Last week, ASIS International Malaysia Chapter had the pleasure of hosting a highly insightful webinar with the co-founders of Enteles Search, Chris Meager and James Butler. This event was done in collaboration with the Learning & Events Committee under the Asia Pacific Regional Board of ASIS International and participation was open to all ASIS International members from the Southeast Asia chapters.
Enteles Search specializes in executive search solutions for the corporate security and investigative markets. With over 47 years of collective expertise, they have placed candidates in more than 60 countries, including Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Their extensive database of over 35,000 security professionals and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the security industry makes them a trusted partner for both employers and candidates alike.
In recent months, we observed that there has been a growing number of opportunities in corporate security roles, particularly in Malaysia. With that in mind, we reached out to Chris and James in hope that they could share some insights on how corporate security professionals can future proof themselves and secure their dream role. A big thank you to both Chris and James for taking time out of their busy schedules, especially considering the early hours in the UK. We truly appreciated their effort in sharing their expertise with our community.
Some key takeaways from the webinar:
1. Positioning Yourself in the Job Market
As we’ve seen, security roles—particularly regional ones—are increasingly in demand. Chris and James offered valuable advice on how candidates can position themselves effectively. The key is to constantly upskill and stay relevant. They recommended focusing on both soft and technical skills, understanding industry-specific needs, and adapting to emerging trends in security. They also emphasized on updating the LinkedIn profile and networking with peers in the industry, as candidates need to be easily found and contactable.
2. Trends in Security Role Demand
As we move into an era of heightened security risks, the demand for security professionals continues to rise. Chris and James highlighted specific sectors such as finance and FMCG, where there is a strong need for talent. While previously most roles were general security roles, they observed that clients are now looking for more in-depth roles and embedded roles within organizations.
3. Certifications that Matter
Certifications continue to play a pivotal role in the security recruitment process. Some of the most valued certifications, according to Enteles Search, are those that reflect both technical and management competencies. Certifications like the ASIS Certified Protection Professional (CPP) and other cyber security certifications remain highly sought after by employers. However, they emphasized that candidates need to know where they are in their career and if the certification will be beneficial to the growth of their career.
4. Education vs. Experience: Which is More Important?
One of the most interesting questions during the webinar revolved around the debate between formal education and hands-on experience. Chris and James shared that while degrees are valuable, practical experience and certifications are also important in the security sector. They also mentioned the need to be familiar with the business and industry that your organization is operating in, as security leaders are now expected to be involved in business decisions and provide necessary advice to senior leaders.
5. Future-Proofing Your Security Career
With the rapidly changing security landscape, especially in regions like Southeast Asia, it’s critical for security professionals to remain agile. Chris and James stressed the importance of continuous learning to adapt to new risks—whether they are cyber threats, political instability, or other emerging threats. Professionals who can pivot and stay ahead of technological and regulatory changes will be the most successful.
Both Chris and James provided invaluable insights into the security recruitment landscape. As the security industry evolves, so too must the professionals within it. Upskilling, obtaining the right certifications, and staying ahead of emerging trends will be key factors in securing a successful career in this dynamic field.
Thank you once again to Enteles Search for their time and expertise, and to everyone who joined us for this informative session! Stay tuned for more webinars and discussions on the evolving security landscape. A recording of this webinar will be uploaded into the member’s section, do check it out if you missed the session!
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