The first-ever Global Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs) took place virtually on 12th February, bringing together the very best of the security industry from across the world. This landmark event recognised and celebrated the winners among winners—finalists who had already distinguished themselves in their respective national OSPAs competitions.
The winners are:
Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director
Canada: Sarah Miller – ASP Security
In her role as an Operations Manager at ASP Security Sarah has overseen a broad portfolio of accounts and managed contract security personnel in municipal, corporate, residential, and commercial environments throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Her professionalism has been widely admired by employees, colleagues, clients, industry peers, and the ASP leadership team. Sarah has demonstrated an exceptional ability to innovate, manage, and lead, particularly in scenarios that demand rapid, detailed, and effective solutions. Sarah’s personal approach is much admired not just in security but crucially by professionals in other areas of the organisation too.
Outstanding In-House Security Manager/Director
UK: Paul Bean – Royal Mail
Paul’s transformative approach to security at the Royal Mail has evolved from establishing a close rapport with the C Suite. Successfully addressing global challenges like cyber threats and enhancing operational efficiency have been impactful on the organisation and resulted in security being identified as a unit imbued with high trust in the organisation.
Outstanding Security Training Initiative
Nigeria: Academy Halogen – Halogen Security Company
Academy Halogen has built a nationwide alumni network that enhances organisational performance through innovative risk management. Renowned for excellence, it attracts private students and government agencies, successfully training personnel from Nigeria Police and LASTMA.
Outstanding Security Team
Benelux: Security & Loss Prevention Team – Amazon
Amazon’s Global Security Operations (GSO) team developed a risk-based security strategy and “Cluster Model” approach, reducing supply chain losses by 18% despite a 10% increase in revenue and volume. The GSO’s focus on continuous improvement and talent development positions it as a security sector role model.
Outstanding Security Sustainability Award
Ireland: SecuriGroup
SecuriGroup’s sustainability efforts drive carbon reduction, foster employee engagement, and support clients’ sustainability goals, adding significant value to the company. These initiatives contribute to broader sustainability objectives and inspire others to prioritise environmental responsibility.
Outstanding Security Consultant
Australia: Intelligent Risks
Intelligent Risks (IR) is a globally recognized leader in security master planning and risk management, delivering tailored, proportionate solutions for major events and precincts. IR advises prestigious clients and provides design advice for iconic global projects and sets the benchmark for innovative, risk-based security solutions.
Outstanding Security Installer/Integrator
Romania: Guard One
Guard One, with 28 years in the Romanian security market and growing in other parts of Europe, has revolutionised video surveillance through innovation and strategic collaboration. Their cutting-edge system enhances operational performance, efficiency, and client-specific strategies, setting new industry standards.
Outstanding New Security Product
Southern Africa: NoKey – Secutel Technologies
NoKey from Secutel Technologies is an advanced cloud-based access control solution using mobile technology for enhanced security and convenience. It replaces traditional methods with a secure, efficient solution for businesses.
Outstanding Security Partnership
Australia: Wilson Security and EON Protection
The Wilson Security and EON protection partnership, enhances indigenous employment and community connections while improving safety at Rio Tinto’s mining sites. Their partnership not only improves security it also provides a form of collaboration that fosters inclusivity and enables cultural education.
Outstanding Security Officer
US: James Showalter – GardaWorld
James Showalter, GardaWorld’s 2023 Companywide Officer of the Year, exemplifies outstanding service and leadership at Transamerica’s busiest Cedar Rapids site, praised for his quick emergency responses. His dedication, reliability, and strong stakeholder rapport make him an invaluable asset, reinforcing trust and security.
Outstanding Female Security Professional
India & South Asia: Rekha Gairola – Boeing India
With 23 years in corporate security, Rekha excels in risk assessment, supply chain security, fraud examination, investigations, and Prevention of Sexual Harassment training. Her commitment to excellence has fortified organisations against financial malfeasance and fostered respectful, secure workplaces across diverse sectors.
I’m incredibly honored to receive this award—first at the regional level and now on a global stage. Winning this award as a woman security professional is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the progress we are making in creating a more inclusive and diverse industry.
This recognition is more than just a milestone; it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can go. For me, it reinforces the responsibility to keep learning, growing, and supporting other women who aspire to lead in this field. I hope this award serves as proof that no matter where we come from, our work and dedication can have a global impact.
Moving forward, I want to use this platform to mentor, advocate, and contribute in meaningful ways to the industry. If this achievement inspires even one more woman to step forward with confidence, then it means even more.
A heartfelt thank you to the organizing team and everyone who has been part of my journey. Here’s to breaking more barriers together!
Rekha Gairola, Boeing India
Outstanding Young Security Professional
Australia: Claudia Nave – NBN
Claudia Nave, a graduate in Digital Forensics and Threat Intelligence at NBA, excels in cyber threat detection, forensic analysis, and security operations, contributing significantly since 2022. Recognised for her adaptability, resilience, and technical expertise, she has achieved notable successes in project testing and vulnerability management.
Overjoyed and proud, my achievement is a testament to my amazing and supportive team. Excited to keep aiming high and protecting in our ever-changing cyber world.
Claudia Nave, NBN
Outstanding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative
UK: SmartSec Solutions
SmartSec Solutions’ workforce mirrors the rich diversity of the communities it serves; this includes the core management team. This cultural diversity enhances their collective perspective, enables a deeper insight and expertise for the more efficient resolution of cross-cultural conflicts.
Outstanding Security Company (Guarding)
Nigeria: Halogen Security Company
Halogen’s exceptional performance, driven by digitisation and stringent quality management systems, earned them Nigeria’s first ISO certification in security. Its focus on global best practices has attracted numerous high-profile clients across various sectors.
The Global OSPAs represent a unique and prestigious platform, shining a light on the outstanding individuals, teams, and organisations that set the benchmark for excellence in security. Each finalist had already been recognised as a winner in their own country, making every nominee a true leader in their field.
Professor Martin Gill, Founder of the OSPAs, commented:
“The Global OSPAs have showcased the very best of the security industry on an international stage. The finalists represent the highest level of achievement in their countries, and selecting the winners was an incredibly difficult task. We are honoured to celebrate their contributions to keeping people, businesses, and communities safe. Congratulations to all the winners—each of you is a true champion of security excellence.”
Thank you to LMS Security Consultant for sponsoring the Global Outstanding Security Partnership category.
A Huge Thank You to Our Supporters
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, regional advisors, industry associations, and judging panel—leaders from across the security sector who dedicated their time and expertise to ensuring a fair and rigorous selection process. Their involvement underscores the global commitment to recognising excellence and innovation within the industry.
As the Global OSPAs continue to grow, we look forward to further celebrating the exceptional work of security professionals worldwide. If you would like to get involved with us, whether that is as a sponsor or a supporting association, contact us.
