News information

Michelle Smith takes the lead at Guarding UK

Guarding UK, one of the country's most innovative security companies has appointed Michelle Smith to be Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Michelle joined the company earlier this year as Vice President bringing a wealth of experience and expertise having worked at senior level for many blue chip brands.

Major Frank Quigley, who has been running the company for the past decade said: "I am delighted to announce that Michelle Smith has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Guarding UK with immediate effect. She will be focussed on driving the business forward, equipping the company for the next stage of future development."

Michelle has spent many years in the aviation industry progressing through a diverse range of appointments, from facilities management and business development to senior marketing, public relations and strategic communications roles. Leading on many complex projects from crisis management planning, customer focussed programmes and business transformation, to parliamentary and regulatory affairs and rebranding.

In her last role as Head of Passenger Welfare for Heathrow Airport, Michelle developed and led new initiatives to enhance customer experience and business continuity and resilience during times of major disruption. She said: "During my past career I have gained extensive expertise managing and directing a range of customer related programmes reflectingchanging business needs. I'm looking forward to using this experience in my new role at Guarding UK."

Guarding UK was established on traditional law enforcement and senior military expertise which remains through all levels of the company. Major Peter Rees will continue in his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and will focus on developing and building operations. Michelle's service delivery background will complement the progressive outlook of Guarding UK.

"Guarding UK is a forward thinking and a service driven organisation and I'm looking forward to leading its dedicatedand enthusiastic team. The security business is constantly in the spotlight and reputation management and customer care, along with competitiveness, are areas I believe will play an increasingly significant role in the industry"

Ends

For further information contact for further :

Michelle Smith on01992 655 656 or mobile:07471 034 957

Or

Martin Newman on 07717 717981

Notes for editors:

Guarding UK has grown rapidly since its establishment in 2003 with a turnover of over £24 million. The company has experienced another successful year achieving an exceptional SIA ACS score putting it in the top one per cent of the 700 accredited security companies and this month has been nominated for a Security and Fire Excellence Award. 

Michelle Smith is available for interview. To arrange telephone Martin Newman on 07717 717981