IPSA - International Professional Security Association - has recently announced the official appointment of Simon Pears, head of security at the Centre of Excellence, Sodexo, to its international council and management board, after being successfully nominated and elected by members. 

IPSA is a membership body for individuals and companies working in security and associated roles. The association was formed over 50 years ago to ensure professionalism in the management of security operations, and is an established and recognised worldwide professional security organisation.

Simon has been involved in security, audit and investigations since 1999 and has worked in various roles both within Sodexo and with previous companies. He joined Sodexo in 2007 as operations support controller and became head of security in 2009, reporting to the centre of excellence director, Kathy Ridgard.

Simon has worked extensively on delivering industry leading regulatory compliance within Sodexo and has built a network of key industry contacts with organisations such as the Security Industry Authority, Private Security Authority, Security Watchdog, Security Institute of Ireland, Skills for Security and IPSA.

Simon, said: “I am thrilled with the news and very excited about my new appointment. I am looking forward to working with fellow board members on various issues affecting our industry and raising awareness about the security profession, both nationally and internationally.”

Justin Bentley, chief executive officer at IPSA, said: “I am glad to see Simon taking an active role with IPSA. It is important that our council members are both representative of the membership and dedicated to professionalism in the industry. Simon brings Sodexo's ethos of investment in employees and commitment to the industry."

www.sodexo.com