Professional Progression… Meet Becky Pickles!

In the next chapter of our Professional Progression blog series, we introduce you to Becky Pickles! Becky is currently our SOC & Scheduling Manager, and she has given us an insight into her time over the past 6 years at Professional Security.

 

• How did you initially get into security? What made you want to work in the industry?

I started off my career in security when my Auntie Georgina told me she worked at Professional Security as a Payroll Manager at the time.  She said it was a fast-paced environment which is what I was looking for, so I sent in the application! I worked previously with horses as a groom and a showjumper and that’s such a fast-paced role, so I wanted my job to reflect this.

 

• Give an overview of your time at Professional. What role did you start in?

I started off as a Vetting Officer in 2018. From there, I moved into the admin team doing a variety of things such as looking after our fleet and sorting out the uniform. I then moved into Solutions starting as Crew, then moving to Team Leader, then to Project Lead, then Chief and I am now the SOC & Scheduling Manager… So, I have certainly moved through the ranks over the years you could say!

 

• Give an overview of your role at Professional. What do you do on a day-to-day basis?

My current role is to ensure the day to day running of the SOC. The SOC is an integral and rapidly growing aspect of our security service, supporting technology and data led solutions for our clients nationwide. Along with that I also look after one of our largest hospitality clients. I am very close with my team; I always ensure I’m preforming regular 1-1 meetings and helping their progress.

 

• Were you aware of the career progression opportunities available in the industry?

At first, I wasn’t aware that there were progression opportunities in the industry. However, in Professional Security there has always been opportunities to progress and grow in all areas of the business.

 

• What has been the most enjoyable aspect of your career in security so far?

The most enjoyable part of my career in security so far is being given responsibility for  large-scale contracts, especially when I have received positive feedback. I also love working in a fast-paced environment where there is always something new to tackle so this role is perfect for me.

 

• What’s the best career advice you have been given?

The best advice I have been given throughout my time in security is ‘pause, think, react’. This has enabled me to deal with challenging situations much better than I would’ve previously.

 

• What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is currently working on the frontline who are looking to progress in the industry?

My advice would be to keep putting yourself out there, put the hard work in and constantly ask questions!

 

• Tell us a surprising fact about you!

During my time traveling the world with the horses, i ended up in a private party with Nicole Scherzinger & Robbie Williams at Mr Glock’s house in Austria. Also, when visiting my dad in Thailand I ended up been an extra in Blake Lively’s film The Shallow.