Professional Progression… Meet Chris Taylor!

Professional Progression Chris at Professional Security

In the latest edition of our Professional Progression Chris feature, we’re excited to share Chris’ journey at Professional Security and his progression into a newly created Business Development role. With years of experience in the night-time economy, Chris brings valuable insight, honesty, and passion to the security industry.

This story forms part of our wider Professional Progression series, where we highlight the people behind the business and the career paths available within Professional Security. (Internal link: Professional Progression series page)

Professional Progression Chris: From Nightlife to Security

Chris has spent most of his working life involved in the night-time economy. Starting out at a young age running nightclubs, managing security teams was always a key part of his role.

Over time, as his passion for the nightlife industry began to fade (along with his hairline), transitioning into security felt like the natural next step. Having previously worked with Professional Security as a client, Chris had already built strong relationships within the company.

After years of working the doors himself while running other businesses during the day, moving into the security industry full-time simply made sense.

Professional Progression Chris at Professional Security: His Role

Chris currently works as Business Development Manager, a role that is new to both him and the company. This makes it an exciting challenge, with a strong focus on growth, relationships, and reputation.

His day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Conducting online research to identify new business opportunities

• Attending networking events and meeting prospective clients

• Carrying out joint site visits with the operations team

• Following up meetings with emails and documentation

• Preparing and sending client proposals

• Tracking progress through HubSpot and internal systems

• Contributing to team meetings and wider strategy sessions

Although it may not sound thrilling on paper, no two days are the same, which is exactly what Chris enjoys most about the role.

Learn more about how our teams work together here. (Internal link: Meet the Team / Leadership page)

Career Opportunities in the Security Industry

When Chris first entered the industry, he wasn’t aware of the wide range of career opportunities available. Like hospitality, the security industry can carry an unfair stigma and is often not viewed as a “real job”.

However, the reality is very different. The industry demands resilience, adaptability, and strong people skills. It can be challenging, dangerous, and often thankless, yet the impact security professionals have is significant.

Chris believes initiatives such as apprenticeship programmes, alongside new training and qualifications, are helping to shift perceptions and give the industry the recognition it deserves. (Internal link: Careers at Professional Security)

What Chris Enjoys Most About Working at Professional Security

For Chris, the best part of the role is the variety. The Business Development Manager position constantly pushes him outside of his comfort zone, encouraging learning, adaptation, and growth.

However, it’s the people that truly stand out — especially the Door Supervisors on the ground.

Seeing photos of the DS teams displayed around the business was a powerful reminder that many of these individuals have faced dangerous situations and, in some cases, saved lives without ever receiving recognition.

They keep people safe every day, often without thanks. In Chris’ eyes, they are everyday heroes.

Best Career Advice Chris Has Received

One of the most impactful pieces of career advice Chris has come across compares people to a bottle of water:

A bottle of water costs £2 in a shop, £3 at a station, £5 at an airport, and £7 on a plane — the product is the same, only the environment changes.

The message is simple: if you feel undervalued, you may just be in the wrong place.

Advice for Frontline Staff Looking to Progress

Chris’ advice to anyone working on the frontline and wanting to progress is clear: learn, train, and upskill wherever possible.

The more skills you develop, the more valuable you become. Adding more “strings to your bow” increases the likelihood that someone will need you — and recognise your potential.

A Surprising Fact About Chris

Most people wouldn’t guess it, but Chris is covered in Japanese-themed tattoos, including a full back piece.

Bonus fact: he’s also very good at accents and impressions. If he hears one for long enough, he can usually replicate it with impressive accuracy — a skill that certainly keeps the team entertained.

This Professional Progression Chris story highlights the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and personalities that make up Professional Security