Behind the Badge: Lashan Willis

March 4, 2026

Calculating...

From Corporate to Frontline

Lashan Willis has been part of the Professional Security team for almost six months, having earned her SIA badge in August. While she’s still relatively new to the industry, she’s already found her footing in the fast-paces world of frontline security.

The role of a Door Supervisor, Lashan spent several years working in corporate environments. But over time, she realised the routine of office life wasn’t where she felt most energised.

“I was tired of working corporate jobs and wanted a bit more freedom. Security fit my personality”

For Lashan, the move into security wasn’t just a change of job, it was shift into something that felt more authentic to who she is. The dynamic environment, the variety of venues, and the opportunity to work face-to-face with people every shift gave her exactly the challenge and independence she was looking for.

And it didn’t take long for her to realise she’d made the right decision.

A Natural on the Frontline

In a role where no two nights are the same, Lashan quickly developed a reputation for her calm, confident approach.

At the heart of her style is a simple principle:

“I treat people how I would want to be treated, so I’m really good at defusing situations.”

Door supervision often requires quick judgement, emotional intelligence, and the ability to read situations before they escalate. Lashan believes these instincts are some of the strengths that women can bring to the role.

While she hasn’t faced any major challenges so far, she regularly encounters high-pressure moments, particularly when tensions rise inside busy venues.

“When there’s fights, I find I’m very good at de-escalating situations. I feel like being a female has its advantages; you get a bit more respect.”

Lashan believes that women in security often bring a tactical, calm approach to conflict resolution, something that can prevent situations from escalating further.

Building a Reputation

For Lashan, success in the role isn’t measured by awards or recognition, it’s about the reputation she builds shift after shift.

Working across multiple venues across Leeds means interacting with different teams, managers, and customers every week. And for Lashan, the feedback she receives is what matters most.

“I get recognised positively and never get complaints at venues because I actually enjoy my job.”

That enthusiasm is something people notice. Enjoying the work, staying professional, and treating people fairly has helped her quickly establish herself as someone venues trust.

Advice to Women Considering Security

With women currently representing only a small percentage of the security workforce, Lashan is passionate about encouraging more women to consider the industry.

Her advice is simple:

“Don’t be afraid to get stuck in! The industry needs more females.”

She believes women often bring a different dynamic to frontline security, one that can make a real difference when it comes to managing situations calmly and effectively.

“It’s easier for us to defuse situations. We’re not immediately seen as a bully and that can really help.”

As the industry continues to evolve, voices like Lashan’s highlight the value of greater diversity on the frontline.

Busting the Myths

There’s one common misconception about women in security that Lashan finds particularly amusing.

“People always think females are soft . When it’s time to get physical, all jokes aside… I will remove the person!”

It’s a reminder that professionalism in security comes in many forms. Strength, confidence, and composure all play a role.

Lashan demonstrates every shift that women in security are more than capable of handling whatever comes their way.