Photos Credit: Security Institute

The Security Institute proudly hosted its first-ever Celebrating and Elevating Women in Security Conference on 5 March at Goodenough House, London. The sold-out event brought together a diverse audience of seasoned security professionals and emerging talent, all united in their commitment to advancing the role of women within the security sector.

 A highlight of the conference was a keynote address by Anne Keast-Butler, Director of GCHQ, whose speech covered critical topics, including national security, the vital contributions of women in the field, and the challenges and triumphs of balancing a high-profile career with family life. Sharing her journey as a mother of three, Keast-Butler served as an inspiring role model for attendees, demonstrating security leadership while embracing personal aspirations.

 Attendees praised her address as “aspirational” and “an empowering call to action for women at all stages of their careers.” Another said the address proves that, “ambition and family life can go hand in hand in our industry.”

The conference also featured an outstanding lineup of speakers and panellists, all dedicated to fostering dialogue and action on gender diversity and professional development within the security profession. Among them were keynote speakers Anne Keast-Butler, Director of GCHQ, Jane Frankland MBE, CEO of Knewstart, Michelle Russell, CEO of the Security Industry Authority (SIA), and James Bore CSyP MSyI, Managing Director of Bores Group Ltd. The event was excellently compered by Rachel Webb CSyP MSyI, Managing Director of The Keyholding Company.

Panel discussions featured esteemed professionals such as Sarah Austerberry CSyP FSyI MLitt, an NPSA Representative, Stuart Frost BEM FSyI, Kate Davies OBE, Kate Bright CSyP MSyI FRSA, Lydia Walmsley, Michael Coppard, Jasmine Palmer-Garrick, Stacey Snook, Julie Nel MA FSyI, Anne Marie Chebib BA (Hons) PGDip, Ruth Ripley, Iwona Kossek, Hayley Elvins CSyP FSyI, Chris Stevens CSyP MSc F.ISRM FSyI, and Smita Niranjan CSMP® M.ISMI®.

Julie Nel MA FSyI, Chair of The Security Institute, commented on the event’s success:
“We are incredibly proud to have launched this conference, which underscores our commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in security. The energy in the room was palpable, and it was truly inspiring to witness such a dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences. Anne Keast-Butler’s presence and speech were an undeniable highlight, reinforcing the message that women can—and do—thrive in security at the highest levels.”

Additionally, The Security Institute's CEO, Prof. Simon Hepburn MA MCMI FRSA, announced the Institute’s ongoing commitment to Safeguarding Women and Girls. This initiative includes a dedicated section on their website that brings together like-minded organisations working in this field, including the Internet Watch Foundation, Ask for Angela, Stamp Out Spiking, The National Domestic Abuse Helpline, and the National Bullying Helpline. This initiative highlights The Security Institute’s proactive stance in supporting and protecting women and girls in all aspects of security and beyond.

The Security Institute remains dedicated to championing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the profession and looks forward to building on the momentum of this landmark event in the years to come.