Bidvest Noonan

A market leading provider of facilities services and solutions

security

Modernising security solutions through custom-built mapping systems

At Bidvest Noonan we are always looking for new ways to push technological boundaries to improve the way we deliver our security services.

Working with our security suppliers we devised a custom-built solution which encompasses every aspect of security that can be implemented at any location. From patrol routes to incident management, we have a system that gathers all of our data and presents it to our customers and their teams in an easy-to-view format, whenever they need to access it.

What was once all put onto paper, we have transferred it to digital formats. Our officers have handheld devices that they can use to log incidents, report dangers or submit anything related to security.

This data is then fed into the system to create reports and heat maps to highlight areas that may need a higher security presence or an area of interest for the future.

Features include:

  • Real-time data
  • Customisable categories for incidents
  • All information stored in the cloud
  • Media upload to build evidence for each data point
  • Filtered analysis through type/location/reporter
  • Trend mapping and future planning

The data and visual reports we produce allow us to be more proactive than ever before. We can follow up on current trends and resolve security issues before they can escalate into anything more serious.

By creating these solutions we are helping our clients to modernise their security service so they can manage their custom-built solutions on the go, anywhere in the world.

Jeff Flanagan named CEO of Bidvest Noonan in Great Britain

We are delighted to announce our appointment of Jeff Flanagan as Chief Executive Officer for our business in Great Britain. Jeff is a highly accomplished business leader with more than 25 years of senior executive experience in the facilities services industry.

Jeff succeeds Charlotte Marshall, who has decided to step down as CEO to pursue other interests. During her time at Bidvest Noonan, Charlotte oversaw the successful integration of Cordant Services and the Axis group, restructured the business, and built a highly experienced leadership team.

Jeff joins us at a key point in our history. Our business has doubled in size in recent years to become a market leader for services such as cleaning and security across the UK and Ireland. Over the past 18 months, we invested considerably to enhance the support we deliver to customers; we launched three strategic business units, made a number of senior executive investment hires and rolled out a new customer experience programme.

Bidvest Noonan Group CEO Declan Doyle said, “ I’m delighted to welcome Jeff to the Bidvest Noonan family. Jeff has a wealth of industry experience, an impressive track record and outstanding leadership skills. Jeff is an excellent fit for Bidvest Noonan. I’m confident he will be very successful.

I want to thank Charlotte for all the work she has done. Charlotte has made a very significant contribution to our business. We appreciate the support she has provided to transition Jeff into his new role.”

Commenting on his appointment, Jeff said, “I’m delighted to have joined Bidvest Noonan as CEO. Having worked in our industry for over two decades, I know Bidvest Noonan is an exceptional business. Bidvest Noonan’s Credo, people-first culture, and commitment to delivering outstanding customer experiences set it apart in the market.

I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues, some of whom I’ve known for many years, to support our customers and grow our business.”

Susan Howard has been promoted to Operations Director for Healthcare

Bidvest Noonan has strengthened its Irish senior management team with the recent promotion of Susan Howard to Operations Director for Healthcare.

Susan, who joined the firm in 2003, has deep expertise and knowledge of the healthcare sector and will enhance the service and value delivered to clients. In her new role, Susan takes ownership of Bidvest Noonan’s national healthcare portfolio in Ireland, covering both cleaning and security services.

Speaking on her promotion, Susan said: “I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to lead our healthcare operations for our business in Ireland. I look forward to building on the platform the business has created in recent years and ensuring we have the expertise available to support all of our clients.”

Managing Director, Anthony Harman commented: “I am delighted that Susan has took up the role as Operations Director for our healthcare division. The need for a clean and safe environment in the healthcare sector is more important than ever before, and I have no doubt Susan is the right person to lead both our cleaning and security teams. With an experienced team around her and long-standing relationships with clients across Ireland, I have no doubt her tenure will be a success.”

The appointment follows Bidvest Noonan’s ongoing investment in its healthcare operations. Last year, the organisation appointed Emma Power as its Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) Specialist to further develop its subject matter expertise in the sector.

Sarah Cork – Principles for a successful career in security

Sarah Cork, Director of Operations at Bidvest Noonan, held senior security roles at a number of retailers and has broad experience including cyber, physical security, operational, intelligence, and investigations. She is an associate member of the ICA and holds diplomas in financial crime and anti-money laundering. 

Sarah was nominated as a finalist for the Women in Security Awards 2021 and told us about what has helped her to forge a successful career.

What does being a finalist in ‘Women in Security Awards’ mean to you?

Just being nominated has meant the world and made me feel very valued within the industry and I am grateful for all the coaching and mentoring I have had over the last 25 years from my colleagues, peers, friends, and family. It has been very rewarding to receive recognition for my career to date and I am immensely proud to be a finalist in 2021.

Tell us about how your broad experience has contributed to your nomination.

The experiences operating in senior roles have allowed me to gain knowledge and an understanding of how security operates in different sectors and now that I am offering the service back to clients, it allows us to enhance our service offering and deliver more than client’s expectations.

The security industry is becoming more and more diverse and inclusive. However more work has to be done. Do you have any tips for women in the security industry?

Businesses should allow you to be your “whole self”, no matter your gender, and believe in your own ability whilst identifying your own personal goals and objectives to deliver what you want from your career. 

My knowledge, skill, and capability have seen me as an equal in the security industry and fortunately, I have had many coaches and mentors who have supported me in my journey. 

Each one of us personally brings something unique and we need to challenge ourselves to be better the next day. My advice for all women is ‘take the seat at the table and ensure they know your worth’.

In your opinion, how does diversity impact the business?

I like working with a diverse team as this brings the best for the company ethos and bottom-line profits. I would like to see the gender gap reduced in all industries and empower all women to take their own seat at the table.

I personally enjoy wearing many different hats and juggling a home and work-life balance. However, this comes with great organisation and many to-do lists to achieve being a Mum, Wife and enjoying my career. 

What lessons can you share as a leader? 

Accept when you make a mistake and be honest whilst learning and ensuring it is never repeated. It is what makes you a credible professional. 

Make yourself available to listen to people’s views, network, and take learnings from others.

Strive to be better every day and be innovative in your thinking whilst creating business strategy, tactical plans, and most of all, execution of strategy. 

What advice do you have for people aiming for leadership positions in the security industry? 

Be passionate, work hard and be determined to chase your next career role. Set yourself short-term goals and celebrate your achievements along the way. Build strong relationships internally and externally and network with security professionals that allow you to learn whilst growing your knowledge and skill.

Joining the security industry from the Police by Paul Considine

Paul Considine, Head of Security and Contingency for one of our iconic client sites in London, has an impressive 30-year career with the Metropolitan Police. In an article for ThisWeekinFM, Paul discusses his journey from investigating serious crime to leading a team of over 50 security officers in central London for Bidvest Noonan.

In 2020, Considine was appointed as Head of Security and Contingency for one of Bidvest Noonan’s iconic client sites. He joined after an impressive 30-year career with the Metropolitan police working his way up from PC, to Serious and Organised Crime Command, homicide investigations and Hostage and Crisis Negotiator.

How Did Your Career in the Police Begin?

I joined the Met Police in 1990 and spent five years in uniform as a PC, learning my craft and providing immediate response to critical incidents and managing a range of operational activities. I was then transferred to detective duties having demonstrated an eye for detail and observation. Detective responsibilities included initial investigative planning and strategy setting, pursuing lines of enquiry, completion of case papers, to presenting evidence at Crown Court.

Upon promotion, I led teams of detectives, overseeing a wide range of cases from fraud and acquisitive offences through to violent crime and sexual offences.

You Spent 30 Years in Law Enforcement. Were There Other Positions You Took up During This Time?

I was selected to join the Serious and Organised Crime Command where I held several roles and secured numerous promotions. Responsibilities included leading covert surveillance operations and proactively dismantling firearm-enabled Organised Crime Groups.

For ten years, I led homicide investigations across London and Internationally. Responsibilities included prioritising lines of enquiry and devising analytical and innovative investigative strategies whilst working closely with community stakeholders.

I also volunteered as a Hostage and Crisis Negotiator for several years where I primarily provided crisis intervention for those with mental health issues. This work was incredibly rewarding and often involved my deployment to sites across London to negotiate and support vulnerable individuals who were threatening suicide.

“I have always enjoyed being challenged and was keen to choose an industry that would continue to challenge me and allow me to use the skills honed over 30 years. The security industry seemed an obvious fit on the basis that I would be identifying and mitigating risk, building and maintaining professional relationships and leading a team.”

Why Did You Look to Security as a Possible Career Option?

I saw an opportunity to seek out a second vocation and decided to retire from the police service.

If I am honest, it was not something I was looking forward to with much relish as I joined the police straight from school and a career change seemed daunting. I have always enjoyed being challenged and was keen to choose an industry that would continue to challenge me and allow me to use the skills honed over 30 years. The security industry seemed an obvious fit on the basis that I would be identifying and mitigating risk, building and maintaining professional relationships and leading a team.

Why Bidvest Noonan?

I spoke with several security professionals who were keen to assist me in my career transition. However, it wasn’t until I met with a Bidvest Noonan Director and the wider team that I was ready to fully commit to leaving the Metropolitan Police.

I was impressed from the outset at the Bidvest Noonan setup and ethos, and I was aware that the company provided security to several iconic buildings and estates across London. It was clear to me that the company was both dynamic and ambitious, and I immediately wanted to be part of it.

What is Your Role and Responsibilities at Bidvest Noonan?

I was delighted to secure my position as Head of Security & Contingency in April 2021 at one of London’s most exciting and innovative new destinations.

Since commencing my post, my feet have not touched the ground. I manage a team of over 50 security professionals and together we are responsible for keeping the estate safe whilst making it a welcoming place for all those that use it, and ensuring we meet client and occupiers’ high expectations.”

Is There Anything You Particularly Like About Your Role?

It has been a steep but enjoyable learning curve made easier by the support offered and provided by peers, managers and support staff. I’m most looking forward to developing my team, identifying talent and assisting them as they progress in their security careers.

Have There Been Any Key Learnings From Your Time in the Role so Far?

The client and occupiers of the building have very high expectations, and meeting them all is often challenging. Fire alarm systems and the security response is not something I have dealt with before. I’ve been impressed with the level of detail in correlating standard operating procedures (SOP) and have enjoyed learning something new.

What Would You Say to Someone Thinking of Looking to Start a Career in Security?

Do it! I am still in the infancy of my security career but I am thoroughly enjoying it.

I am very grateful to Bidvest Noonan for the opportunity and look forward to enhancing my reputation as a security professional and the reputation of the company which to date I have been hugely impressed by.

Article written by Ella Tansley from TwinFM