Managing Editor Rebecca Spayne catches up with security vanguard, Yolanda Hamblen. This interview takes a deep dive into the pivotal role of mentorship and camaraderie in the security industry
I had the privilege of catching up with Yolanda Hamblen for this issue’s Big Interview. Yolanda is a senior security leadership professional with over 15 years of experience in management roles across both physical and cyber security disciplines. Yolanda is on the Advisory Board of IFPO and chairs the ED&I subcommittee, whilst also actively participating in the Mental Health and Wellbeing group. She’s a member of ASIS International and sits on the ASIS International Physical Steering Committee, and she connects with other security professionals globally through the IFPO Security Circle Podcast and the ASIS Turning Pages Security Book Podcast.
Could you provide a bit of background into your career?
The more years you accumulate as a professional, the further back you must delve to recall. However, I began my first career as a DJ, touring the world. When 9/11 occurred, it ignited a profound purpose within me to contribute more significantly and purposefully. I joined the police force 11 months later. The sight of firefighters entering the towers selflessly, unaware of the impending collapse, was a profound moment of reflection for me. I questioned the direction of my life. While I enjoyed DJing globally, I felt a lack of purpose, so I joined the police force. My time in the police was enriching. I found myself in a detective role shortly after. I worked on significant cases, including deaths in custody and serious sexual offences. However, I realised it wasn’t a lifelong career for me. Transitioning to the physical security sector, I swiftly climbed the ranks, starting as a security officer in a shopping centre. It’s been a journey of managing teams, departments, and a dedication to the protection of people, assets, and data.
A remarkably varied career in all facets of the security industry. You serve on the advisory board for IFPO, one of our Security Buyer partners, and you also lead the ED&I subcommittee. Could you shed some light on the role of this committee and IFPO’s broader mandate?
IFPO truly champions inclusive membership. Earlier in my security career, I felt somewhat isolated as I wasn’t part of any professional bodies. So, I ardently recommend anyone not currently affiliated to not only join one but perhaps even two organisations. Such memberships place you amongst seasoned professionals who can guide your career. When Mike Hurst approached me about introducing IFPO to the UK, I was immediately onboard. IFPO, or the International Foundation of Protection Officers, primarily had a robust presence in North America. Mike is a true luminary in the field, and it’s a privilege to be involved in his initiatives. In my role as the ED&I chair, I ensure that inclusivity is at the forefront of our projects. This role ensures a consistent commitment to diversity and inclusivity across all our narratives and ventures. This commitment also extends to matters of mental health.
The ethos IFPO upholds is commendable. Being at the helm of this subcommittee means championing equality, diversity, inclusion, equity, and intersectionality. What ignited this passion in you?
Oh, I’m not entirely sure. I recently mentioned during a keynote speech that during interviews, one is often asked about past failures and life lessons. I find such a question rather disingenuous, especially towards women. During my time with the police, I belonged to a mere 7% of female police officers. In the security sector, I was one of just 10% of licensed female security officers. And now, in security leadership, that figure is around 5%. So, where exactly did I go astray in this journey? It’s clear to me that I’ve always been in the minority in these roles. Even as a DJ, there were few female DJs – I was one of the rare ones. Of course, none were quite as good as me – just joking!
There seems to be something intrinsic in me that gravitates towards roles where I’m constantly out of my comfort zone. But being out of one’s comfort zone means heightened sensitivities. You perceive clearer, you are more attuned to your surroundings and the direction you’re heading in. Being complacent might be stifling, and that’s just not me. Of course, I’ve chosen a demanding journey. Women, in general, are doing commendable work in advocating for women today. We’re empowering and supporting one another. We have vast networks on platforms like LinkedIn. There’s a strong camaraderie among women in the various membership bodies.
Furthermore, many security membership bodies are endorsing a crucial harassment survey that’s currently underway. We’re keenly awaiting the results, which I suspect will be quite revealing. How we cooperate is essential. I always advocate for having a male perspective in ED&I narratives. You can’t solely push an agenda without having allies by your side. And fundamentally, I stand up for marginalised communities and intersectionality. It’s heartbreaking to see how some of my friends – whether they’re transgender, gay, or non-binary – are treated. I can’t help but support the underrepresented in society. This also means continuing our support for women in the security industry.
As for women in security, it’s indeed an area I ardently advocate for. How do you feel the security industry has progressed towards better gender equality? Numerous MDs in the sector are eager to advocate, promote, hire, and have more women in leadership roles. I’ve had personal conversations with them about their visions. I’m optimistic, especially with the younger generation at the helm. We’re now seeing Gen X individuals as MDs rather than the Boomer generation. Not to discredit the Boomers, they’ve done remarkably well. But having a younger generation at the helm brings a fresh perspective, reshaping the future of security services.
Women are being granted more opportunities for growth, learning, and mentorship. They’re becoming an integral part of inclusivity projects at work. I’ve always encouraged women to feel confident throughout the hiring process – from applying to interviewing to discussing their qualifications. That’s why I always make time for any woman reaching out for advice or guidance, whether it’s about launching a podcast or entering the cybersecurity field.
Reaching out is challenging, and while I might not always have all the answers, I have a vast network to connect them to the right people. Every woman should feel confident enough to have a mentor. I recently connected with a security professional from Zoom who has offered to mentor me for a while. We should take pride in having mentors – individuals with whom we can share ideas, concerns, and experiences. After all, some of the most accomplished professionals have had mentors.
To answer your question, we have a long way to go. Women constantly feel the need to reinforce their qualifications. We must stay informed, ensure we’re up to date with our facts, figures, and narratives. It has taken me ages to truly comprehend my own story. I associate with women who are unapologetically feminist. While I might not always concur with all their views, their assertive stance supports and empowers me, reminding me that my feelings and apprehensions are valid. If any of what I’ve said resonates with you, please find a mentor. If you’re struggling to find one, approach me. I can connect you to a vast network. Never think, “I don’t know where to turn.” If capacity becomes an issue for me personally, I will always direct you to someone who can help.
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Rebecca Morpeth Spayne,
Editor, Security Portfolio
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