Professional Progression… Meet Alex Bottomley!

In the next edition of our “Professional Progression” series, we are excited to share Alex’s journey at professional.

• How did you get into working for a security company? And what made you want to work at professional?

I’ve always believed every experience teaches something valuable, and my career reflects that. My journey started in 2016 when I worked at McDonald’s while in college, progressing to manager. Later, I joined HMPPS as a prison officer, but the lack of work-life balance and growth opportunities led me to seek a change.

In November 2023, my fiancé, Kevin Flynn, an area manager at Professional Security, encouraged me to join. Starting as a door supervisor, I drew on my customer service and leadership skills. Positive feedback from venue managers soon led to a promotion as team leader at Box Park. By November 2024, I became the Northwest Area Manager, a role I’m incredibly passionate about.

• Give an overview of your role at professional. What do you do on a daily basis?

As area manager, I oversee venues across the M6 route, ensuring operations run smoothly, interviewing new staff, meeting with clients, and conducting door supervisor audits. The variety in my role keeps me energized, and I enjoy interacting with staff and clients daily.

I joined Professional Security because of its professionalism and growth potential. My background in hospitality and uniformed services prepared me to contribute meaningfully, and the company has provided me with incredible opportunities for advancement.

•  Were you aware of the career opportunity’s available in the industry when you first started?

When I first started, I knew progression was possible—Kevin’s quick rise to area manager showed me that. However, I never imagined I’d progress so quickly myself. I’m thrilled with the journey so far.

• What’s the most enjoyable aspect of your role at professional?

I would say the most enjoyable aspect of the job is the fact there is something different each day and I’m constantly learning new skills and taking on new challenges every day. I also enjoy interacting with clients and staff and constantly providing a great service for clients. I also still love the chance I get to work on a venue as I do love being a door supervisor also as its the constant interaction with members of the public.

• what’s the best career advice you’ve ever been given?

The best career advice I’ve received came from my McDonald’s manager, Laura: “Set a target, focus on it, and don’t give up. Always strive to be a better version of yourself.” This mindset has been my guiding principle, and I encourage anyone aspiring to progress to do the same. Learn from others, ask questions, and give your best.

• what’s one piece of advice you would give someone who is currently working on the frontline and is wanting to progress?

I have two pieces of advice,

Learn from others I always look at someone above me who for example while i was a door supervisor wanting to progress, I learnt from Kevin Flynn who was my AM at the time I would constantly ask questions and ask to be shown how to do things in order to gain knowledge for the job I wanted to progress too.

• Tell me one surprising fact about you.

A fun fact about me? I used to be a baby model for Tesco and Matalan—a surprising start for someone now thriving in the security industry!