at CIS had her article published in the City Security Magazine, discussing recruitment and evolving hiring practices, highlighting the importance of an inclusive approach and diverse paths to learning for successful onboarding.

We can honestly say the article makes for a great and insightful read, well done Georgina!

Click on the link below to read Georgina’s article.

NAOMI OKE THE JOURNEY

OF AN

APPRENTICE...

Being a Sales and Marketing Apprentice has been an amazing and rewarding experience. From the beginning, I’ve felt truly valued and supported in my role, and it’s been incredible to see how much I’ve grown professionally and personally. Seeing that I am making excellent progress in my Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketing Course has increased my confidence in my performance as a Sales and Marketing apprentice.

A huge part of that growth is thanks to my wonderful team, especially my Line Manager, Marketing Manager, Vijay Chand, along with Marketing Assistant, Raquel Cuevas, they have been nothing but supportive, patient, and encouraging throughout my journey. Whether it’s offering guidance on new projects, sharing their knowledge, or simply checking in to see how I’m getting on and their amazing sense of humour, they’ve always been there to help me every step of the way.

“Naomi’s work ethic and drive is going from strength to strengh, she is a quick learner in regards to using the latest design software, social media and photography. We have had so much great feedback from our colleagues and customers for all her hard work.

It is great to see her learning and working whilst progressing in her Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketing Course. I also want to thank Raquel for mentoring Naomi and teaching her some of her great skills (video editing) and more.

CIS’ Apprenticeship Programme really is an industry leading platform!”

Vijay Chand - Maketing Manager

My team’s belief in me has helped build my confidence and pushed me to keep improving and learning more each day. Working alongside such inspiring and positive people has made my apprenticeship not only enjoyable but genuinely meaningful.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn in such a supportive environment, and I’m excited to continue developing my skills and contributing to the team and company. I love the Culture and Inclusivity here at CIS, and I feel the togetherness on a daily basis.

03. COMPANY AWARDS & PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS

CIS SECURITY - SECURITY & FIRE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE, FINALIST

We’re excited to announce that CIS have been shortlisted in TEN categories at The Security & Fire Awards for Excellence!

f Security or Fire Sustainability Champion

f Security Team of the Year - At the Leadenhall Building

f Security Consultancy of the Year

f Security or Fire Diversity and Inclusion Champion

f Security or Fire Best Company to Work for

f Security Training Initiative of the YearCustomer Service Training

f Security Guarding Company of the Year Over £35m Annual Turnover

f Security Manager of the Year – Muhammed Mulla

f Security or Fire ESG Initiative of the Year

f Industry Choice Security Guarding Company

This prestigious recognition reflects our team’s dedication and passion and truly means the world to us. We appreciate your continued support and wish all finalists the very best of luck. Let’s celebrate our achievements together!

Click

We are proud to announce that our Payroll & Benefits Team has been honoured as finalists in three distinguished categories at The

This recognition underscores our team’s unwavering dedication, expertise, and commitment to providing exceptional service to both our colleagues and clients.

Being shortlisted across these categories highlights our integral role in fostering a supportive work environment, enhancing employee experiences, and consistently exceeding service expectations. We are immensely proud of our achievements and look forward to celebrating at the awards ceremony on the 18th November.

JLL SECURITY AND FRONT OF HOUSE STELLAR AWARDS 2025

Last month, we were honoured to be a part of this truly special occasion, a celebration of dedication, excellence, and the people who make our industry exceptional.

Alongside our industry peers: Bidvest Noonan, Mitie, Portico, G4S and our customer JLL recognised the outstanding commitment and achievements of frontline teams across the sector.

Everything from heroic moments to consistent excellence, the awards showcased the stories that too often go unheard, but they form the backbone of everything we do in security and front of house services.

A huge thank you to JLL for bringing us all together and putting the spotlight where it belongs, on our people.

To our CIS Security colleagues and everyone across the industry: we thank you and we celebrate you.

CIS’ 1st entry and we made it as finalists under the ‘Young Achiever of the year’ category.

Albert Byfield was unfortunately not chosen as a winner however, being nominated was an achievement and the experience was amazing. Attending the event was a great opportunity for networking with linked providers like Wise Parking who assist at Lewisham Hospital who were also sponsoring part of the event.

The Sceptre Awards celebrate the very best in UK Retail Destination management, recognising individuals and teams who go above and beyond to make a difference across the industry.

A big congratulations to Albert!

We are incredibly proud of you being recognised at this level, and moving forward we are even more excited about what’s ahead!

Albert shares:

“I was genuinely honoured when I found out I’d been shortlisted. I believe it comes down to integrity, initiative, and adaptability. You need to care about the details, be willing to speak up when something’s not right, and stay proactive in a constantly evolving environment. A great young achiever doesn’t just follow procedures, they improve them and help bring others along with them.”

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF SERVICE

We’re proud to celebrate Levi Selassie, who has been with CIS Security for 10 years and dedicated the last 7 years to his site. A humble, dependable professional, Levi is an absolute credit to both the company and the site.

Levi takes pride in his work, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all students and working seamlessly with his team. I am very proud to have him on my team.

Thank you, Levi, for your commitment and outstanding service!

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR COLLEAGUES AT THE ST BOTOLPH BUILDING RECEIVEING THEIR SERVICE AWARDS FOR 10 YEARS AT CIS.

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR COLLEAGUES AT THE ST BOTOLPH BUILDING RECEIVEING THEIR SERVICE AWARDS FOR 10 YEARS AT CIS.

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR COLLEAGUES AT THE ST BOTOLPH BUILDING RECEIVEING THEIR SERVICE AWARDS FOR 10 YEARS AT CIS.

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO IKEDI ANI-OKOYE FOR 20 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH CIS

04. WELLBEING AND BENEFITS

PAYROLL & COLLEAGUE BENEFITS

Welcome to our Payroll & colleague Benefits Corner news!

Evi, Casey, Aleks, Cheryl, Simeon & Abdalla will be sending out tips and reminders on all things payroll!

WEDDING BONUS

Wedding bonus is a monetary gift provided by us to colleagues who are getting married. It’s our way of giving to your wonderful occasion and helping towards wedding expenses.

“Hi, my name is Tyrese, I joined CIS at the end of September as a Payroll Apprentice and I couldn’t imagine a more caring, inclusive, and hardworking team, and company, to start my career.”

ELIGIBILITY:

f Notify your line manager and relevant departments of your wedding day.

f Line manager approves.

f We then review and proceed to add the bonus within your next pay packet.

EdApp: The Payroll Guide Course

EdApp is a multi-award-winning mobile-first learning platform that introduces a better way to train teams anytime, anywhere, on any device.

TYRESE ROBERTS

PAYROLL APPRENTICE

The payroll guide course under the EdApp entails information of your payslip. For example:

f When and where you receive your payslip.

f Pay dates and relevant dates.

f Description of payslip elements such as deduction and earnings.

There are simple steps to using the EdApp for the first time:

f Download the EdApp from the App Store for iOS, or the Google Play Store for Android.

f Alternatively, log into the Hub where it will redirect you into the application.

We are thrilled to announce the new payslip module addition to the EdApp platform, available to all colleagues within the business.

CELEBRATING NATIONAL PAYROLL WEEK 2025

We would love to take a moment to appreciate the critical role payroll plays in the success of every organisation.

Led by the The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP), National Payroll Week shines a light on the professionals who ensure that people are paid correctly, on time, and with care, helping to keep businesses compliant, efficient, andpeople-focused.

A very special shoutout to our wonderful Director of Payroll and Benefits, Evi Garoufi-London, and her brilliant team, whose incredible hard work, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication have shaped our Payroll Department into the high-performing, trusted unit it is today.

Payroll may happen quietly in the background, but its impact is felt across every corner of the business and we are truly grateful for everything the team does to support our colleagues on the frontline and beyond.

Thank you, Evi and team. You are at the heart of what makes CIS thrive!

We are pleased to announce that Early Pay has been rebranded as PayWise+.

PayWise+ offers the same convenient access to some of your earned wages before payday, along with additional features such as shopping vouchers and smart financial planning tools.

All existing users can continue using the app as usual and will benefit from improved services under the new PayWise+ brand.

As the leaves fall and the season changes, your generosity can make a lasting impact.

This October, join Payroll Giving - a simple way to donate straight to charities from your pay. It’s tax-efficient, hassle-free, and supports the causes you care about most. A £5 donation actually costs you no more than £4.

While autumn reminds us that everything changes, your kindness stays strong with a regular gift.

Give a little, change a lot - right from your payslip. Set up your donation. Please visit the site below or scan the QR code.

ht tps:// ciss ecurity .givin gonline.org.uk

COLLEAGUE BENEFITS

CIS offers amazing colleague benefits. From tax-free bike purchases to huge restaurant & takeaway discounts with TasteCard, dental & optical plans with HSF and high street savings that make a difference to every pocket! CIS has it all!

Our extensive colleague benefits collection can be found under The Hub, and it is best to visit using a desktop version of a PC rather than a phone as this way it is easier to navigate through the different benefits.

****HSF-Assist****

HSF Assist is our FREE employee assistance programme, available for all colleagues to use. It provides access to a variety of helplines and services. These include a GP advice line, Virtual Doctor and a private prescription service. It also includes counselling and legal advice. The service is accessed by phoning the HSF Assist telephone number and selecting the option you need. You don’t have to be HSF member to access HSF-Assist.

****TASTECARD****

keep an eye out for our Tastecard campaign fast approaching in the upcoming months. You will hear communications over our communication channel.

At CIS, we truly believe that our strength lies in our people - our passionate, dedicated colleagues who bring the vision to life every single day.

Our recent Company Business Update at The Clermont, Charing Cross, was a fantastic opportunity to come together as one team to share, listen and look forward to an exciting future of growth. The room was full of energy, connection and purpose as we reflected on how far we have come and where we are headed next.

The day reminded us of what makes CIS truly special: our people, our customers, and our commitment to the communities we serve.

Here’s to growing together and looking to the future!

Members of our senior management team, along with other key colleagues, recently participated in a training exercise led by the City of London Police Cyber Griffin team. This timely session provided a valuable opportunity to test and strengthen our incident response plans, ensuring we are well-prepared to address any cyber-related threats that could affect our business.

Given the critical importance of data integrity, exercises like this form an essential part of our broader testing and resilience programme, helping us to mitigate the potential impact of cyber incidents on both our colleagues and customers.

CELEBRATING OUR INCREDIBLE SECURITY COLLEAGUES!

We were proud to honour our incredible officers with tokens of appreciation for International Security Officers’ Day on 24th July. This was a day to pause, say thank you, and show just how much we value the vigilance, courage, and professionalism they demonstrate day in and day out.

To every CIS Security Professional: this recognition is for you! Thank you for your dedication, resilience, and leadership you bring to every shift.

Creating Hope Through Action Conference

CIS is immeasurably proud to support the Consortium for the Prevention of Suicide’s ‘Creating Hope Through Action Conference’, with our Director of Sales and Marketing, Amanda McCloskey, and our Client Relationship Director, Alistair Sutherland QPM, both speaking at the event.

This is a cause that matters deeply. The Consortium brings together compassionate, socially responsible organisations in security, committed to a shared mission: to harness the innovation, scale and resources of the corporate world to help prevent suicide. By coming together across the sector, we can help make real change. The Consortium is doing powerful work and we are honoured to play a small part in it.

Amanda and Alistair shared their insights on how organisations can approach this topic with care, accountability and purpose. We were grateful to support this event, and grateful to learn alongside so many others.

To everyone at the Consortium for the Prevention of Suicide, thank you for opening your doors, hearts, and minds to businesses like ours. We are honoured to stand with you in this important work.

Learn more about the Consortium:

https://lnkd.in/ew3J8GbW

“Never underestimate the basics of looking after your staff’s mental health and wellbeing. Supporting your workforce is an important investment.”

Amanda

McCloskey

Sales & Marketing Manager

COMMONWEALTH ENTERPRISE AND INVESTMENT COUNCIL (CWEIC)

We are delighted to welcome CIS as a valued Strategic Partner of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC).

With over 55 years of experience, CIS Security has established itself as the UK’s largest independently owned specialist security provider, delivering bespoke protection solutions across the UK, Ireland, and Europe. Renowned for safeguarding high-profile assets and complex environments, from iconic landmarks to prestigious institutions, CIS places safety, discretion, and customer experience at the heart of its operations.

We are also pleased to announce that Managing Director of Operations, Paul Brady, has joined CWEIC’s Global Advisory Council. With his extensive background in security management and operations, Paul brings invaluable leadership, insight, and expertise to our global network.

We look forward to a successful partnership with CIS Security that will enable CWEIC members to access world-class security expertise and innovative solutions across the Commonwealth.

Last week, CIS was pleased to collaborate with London Borough of Hackney to deliver a Female Safety and Behavioural Awareness Seminar.

The session was led by our in-house Behavioural Detection & Training Specialist, Simon Riley, and focused on important, practical ways to stay aware and confident in different environments.

It was a valuable and engaging discussion with great input from everyone who attended. A big thank you to Simon for leading the day and to Key Account Manager, Michael Dawson, Director of Risk and Intelligence, Ray Marskell, and London Borough of Hackney for supporting this important initiative.

Simon Riley stated:

“It is and was a huge privilege to deliver this safety seminar. To have access to such a varied and knowledgeable audience from the Hackney County Council ‘team’, was an opportunity not to be wasted. I am very passionate about the safety of our community and how we protect, give confidence and develop skill-set. This was a huge team effort, as community safety should always be, and to also get the opportunity to run a ‘live’ walk and talk - this was a first and highlight of my working week. London is a safe city, it is full of good people and life is to be enjoyed.”

“It was brilliant to see so many women from different departments across the council join the safety seminar run by CIS. Thankfully incidents affecting our staff are rare, but I know those who attended really valued the practical advice to help keep them safe.”

Tracy Spallin

Facilities Operations and Contracts Manager

Asset Management Delivery

The London Borough of Hackney

Strategy Property Services

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DAY AT LONDON BRIDGE

CITY

On August 26th, CIS had the pleasure of collaborating with London Bridge City who hosted a Community Engagement Day with our neighbours from Dockhead Fire Station London Search and Rescue (LONSAR) and the Metropolitan Police. The event promoted public safety by the river, awareness of e-bike and e-scooter charging, life safety as well as situational awareness to prevent becoming a victim of crime, the day has been an enormous success.

With the backdrop of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and HMS Belfast, this was the perfect opportunity to engage with the thousands of people who walk through the estate on a daily basis.

John Reynolds, Head of Security for London Bridge City said:

“These events are worth their weight in gold. Demonstrating collaboration with the blue light services and those critical partners in public safety we can truly evidence that London Bridge City is a safe and secure environment where we continually seek to improve. I am grateful for Thomas Sharp, London Fire Brigade and Paige Woodhouse, Marketing at London Bridge City for organising this event.”

A huge well done to all involved!

THE LEADENHALL BUILDING PHONE MARKING INITIATIVE

Last month at The Leadenhall Building, CIS teamed up with the City of London Police and the Eastern City Business Improvement District (BID) for a free mobile phone marking session.

This quick, invisible marking not only helps return stolen devices to their owners but also acts as a powerful deterrent to theft.

This is part of our ongoing commitment to keeping our community safe, with regular police presence and proactive crime prevention initiatives.

A big thank you to everyone who took part and to our partners for their continued support in making the City a safer place to work and visit.

40 LEADENHALL PHONE MARKING INTIATIVE

The City of London Police, Eastern City and Business Improvement District BID Phone Marking Initiative at 40 Leadenhall

Last month, CIS Security was proud to support Eastern City BID, 40 Leadenhall and the City of London Police on this great phone marking initiative.

Ellie Patel, 40 Leadenhall JLL Community Manager, stated:

“The Community team were proud to support the City of London Police’s (CoLP) phone marking initiative at 40 Leadenhall. Engagement from our occupiers was great with over 170 phones tagged. It’s a fantastic demonstration of how working closely together with the Eastern City BID, the CoLP and our own security team strengthens efforts to protect our community and deter crime.”

Henry Johnstone EC BID Chief Operating Officer, stated:

“We’re delighted to have 40 Leadenhall and its tenants take part in our free mobile phone marking initiative. We know that phone theft is a major concern amongst local employees but this project – rolled out in collaboration with the City of London Police – is helping deter theft and re-unite owners of lost or stolen devices with their property. This sits alongside some excellent proactive work undertaken by the police which is already seeing positive results.”

Andrew Gough, Head of Security, 40 Leadenhall, stated:

“Anyone you speak to now in London has either been affected by phone thefts or knows someone that has, either a friend or family member. The CoLP have worked tirelessly over the last 18 months to combat this with many phones being recovered from criminals, but it is then very difficult to identify who that phone belongs too. These gadget marking kits by Secure Asset Register keep your details recorded so that if your device is recovered it can be safely returned to you. This event was a great collaboration between 40 Leadenhall, CIS Security, the EC BID team, and the CoLP that saw 171 phones tagged in the space of two hours.”

A huge well done to all involved!

GREAT FEEDBACK

We just wanted to share with you some positive feedback we received from a charity event we had earlier this month organised by our customer (Knight Frank Promise).

The event was organised by our customer with a company called “Camerados”, a charity that the aim’s in engaging with the general public to open up and talk in aid of mental health awareness.

The event organiser from Camerados sent an email thanking everyone on the day and named a few individuals in particular from the CIS security team, John Moore, Rui Pinto and Omar Singhateh Ceesay.

A huge well done to our CIS security team who go above and beyond!

The one and only Siobhan and legendary Mike,

It was a great day! Firstly for the conversations we had:

f The nervous businessman who said the public living room gave him confidence to handle his meeting and wants to set up a public living room in Shenzhen(!)

f The Ukrainian student who had been crying that morning from guilt (for not being at home) but felt perked up and happy from her time with us

f The woman from Canterbury who was feeling low but now felt inspired to take the idea back to her homeless charity where she volunteered

f The staff in Pret who get up at 3am to come to work who said it made their day better! (And kept giving us free cookies!!!)

f The Moleskin shop manager who came down with free notebooks for visitors to write their thoughts in and offering discount for anyone using the public living room!!

f And many more (so many commuters said “we need more of this!”

What a great idea, both a constant refrain all day) Secondly, it was great because your people were so positive and Can-Do. Rui and Omar the security guys were smiley and helpful all day. Fany was hilarious and kept us all entertained, inviting people into the PLR with “Come on in Chicas!”. John in the loading bay was a Gent, looking after our van protectively.

Alex you gave us so much of your time helping us set up and Daria you were generous when we blocked the thoroughfare a bit too much and sorted it without fuss AND your post on Linkedin absolutely nailed it, not everyone gets what we’re doing - it’s more than just sofas.

Anyway - enough gushing, just a big big thank you. Rui said “we need this here every day” and I’m inclined to agree. If you ever want to take on a project like this we’d love to help you.

Yours in major gratitude,

Kindest Regards,

WOMEN IN SECURITY AWARDS

The night was dedicated to recognising the outstanding talent and leadership of women across our industry.

We were proud to support an event that continues to spotlight the contributions of women who go above and beyond every day, often in challenging environments, to keep people and places safe. A huge congratulations to all the finalists and winners, your stories inspire and elevate the entire security sector.

We were especially proud to cheer on our very own Ashley Attard, Controller at The Minster Building, who was nominated this year. Ashley’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence reflect the values we hold close at CIS. Her nomination is a testament to the impact she makes daily, and we are so proud!

SUPPORTING OUR CUSTOMERS NATIONALLY

The CIS Security National Operations Team have successfully mobilised five new sites for CBRE in a short timeframe. Richard Beddoes, National Operations Director, and Barry Thompson, Regional Account Manager led a seamless transfer - achieving a 100% TUPE transfer rate.

X The Hive Building – Manchester

X Canada House – Manchester

X Ship Canal House – Manchester

X The Prudential Buildings – Bristol

X Billiards Building – Birmingham

WorkmanHartlebury Trading Estate

This site transferred to Workman from another customer and CIS Security was retained as the customer and occupiers are happy with the performance of the CIS Security Team.

Richard Beddoes National Operations Director

Barry Thompson Regional Account Manager A huge huge well done to Richard, Barry and the team for going above and beyond!

ISO22301 BUSINESS

CONTINUITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS - 2 LONDON WALL PLACE

The team at 2 London Wall Place are pleased to announce we have successfully achieved the recertification of ISO22301 Business Continuity Management Systems.

This ensures we can maintain critical operations during any disruption. It helps us identify gaps, improve preparedness, comply with regulations, and build confidence among occupiers and clients that our building operations are resilient.

CIS CITIZENSHIP TRUST DONATION

We are committed to supporting the safety and wellbeing of the communities we serve. That’s why through our Citizenship Trust, we have recently donated to Bridge Watch, a volunteer-led initiative that provides vital support to individuals experiencing mental health crises on and around London’s Thames bridges.

Every day, an average of 15 people die by suicide in England and Wales. Many who reach crisis point do so in public spaces, including some of London’s most iconic locations. Bridge Watch was established in 2023 to offer a trained, compassionate presence on the bridges - listening without judgement and helping those in distress find the right support.

Since its launch, volunteers have contributed over 1,000 hours of patrols and made 85 positive interventions, more than 30 of which involved individuals at very high risk of entering the water.

Our donation will enable Bridge Watch to recruit, train and support six additional volunteers, providing around 150 more hours of patrols each year.

Claire Giraud, Co founder of Bridge Watch, and Paul Malone, Programme Lead, stated; “We are so grateful to CIS for their generous donation, this will enable us to train additional volunteers, as well as strengthening our already excellent relationship with security professionals. This donation is only one aspect of the important/critical role the security industry plays in the prevention of suicide”.

We are proud to stand behind this important work and the volunteers who dedicate their time to protecting lives and making our city a safer, more supportive place for everyone.

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNITY AWARENESS DAY

Earlier this month, CIS collaborated with Westminster City Council and the Metropolitan Police supporting the vital role of Safe Havens in supporting vulnerable individuals.

Accredited as a Safe Haven, West One serves as a safe and supportive environment for those facing vulnerability or seeking a secure pause before heading home.

The event raised awareness and reinforced a shared commitment to making Westminster safer for everyone.

X Preventing crime

X Tackling anti-social behaviour

X Reducing offending and exploitation

X Supporting victims

X Countering-terrorism

X Building resilience and preparing for emergencies

Find out more: https://lnkd.in/dX-mFH8Q

A huge well done to all involved!

SNIFFER DOGS ON SITE

Paws on Patrol!

Earlier this month, we had the pleasure of welcoming Olly (The Dog) to one of our sites we opperate in, and what a superstar he was! Every year our four-legged friends come to support security, showing presence and putting a smile on everyone’s face.

This time, Olly’s sharp nose picked up cannabis, which led to a further search and the discovery of a weapon, proving just how valuable our canine partners are in keeping sites safe.

Of course, welfare always comes first. Olly was clearly well looked after, full of energy, and very happy to be on duty. I made sure to check! It was a joy to see the balance between serious security work and the joy a dog can bring to the workplace.

A big thank you to Olly for keeping us safe and making the team smile.

JIM McALLISTER - HEAD OF COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT

I’ve been with CIS Security for two years. As a former Police Officer with experience in leadership and incident preparedness, I bring a range of transferable skills to my role. At CIS, I focus on helping colleagues, customers, and communities be operationally prepared for the situations they may face, while also providing leadership training for current and aspiring leaders.

Outside of work, I love hiking in the mountains and exploring new places in my campervan, Terry.

PAULA ORTON - COMPANY TRAINER

As a CIS trainer specialising in Customer Service and soft skills, I create bespoke courses that help colleagues deliver the exceptional service we’re known for. With a background in 5-star hospitality, I focus on developing communication skills and boosting confidence so every interaction shines.

When I’m not training, you’ll find me in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes - bringing the same creativity and precision to baking as I do to learning.

STEVE WICKS - TRAINING MANAGER

A CIS trainer specialising in First Aid, Physical Intervention, Non-Verbal Communication, Conflict Management, and Drone Legislation. This diversity has enabled me to gain approval to deliver over 30 different regulated courses with various awarding bodies. This diversity has resulted in me being invited to join several SIA course reviews boards which effects all our frontline colleagues. In my spare time I enjoy long distance running, normally buy running half marathons and full marathons. In 2026 I plan to run at least 3 marathons including one in Oslo Norway.

DANIEL STANGER - COMPANY TRAINER

As a Company Trainer at CIS Security, I am qualified to deliver a wide range of courses across Security, First Aid, Health & Safety, Fire Safety, and Customer Service. I also bring experience in apprenticeship delivery within the security and facilities sector, which enables me to serve as the CIS Apprenticeship Engagement Lead.

My career in security began during my time at university, where I studied Computer Science and wrote my dissertation on how computer applications can enhance learning. Since then, I’ve remained in the security industry, gaining valuable experience in roles such as Door Supervision, Festival Emergency Response, Close Protection, and Shopping Centre Operations.

I take pride in my accomplishments, including earning my university degree and obtaining a variety of career-related qualifications, from teaching and assessing to conflict management and physical intervention. Driven by passion and determination for all things development, I am currently enrolled in a Level 5 Learning and Development Business Partner apprenticeship, further expanding my own knowledge and skills.

By investing in my own growth, I aim to help CIS foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment, one where individuals can thrive, develop, and succeed together. If using individual head shots at all, please use the below for Dan, not any other on file.

NICOLE BROWN - SENIOR COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR

As the Senior Colleague Development Administrator my main focus is supporting the training team and organising courses. I’ve been working in the security industry for 8 years now, which 6 and half years have been in Learning and Development.

In my spare time (which is spent mainly running around my partner, daughter and 2 dogs) I enjoy reading true crime books / watching documentaries.

JAIDY MADRIGAL - COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR

As a Learning & Development Administrator at CIS, I make sure our training world runs smoothly -w from bookings to training packs to creating certificates. I enjoy keeping things organised and making sure every course is set up for success, so our colleagues can focus on learning and growth.

Outside of work, I’m all about health and fitness, discovering new cafés and restaurants in London, and travelling whenever I can.

DARCY FLETCHER - HEALTH & WELLBEING BUSINESS PARTNER

As the Health and Wellbeing Business Partner at CIS , I support the delivery of medical and mental health training whilst overseeing company policies, procedures and strategies that support the company. My role is to champion the wellbeing, resilience, and essential skills of our Colleagues and Customers.

My favourite thing to do is listen to music, it’s my source of connection and calm. Exploring music helps me to find focus and positivity injecting this into my passion at work!

WALTERS ABECK - COMPANY TRAINER

An experienced SIA trainer working for CIS Security, I provide top-notch training that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in security roles. My approach combines practical experience with comprehensive instruction, ensuring that every trainee is well-prepared for real-world challenges.

Outside of my professional life, I have a passion for fitness and sports. I spend my leisure time at the gym, focusing on strength and conditioning, and I enjoy playing football, which keeps me active and enhances my teamwork .

WORLD FIRST AID DAY

The 12th September marked World First Aid Day, a moment to reflect on the power of quick thinking, compassion, and the courage to act.

In honour of this day, we are incredibly proud to share a story of two CIS Security colleague, Darcy Fletcher and Steve Wicks, who exemplified all of this and more.

After a long day delivering FREC training in Hackney, they were heading home when they encountered not one, but two separate medical emergencies at Stratford Station.

They first assisted a man in severe pain from a dislocated shoulder after a fall. While helping him, they were alerted to a second individual who had collapsed on a train. Darcy immediately attended the situation while Steve remained with the first casualty. Although the second person declined assistance, they both continued to ensure the first patient was stabilised and reassured.

With emergency services delayed and the patient in visible distress, Darcy and Steve went above and beyond – personally escorting him to the nearest hospital in a taxi and staying with him until he was safely admitted.

They delayed their own return home by over three hours.

In a busy station where many others walked past, they did not hesitate. Their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to doing the right thing reflects not just their training, but their character.

They are our everyday heroes, showing that leadership, empathy, and action are not confined to the workplace.

On behalf of everyone at CIS Security, thank you Darcy and Steve for living our values when it mattered most.

NATIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE WEEK!

At CIS, we were proud to celebrate this week. We are dedicated to recognising the people who make a difference daily. Our incredible teams deliver empathy, innovation, and service excellence across every site and role.

Customer Service Week is more than just a date in the calendar; it’s a reminder of the passion, professionalism, and pride our people bring to every interaction. From creating welcoming front-of-house experiences to delivering engaging training and development, our teams go above and beyond to make every moment count.

We were proud to support this initiative to celebrate the exceptional individuals who make CIS Security synonymous with reliability, warmth, and excellence.

Thank you to every member of our CIS family for your continued dedication and for setting the standard in customer care.

20 YEARS OF SPITALFIELDS!

A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY, HISTORY AND PARTNERSHIP

Last month, we had the honour of joining the vibrant celebration of “20 Years of Spitalfields Market”, marking two decades since the regeneration of this iconic London destination.

Despite the rain, the sun made its way through, setting the perfect stage for an afternoon filled with live entertainment, dancing, food, stories and a strong sense of community spirit. It was a day to reflect on the journey of SpitalfieldsMarket, the history, nostalgia, and all those who have helped shape its evolution.

We, at CIS, are incredibly proud to have held the security contract at Spitalfields for the entire 20 years. Being part of their transformation and continued success has been a privilege, and a testament to our hardworking and dedicated team, people-first culture and long-term partnerships.

Here’s to many more years of connection, collaboration, and community!

CIS Security Limited is at number 6 on the Infologue Top 100 Security Companies 2024. Well deserved recognition!

OUR INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TEAM

Kuldeep Kainth Head of Innovative Solutions

Harwood

WATCHBOT

UK’S FIRST AUTOMATED SECURITY ROBOT

Earlier this month CIS held our launch event at the iconic Paddington Square, we invited our customers and supply partners to witness history being made, the UK’s first autonomous security robot, The Watchbot.

Star Robotics flew in from Madrid to present at the event, alongside our UK partners Robots Of London

The Watchbot has been operational in ten counties across the world, in retail, corporate, manufacturing and logistic security and is now ready to conquer the UK.

FROM THE FRONT LINE TO THE FUTURE

Meet the Team Behind our Innovative Solutions

The Innovative Solutions team is reshaping the way we protect our people, blending physical, technical and strategic security with cutting-edge tools. In this feature, we sit down with the team to learn more about their journey and how they are creating exciting new pathways for others across the community. Their stories are a powerful reminder of what is possible with hard work, vision and the right support.

Kuldeep stated: “Robotics is the future; you either embrace this or fall behind the curve.”

KULDEEP

KAINTH

Director of Innovative Solutions

“We stay at the forefront of technology and innovation and are not afraid to try new technologies... finding a solution is our passion.”

“Spend more time with stakeholders and understand what they require from security. If you can shape your role with compliance, customer service and stakeholder engagement you will become a more all-round security professional.”

Kuldeep Kainth - Director of Innovative Solutions.

You started out as a Security Officer, what is one thing you wish you knew then that you know now?

Spend more time with stakeholders and understand what they require from security. If you can shape your role with compliance, customer service and stakeholder engagement you will become a more all-round security professional.

How has your experience on the front line shaped the way you lead today?

Being able to walk in someone else shoes has helped me find solutions that not only benefit the client but the end users. I always think how would this solution help our teams on the ground.

Was there a turning point where you realised you wanted to create and lead something new within CIS?

I was appointed in the role at Goldsmiths University because they needed a leader who had experience in change management - I had previously worked on two projects at Heathrow Airport Terminal Two and Westfield shopping centre, in the operational readiness teams, creating and implementing new teams and structures.

This then led onto managing a security systems project at Goldsmiths. I had always had an interest in tech in security and very quickly realised my operational and project experience skills were transferable into the security systems world and this was a direction I felt CIS needed to evolve in. That was the birth of Innovative Solutions.

The launch of The Watchbot is a big milestone – what makes it a game-changer for security in the UK?

Robotics is the future; you either embrace this or fall behind the curve. I have been researching robotics in our industry over the past two years, I have met companies from all around the world, from the Middle-East, Far East, America and Europe. None of them have made a robot that is fully automated and cost effective for our industry, all the previous robots I researched were adaptations, until discovering The Watchbot.

Already in the three months we have been involved in the development of Watchbot, I have used my knowledge and contacts to find enhancements in the Watchbot’s AI capability, we are leading the way and this will benefit the industry as a whole - A robot that can enhance the security provision we deliver for our customers, allowing our operational colleagues to concentrate on customer services and specific tasks the stakeholders require, being able to send the robot into areas

that could cause a health and safety risk for our staff, patrolling in all weather and being able to continuously patrol for eight hours, all being monitored live by our control room operatives.

What sets our Innovative Solutions department apart from traditional security services?

We stay at the forefront of technology and innovation and are not afraid to try new technologies to benefit CIS, our colleagues and customers. We think outside the box and, over the past five years, have created an excellent supply chain of manufacturers, industry experts and enterprise level installers. We are willing to try our hand at all projects or requests that can benefit our colleagues or customers, finding a solution is our passion.

learn and grow. If I keep evolving and learning this will help the company to future proof our propositions. What is one emerging trend in security or innovation that you think people should be paying attention to now?

Use of data and trends. AI tools allow us to capture data and predict what will happen in the future, mitigating potential risks. Also, the use of AI Agents to complete tasks, allowing SMES to focus on what makes CIS standout, we can let the AI tools do the mundane tasks and use our time making a difference for our colleagues and customers.

GEORGE HARWOOD Security Systems Lead Solutions

What originally drew you to a career in security?

Honestly, I don’t think the security industry is always the first career path people think of, but once you step into it, you quickly realise just how important and rewarding it is. Like many others, I found my way into security somewhat unexpectedly, but I soon recognised the vital role we play in keeping people and places safe.

What was your first role in security, and did you ever imagine you would be where you are today?

I started my career in security systems as an engineer, working on the tools with installations, maintenance, and commissioning. This ranged from advanced addressable fire alarms to large-scale IP CCTV systems. From there, I became a senior engineer before moving to London to take over and grow my company’s London branch - which we successfully expanded.

George Harwood in 2025 presenting on behalf of CIS Innovative Solutions

“Technology will continue to advance... But human expertise will always be essential... The real power lies in combining both; smart technology supported by skilled people.”

That role gave me more exposure to the client-facing side of the industry: leading site meetings, developing project plans, and coordinating with other contractors. I quickly realised that my strengths lay in project management, leadership, and client relationships.

I then joined a company where I oversaw 150+ council buildings across London. My role involved managing engineers, attending client meetings, surveying and quoting, ordering equipment, and ensuring projects ran smoothly from start to finish. It was a steep learning curve, but I thrived under the responsibility.

From there, I joined CIS, where I have been able to further develop my skills while helping to grow the Innovative Solutions department. It’s been a rewarding journey, and while I always believed in myself and my abilities, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

George Harwood in 2017 working as an engineer

“Believe in yourself and commit fully to whatever you do. Be open to opportunities, even if they take you in an unexpected direction, you never know where they might lead or what skills you will discover on the way.”

Have there been moments where you felt unsure of your career path, and how did you move past that?

Yes, especially at the start. I originally went to university to study music, so the security industry was a very different direction for me. When I first began as a trainee, I had little experience on-sites and was completely new to using power tools. But I quickly adapted, built up my skills, and discovered how meaningful this work is - particularly in the fields of life safety systems. That early uncertainty didn’t last long once I found my footing and I haven’t looked back since.

What do you enjoy most about your role within Innovative Solutions?

I enjoy the variety and constant evolution of the security industry, it’s always moving forward, and you need to stay ahead. Within Innovative Solutions, I thrive on working directly with clients, conducting detailed system reviews, designing bespoke project plans, and seeing projects through from start to finish. I enjoy challenging myself, whether that’s driving growth in the department or stepping outside my comfort zone.

What are you most proud of achieving as a team so far?

I’m most proud of the growth and progress we have made. Since I joined CIS, we have evolved significantly; strengthening our supply partnerships, building a strong and capable team, and making sure we are delivering the right solutions for every client. There’s still plenty of work ahead, but we’re heading in the right direction, and I’m excited to be part of that journey!

If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Believe in yourself and commit fully to whatever you do. Be open to opportunities, even if they take you in an unexpected direction, you never know where they might lead or what skills you will discover on the way.

How do you see technology and human expertise working together in the future of our industry?

Technology will continue to advance, particularly with the growing role of AI, which has the potential to simplify processes and improve efficiency. But human expertise will always be essential, whether it’s understanding a client’s unique needs, designing the right solution, or applying judgment in complex situations. The real power lies in combining both; smart technology supported by skilled people.

Jay Emirhan-Kantar early in her career, working in education

JAY EMIRHANKANTAR

Security Systems Account Manager

Jay Emirhan-Kantar in 2025 at a Tech Expo

What originally drew you to a career in security?

Coming from an educational background, security was never my initial career choice. However, I’ve always been known for my problem-solving skills and my ability to support others in achieving their goals. When I decided to make a major career change, I began to reflect on what aspects of a job truly make me happy.

In this new role, I continue to develop my strategic and client management capabilities while delivering tailored security solutions and maintaining high standards of service with our department.

Have there been moments where you felt unsure of your career path and how did you move past that?

“Technology is a tool that empowers people to work smarter... human expertise will remain essential for interpretation, decision making and client relationships which is integral to our succession and growth.”

“Even when challenges arise and one door closes, remember that there is always a new opportunity waiting to be found. Be open to new and exciting opportunities!”

One year later, I’ve found myself in a role that not only challenges and motivates me but also brings a deep sense of satisfaction and reward. Transitioning into the security field has proven to be one of the most fulfilling decisions I’ve made.

What was your first role in security, and did you ever imagine you would be where you are today?

I began my career as a Security Systems Coordinator, where I was responsible for managing the day-to-day processes within the Innovative Solutions department and liaising directly with customers and key stakeholders. My progression within the department has been fast-paced and full of valuable learning opportunities. While I believed I had the skills and experience to take the next step, I was pleased to be recognised early for my contributions and was subsequently promoted to Security Systems Account Manager.

Yes, particularly when I made the decision to change my career from education to security, it was both a confusing and exciting time in my life. However, it was exciting to reflect on my strengths and consider how I could transfer them into a new sector and role. The process challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, but it also allowed me to grow, adapt, and bring a fresh perspective to a different industry.

What do you enjoy most about your role within Innovative Solutions?

My role within the Innovative Solutions department is varied, engaging, and constantly evolving - no two days are ever the same, and there is always something new to learn. I particularly enjoy the customer relations aspect of the role, as it allows me to connect directly with our clients, understand their needs, manage expectations, and support their business projects effectively. This dynamic environment keeps me motivated and allows me to continuously develop both professionally and personally.

What

are you most proud of achieving as a

team so far?

Over the past year, our department has adapted and grown from strength to strength. We have worked on our internal processes and procedures, our relationship with clients/stakeholders and the internal CIS teams. It been lovely to watch all our hard work pay off, and I am excited to see what’s to come.

If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Even when challenges arise and one door closes, remember that there is always a new opportunity waiting to be found. Be open to new and exciting opportunities!

How do you see technology and human expertise working together in the future of our industry?

Technology is a tool that empowers people to work smarter and shouldn’t be seen as a replacement for the human expertise. Although the future of our industry will heavily rely on the integration of technology via apps, AI etc, human expertise will remain essential for interpretation, decision making and client relationships which is integral to our succession and growth.

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS

If you would like to know more you can request our Innovative Solutions Product Catalogue by contacting our Director of Innovative Solutions, Kuldeep Kainth. This document contains information on a range of recommended products that CIS supplies, installs, and maintains.

Kuldeep Kainth Director of Innovative Solutions

kuldeep.kainth@cis-security.co.uk

06. ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG)

The Shareholders of CIS Security Limited wish to provide a framework for supporting charitable activities within the communities that the business is operating.

In addition, there will be an opportunity to support colleagues who are in need or facing challenging circumstances.

Following over 56 Years of success in business the Shareholders wish to give back to society and its loyal colleagues.

CIS Donations:

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CHARITY

On the 5th September we recognised International Day of Charity, a timely reminder of the power of giving back and supporting the communities around us.

We truly believe that service excellence extends beyond our business to the positive impact we have on our customers, colleagues, and communities.

Through our CIS Citizenship Trust, we are proud and humbled to have supported a wide range of initiatives, organisations and local events. Every act of support can make a difference. Through our Trust, we are reminded that everyone has the power to contribute to their community whether through time, resources, or simply showing up.

No gesture is too small.

Coming Together for a Great Cause – Macmillan Coffee Morning at CIS Security

Earlier this month, our Head Office team at CIS came together for Macmillan Cancer Support’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, a fantastic opportunity to connect, share stories, and raise funds for an incredible cause.

The first Coffee Morning began in 1990 with a simple idea: enjoy a cup of coffee with friends and donate the cost to Macmillan. Today, it’s a nationwide movement supporting over 3.5 million people in the UK living with cancer.

At CIS, we’re proud to play our part. Our teams at Lewisham and Gracechurch offices brewed the coffee, baked (and enjoyed!) delicious cakes, and came together in solidarity and generosity. No matter how small, every contribution helps Macmillan provide vital practical, emotional, and financial support to those who need it most.

A huge thank you to everyone who baked, donated, and joined. Your kindness makes a difference!

If you’d like to support the cause click on the link below to donate: https://lnkd.in/ey3HhTgt

COSMIC DRAGON BOAT RACE

Our incredible Team had an unforgettable day at the Cosmic Dragon Boat Race 2025 at Merchant Square, Paddington. What a fantastic turnout it was!

Our team loved every minute of it. Huge smiles, team spirit, and some seriously competitive paddling made for a fabulous day all round. We may not have taken gold, but the team gave it their all.

Most importantly, it was all for an incredible cause. COSMIC supports critically ill babies and children at St Mary’s and Queen Charlotte’s Hospitals, and your support makes a real difference.

There is still time to donate and help reach the fundraising goal: https://lnkd.in/eAfGfnF6

A huge thank you to Merchant Square, Paddington and all the organisers for hosting such a fun, meaningful, and well-run event. We were proud to be part of it.

A huge well done Team CIS for raising £2000 for COSMIC.

CIS WEARING IT PINK!

On the 24th October, our colleagues across CIS proudly took part in ‘Wear It Pink Day’ to support Breast Cancer Now, a charity dedicated to supporting those affected by breast cancer. Breast cancer affects so many lives, but together we can make a difference. Thanks to ongoing research, care and early detection, survival rates have doubled in the past 50 years.

Your support helps keep that progress going.

A big thank you to everyone for getting involved and donating.

You can support the cause here, by clicking on the link below to donate: https://securepay.breastcancernow.org/

EXCITING ESG ANNOUNCEMENT

CIS understands the importance of sustainability when delivering our service. We have invested within our ESG department to grow our dedicated ESG subject matter experts.

Emerence stated:

“Hello, my name is Emerence and I am a recent zoology graduate from the University of Glasgow, with a passion for environmental issues and sustainable development. I look forward to working with Jordy on ESG implementation throughout CIS Security and help the company advance in a way that promotes positive change regarding people and the planet. Please do not hesitate to reach out, I am excited to meet the friendly faces this company is built upon”.

Emerence Sepulchre de Solieres ESG Analyst

Sepulchre

Solieres, ESG Analyst, and Jordi Mukudi, ESG Manager.

CIS DONATION

CIS were proud to donate our office mascot, the giant bear (Patricia) to the Children’s Wing at Lewisham Hospital, with the agreement that Lewisham Hospitals Children’s Ward will hold a raffle to give Patricia a brand-new loving home. As you can see, she has already made herself at home at Lewisham Hospital!

All proceeds from the raffle will go to Lewisham Hospitals Children’s Ward.

CIS ANNUAL ESG REPORT

At CIS we continue to strengthen our sustainability approach. In the years to come we are determined to achieve our net-zero pledge.

USE THE LINK BELOW TO VIEW OUR ESG REPORT

07. HEALTH AND SAFETY

COMMON PPE MISTAKES IN THE WORKPLACE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is integral to workplace safety, yet with an estimated 9,000 PPE-related accidents each year, something is failing. What are the common mistakes, and how can you correct them?

Consequences of PPE mistakes

Making errors with personal protective equipment (PPE) can have severe consequences, including increased injury or illness risks, lower productivity, enforcement action and reputational damage. You can face legal repercussions for failing to provide adequate PPE and enforcing its use.

Reasons for mistakes by staff

Using inappropriate PPE. Staff may be unaware of the hazard and so use the wrong pro-tection, e.g. dust rather than vapour masks. Tip. Raise awareness of workplace hazards and ensure workers employ the correct PPE for each situation.

STUART BATEMAN DPO, SHEQ MANAGER

Staff may wear PPE incorrectly for various reasons. We take a look at what can go wrong and how you can remedy the situation, including:

Uncomfortable or poorly fitting PPE. This can discourage employees from wearing it correctly. Tip. Engage staff in PPE selection and provide comfortable, appropriately sized PPE options and address concerns regarding gear discomfort.

Misunderstanding of risks. Some staff may underestimate the risks involved or not fully comprehend the importance of wearing PPE correctly. Tip. Train staff on the hazards they are exposed to and stress the importance of using suitable PPE for each undertaking.

Non-compliance or laziness. Staff may intentionally wear PPE incorrectly due to non-compliance with safety regulations or taking shortcuts. Tip. Ensure adequate training and supervision is provided and address rule-breaking promptly.

Using damaged or expired PPE. Staff may feel their PPE has been “broken in” but it could be at risk as it may be damaged. Tip. Regularly inspect PPE for damage, expiry dates and wear and tear. Instruct staff to replace equipment when necessary.

Failing to clean or maintain PPE. Dirty or poor condition PPE could lessen its effective-ness. Tip. Train workers in cleaning and maintenance guidelines to make sure equipment is effective. Make sure you provide adequate storage.

Employer contribution to the errors

There may be organisational factors that play a part in enabling staff to use PPE incorrect-ly, including:

Lack of training. Staff may not receive adequate training on the correct use and fitting of PPE. Tip. Ensure workers understand which equipment is appropriate for specific haz-ards and train them on how to wear, clean and store it correctly.

Equipment availability. If the right PPE is not readily available or easily accessible, em-ployees may resort to using whatever is to hand, even if it is not suitable. Tip. Make sure that the necessary PPE is readily available at various workstations and locations to elimi-nate barriers to proper usage.

Non-compliant wearing. If you tolerate rule breaking when it comes to PPE, e.g. wearing a high-visibility jacket tied around the waist, then you are condoning its incorrect use. Tip. Implement strict guidelines and consequences for noncompliance so staff use PPE correctly.

Lack of regular inspections. This can allow bad habits to slip in. Tip. Conduct routine in-spections to verify that employees are wearing PPE correctly and address any issues promptly.

Common PPE mistakes include using inappropriate or damaged equipment. Reduce these errors through collaboration between you and your workers, thorough training on the importance of PPE, how to wear it correctly, etc., thereby protecting staff and your business from costly accidents or ill health.

Safety

documentation must be understood, not just signed

Many employers ask their staff to read and sign safety documentation. But what’s the purpose and value of this signature? What benefit does it have and what may be the consequences if they don’t sign?

Sign your life away?

Imagine this, it’s the first week of a new job. Your employee has been handed risk assess-ments, policies and other procedural documents. You’ve asked them to sign to agree that they’ve read the documentation before they commence work activities. They read through the documentation, attempt to make sense of the content and reluctantly sign. This is not uncommon. Employees can often experience information overload with read-ing and signing documentation during their induction period. But what purpose does a signature serve and who does it benefit?

Reading versus understanding

Many employers consider a signature a record of a person’s acceptance to work in a cer-tain way. Some treat it as a record of employees being informed of hazards and the ways in which risks are being managed. An employer may feel a signature helps to encourage employee engagement and ownership of health and safety responsibilities. And for many, a signature is seen as a record of a person’s understanding of a process.

Awareness only

But a signature should purely be treated as a record that employees were made aware of the presence of documentation; a simple record of who got what information and when. Risk assessments and other relevant safety documentation shouldn’t simply be consid-ered as paperwork which must be read, but as critical information which must be under-stood. Reading is necessary, but not usually solely sufficient to gain an understanding of something.

Whilst some readers do actively engage in making sense of content as they read, for most, reading is just a process of passively extracting and (hopefully) absorbing information. Reading helps someone explore material but its effectiveness can be limited; a person may be tired, stressed or even overloaded with too much to read for their brain to effectively comprehend. Reading a document should provide a person with the mate-rials which they can then use to gain a further or full comprehension of something. This is very different to understanding.

Understanding is the ability to take that read material, grasp the content, infer, decode and critically evaluate the information before applying it in context. If asking employees to sign to confirm they have read documentation, does this help reduce risk? Tip. Change your mindset and treat a signature as a read receipt. Evaluate understanding via strate-gies that test a person’s knowledge beyond just written words.

Evaluating understanding

How can understanding be tested? You should create a process that can confirm, not only that an employee has read a document, but has made sense of it. Tip. A mixture of techniques such as questioning, peer-to-peer training, tests, quizzes, briefings, observations, etc. can be used, e.g:

f Have employees ask each other questions about the content of documentation to gauge their understanding

f Encourage employees to draw a visual representation of their understanding of a topic

f Give an employee a subject matter and ask them to write a short response in a predetermined amount of time, e.g. five minutes

f Ask employees to write a reflective summary of their understanding of a subject

f Ask them to demonstrate a process so you can establish whether they have

f understood the safe system of work and can put it into practice.

Asking employees to read and sign safety documentation can have limited impact. Signa-tures, typically, should only be treated as read receipts, not as a record of a person’s un-derstanding. Comprehension and competence has to be evaluated by various tech-niques. e.g. a validation test, which a signature in isolation cannot provide.

SAFETY PROCEDURES - LOADING BAYS

We would like to draw your attention to a recent and tragic incident that highlights the critical importance of following safety procedures in and around our loading bays and high-traffic areas.

A grocery wholesaler was recently fined £1 million after a worker was tragically killed by a reversing HGV. You can read the full article here: Grocery wholesaler fined £1 million after worker killed by reversing HGV – HSE Media Centre.

This sad incident is a stark reminder of why we must never become complacent about safety, especially in environments with frequent vehicle movement.

Please take a moment to review and reinforce the following safety measures with your teams:

f Always use designated pedestrian walkways, never cut across vehicle routes.

f Reversing vehicles must be guided by a trained banksman, no exceptions.

f Hi-vis jackets or vests should be worn in all loading bays and high traffic areas.

f Physical barriers and signage must be in place where necessary and visible.

f Communication between drivers and loading bay teams is essential before any vehicle movement.

f Pre-shift safety checks should be completed and documented without fail.

f Never approach a vehicle without making eye contact with the driver and confirming visibility.

f If frequently operating in a busy loading bay or high traffic area, steel-toed footwear should be worn at all times.

For more guidance on this topic, please follow the links below:

f Reversing - HSE

f Loading areas - HSE

f 6 Tips For Maintaining a Safe & Productive Loading Bay

Prevention is better than a cure. Let’s stay alert and make sure that no shortcuts are ever taken.

Every person on site is responsible for safety; your actions protect lives.

LOADING BAY SAFETY TIPS

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EVENT & BUSINESS MANAGER

1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Every single pound you donate makes a difference to Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work.

Event name: Shine Night Walk London 10K 2025 (Cancer Research UK)

Event date: 20/09/2025

Event address:

Battersea Park, Battersea Park Road, London, SW11 4NJ

Start time*: 20:00 (16,743 Steps) from Sloane Square to Buckingham Palace.

Duration: 02:22:41

Team Name: Moon Walkers - My Sister, Neice and Cousins for the loved ones who fought the big fight

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“I think that we will go for the Half Marathon Walk next year!”

Sam Stewart

A huge well done to Sam and her team, a great cause!

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HEAD OF SECURITY AT 40 LEADENHALL

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A huge well done Andrew!

Proud past. Strong future

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Doing it is simple! Get them to view our company website and apply on-line for any positions that are suited to them, stating CIS Employee and your name in recruitment source.

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7th March 1995 - 23rd July 2025

Gary was a beloved CIS Colleague who will be greatly missed.

In Mourning. in Memory. In Peace.