Pictured, from top left to bottom right: Jonathan McBay, Simon Saddington, Robert Thomson, Gavin McCartney & Nasir Kassim
Security officers are often seen as a reassuring presence – a confirmation that someone is keeping you safe. While it’s easy to spot the guard at the door, it’s less obvious to see those who work tirelessly behind the scenes (and screens). For all hours of the day, these security officers work diligently at our NSI Gold Cat II accredited Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) in Glasgow providing remote monitoring and surveillance, for customers all over the country.
Time and again, our Corps Monitoring team have been on hand to assist in times of need. Our officers have most recently halted an attempted theft of £175,000 of goods thanks to vigilant CCTV monitoring. Aside from stopping lawbreakers, our officers monitoring Somerset House in London sprang into action when a fire broke out in the West Wing. In both cases, no one was injured and any wrongdoing was immediately ceased.
As part of Security Officer Appreciation Week, we’re taking some time to recognise some of those who aren’t as visible but who are critical to our business.
Jonathan McBay
Jonathan, a shift supervisor at Corps Monitoring, joined the company two years ago after graduating from college during the COVID pandemic. Unable to attend university due to the lockdown, he decided to enter the workforce and found an opportunity with Corps Monitoring. His interest in security made the job a natural fit, and he quickly came to enjoy his role.
Jonathan works on a dayshift team that helps engineers set up systems and handles customer inquiries. With technological advancements like AI-integrated cameras and new alarm systems that help ensure that a security officer isn’t always needed on the floor, he believes remote monitoring is the future of security.
Over the past five years, Corps Monitoring has significantly advanced, incorporating automated systems like Umbo (which filters false alarms) and expanding its team. Jonathan is excited about the industry’s future, especially with the growing role of AI, machine learning, and 5G technology. This promises real-time monitoring improvements over larger areas.
Simon Saddington
Simon joined Corps Monitoring in 2023 after over 25 years in the security industry. Since joining, he’s gained deeper insights into how the ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre) operates beyond simply monitoring cameras. He’s gained skills system programming, engineering processes, and assisting clients, as well as the daily tasks that ensure the smooth running of the monitored sites.
Simon emphasises that remote monitoring is crucial in today’s world, helping cover more premises with greater safety. Technology has made this process more efficient by reducing false alarms and improving overall service.
For him, the most rewarding part of the job is helping clients keep their premises secure and seeing the positive impact on their businesses.
Robert Thomson
Robert Thomson began his career at Corps Monitoring in 2013 as a temporary night shift operator. With no prior experience in security, he learned the trade from seasoned professionals. After starting a family, he transitioned to the dayshift, where he took on administrative responsibilities and gained expertise in security systems and networking. Today, as a shift supervisor, he leads a four-person team, ensuring the smooth operation of the Corps Monitoring Centre (CMC).
Robert was drawn to Corps for its stability and career opportunities. Over the years, he’s witnessed significant advancements in security technology, with more people adopting remote monitoring for personal and corporate use. For him, the most exciting aspect of the job is catching intruders and the thrill of seeing advancements in security technology. He’s particularly looking forward to AI’s potential to enhance crime prevention.
Gavin McCartney
Gavin began his career with Corps Monitoring in 2010 as a CCTV operator. Within two years, he was promoted to a Technical Administrator, a role that allowed him to delve into sales, customer service, and finance. His passion for these areas led to move through the ranks, eventually becoming Monitoring Solutions Director in 2022.
He was drawn to Corps Monitoring by its clear career progression and the company’s values, such as supporting charities like Combat Stress. Additionally, Corps Security’s rich past dating back to 1859 appealed to his love for history.
Gavin highlights the growing importance of remote monitoring, particularly as a cost-effective alternative to having physical security staff. COVID-19 accelerated its adoption as businesses realised the value of remote security solutions.
While Corps Monitoring has advanced technologically in the past five years, Gavin emphasises that the company’s core mission remains the same; protecting clients’ properties and people through reliable monitoring solutions.
Nasir Kassim
Nasir joined Corps Monitoring in 2023, right after completing university. Nasir was drawn to the company through friends who shared positive experiences about Corps’ inclusive and supportive environment.
As a CCTV Operator, his time at Corps Monitoring has been fulfilling, allowing him to train with and benefit from the company’s commitment to innovation and professional growth. The evolution of technologies like the internet of things (IoT), AI, and machine learning is making remote monitoring more proactive and predictive, helping reduce downtime and costs.
Although relatively new to the company, Nasir has observed the dynamic growth and innovation at Corps. He’s enthusiastic about the industry’s future, expecting advancements in AI, cybersecurity, and sustainability.
Mike Bullock, our chief executive officer, commends Corps Monitoring: “Our officers not only fulfil their duties but also consistently surpass expectations, ensuring our customers and the public are kept safe. I am incredibly proud of each officer, your work doesn’t go unnoticed.”
Thank you to all our hardworking officers who bring dedication and excellence to their roles.
