Please explain a little bit about your role as Security Manager?
I have a team of four security supervisors, nine security officers, and two car park supervisors. We also have the additional support of seven bank staff to cover staffing shortfalls or situations which require increased staffing levels.
In my role I act as the reference point for security matters, maintaining systems and implementing processes and procedures that ensure the safety and welfare of all staff, patients, and visitors.
I liaise with outside agencies, for example the police to ensure that our processes are robust enough.
What inspired you to take on the role of Security Manager?
I am a fairly new manager, but for the last 12 years I have worked closely with, and been trusted to deputise for, the previous two security managers. In that time, I have learned a great deal about the role and have been responsible for a lot of the admin side – for example, updating existing policies and procedures or creating new ones. I’m confident in my ability to do this, so when I was given the opportunity, I couldn’t refuse.
What does a typical day look like for you as Security Manager?
There isn’t really a typical day. There is always admin to deal with and I try to spend some time with my teams, but I may be asked to conduct an investigation or attend a meeting. There may be equipment malfunctions to deal with. I carry out audits and make sure that the department KPIs are being met.
I do try to organise my time, so I’ll set certain days of the week to carry out set tasks – for example, on a Monday morning I’ll double check the Rosters to make sure that the bank staff have had their hours put in and finalised. I’ll download the data collector that we carry with us when conducting patrols of the premises and check that the patrols for the previous week have been carried out in accordance with our standard operating procedures.
How does your role support patients and staff at Cromwell Hospital?
My role is to ensure that we have the resources to keep everyone safe.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
The variety – it’s very enjoyable, no two days are the same – and the people. Cromwell Hospital has some of the most caring and dedicated people I’ve ever met.