Interview with Mark Boyd – Head of Operations, Northeast

• Mark, can you tell us about the scale of Professional Security’s operations in Newcastle?

Newcastle is one of our largest portfolios, with over 79 venues under our protection. These range from high-profile nightlife venues like Tup Tup Palace and Jalou, to casual dining brands like McDonald’s, KFC and Turtle Bay, through to hotels, competitive socialising venues, and major events such as the Newcastle United fan zones (The Stack, Sheepfolds) and Newcastle Racecourse. We also provide specialist cover for the Great North Run, working with elite athletes and hospitality partners. Altogether, we deliver over 3,900 hours of security coverage each week, rising to 5,500 hours during peak periods, such as race days and student events.

• What are some of the biggest challenges Newcastle presents compared to other cities?

Newcastle is a student-driven, football-focused city, which means demand can fluctuate massively across the year. During football season and term time, it’s incredibly busy, but things quieten down in summer when students leave. Recruitment is another big challenge. Finding quality door supervisors is tough, especially with fewer young people entering the industry. We also deal with antisocial behaviour in quick service restaurants, like McDonald’s, and city centre issues such as begging and street crime. All of these require strong safeguarding and conflict management.

• How do you and your team manage such a wide and demanding operation?

The key is a combination of experience and visibility. I’ve been in the security industry for over 23 years since leaving the Army, including senior risk roles with Poundworld and One Below. That background helps me understand both operational pressures and client expectations. Alongside me, we have a strong management structure: Jordan Johnston as Ops Manager, Area Managers Scott Hempsey and Chris Beeby, and our City Supervisor, Seun Peter Oladinni. Together, we carry out weekly walk-throughs, client meetings, and hands-on support to make sure standards never drop.

• Newcastle has a reputation as a vibrant but sometimes challenging nightlife city. How do you work with partners to keep it safe?

Collaboration is absolutely critical. We’re part of the Joint Engagement Group with the council, police, transport agencies and universities – and we’re proud to say we’re the only security company at the table. That gives us a voice in shaping city-wide safety policy, whether that’s addressing sexual harassment, tackling antisocial behaviour or planning for major events. Steve Howe, our Client Relationship Director, also sits on the National Pubwatch Committee, which works directly with licensees, local authorities and the police to create safer environments.

• What would you say sets Professional Security apart in Newcastle?

It comes down to our experience and adaptability. Between myself, Steve and the wider leadership team, we bring decades of knowledge in hospitality and security, and we understand the pressures our clients face on the ground. We’ve built a model that combines robust training, technology and a flexible deployment structure that allows us to scale up for peak events. Most importantly, we’re present and engaged – our management team is on the ground the majority of the week, supporting staff and clients directly. That visibility and responsiveness really set us apart.