IFPO Security Research Project: The Competence of Frontline Security Professionals and What They Say About Their Work

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Industry Quotes

Hear from members of the industry and their insights on the results of this research project.

This important project provides insights into the competency of frontline security staff, a much under-researched topic. While for supporters of the value of security the research reveals encouraging findings, it also highlights areas which need urgent attention.’

Dr. Martin Gill


This research identifies and supports the fact that security officers have complex jobs which are misunderstood and often minimized.  The tasks they perform require more understanding and support from their clients and employers. 

 Dr. Glen Kitteringham M.Sc., CPP


This research project has been needed for a long time.  That single security officer working alone at a post, or a small team working a shift has insights that management can only assume.  Now evidence has been collected and put into a wonderful read collecting vital demographic data and issues facing first responding security.  An important report, performed by an academic, of our industry. 

Joe McDonald, CPP, PSP, CMAS


The current study addresses gaps in the Security body of knowledge, while raising additional questions worthy of further inquiry. The results of this research should be required reading for those involved with managing frontline officers as well as training in any capacity.  

Linda F. Florence, PhD., CPP


This innovative research answers questions we have needed in the security industry for a long time.  It is especially relevant given the critical need for excellent security professionals given the vulnerabilities companies and industries are all facing and with employment challenges.  This research will aid in recruitment, retention and Security officer development to enhance this industry through its human resources.

Bonnie Michelman, CPP, CHPA


Times change and we also must change to stay ahead of the curve another reason why this project is so important.

Lawrence J. Fennelly CPOI, CSSM

IFPO Security Research Project Advisory Board

Sandi Davies
Executive Director
International Foundation for Protection Officers
Naples, FL

Charles "CHUCK" Andrews, CPP
Chief Strategic Officer
International Foundation for Protection Officers
Houston, TX

Diane Ritchey
Marketing Director
Zenitel
Kansas City, MO

Dr. Glen Kitteringham CPP
Owner and Principal Consultant
Independent Researcher & Criminologist
The Kitteringham Group
Calgary, Alberta Canada

John M. Garrigan
Senior Vice President of Organizational Development
SecurAmerica, LLC
Atlanta, GA

Linda Florence, Ph.D., CPP
Chairman,
IFPO
Alta Loma, CA

Christine Brooks
Events Manager
Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAS)
11a High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Karen Bennett
Program Coordinator
International Foundation for Protection Officers
Naples, FL

Dr Peter Stiernstedt, CPP, CISM
Lecturer in Criminology
University of West London
London, United Kingdom

Mike Hurst CPP
Director - International Foundation for Protection Officers (UK)
Director - HJA Consult Ltd
London, United Kingdom

Mark Porterfield
Chief Security Officer
Security Services ‑ U.S.
GardaWorld
St. Louis, MO

Darren Chalmers-Stevens
Managing Director
Criticalarc
England, United Kingdom

Mario Doyle
CEO
Doyle Security Services
New York, USA

Steve Caroselli
CEO
Orion Entrance Control, Inc.
New Hampshire, USA

Maggie Shein
Editor-in-Chief,
Security Magazine

Joe McDonald CPP, PSP, CMAS
Retired Security Executive

Our Research Sponsors

Additional Sponsors

Paradox Security Group

Lysander Bone

Brian Hollstegge

Collin McGraw

Samuel McMillan

Rob Sacka

Jason Zimmerman

IFPO Research Conducted by:

Perpetuity Research