Security Buyer catches up with Nick Smith, Regional Manager at Genetec for the latest Into the Cloud personality interview
What does ‘security’ mean to you?
Security is about protecting the everyday, to ensure the safety of people and protection of assets.
What made you want to work in the industry?
To be honest, I had no plans or desires to work in the physical security industry, but I am pleased it is where I ended up. Initially, I fell into it as I moved to an IT company who developed security software solutions – 26 years later and I haven’t escaped!
If you could change anything in the industry, what would it be?
If I could change anything in the industry it would be people’s attitudes towards cybersecurity. You cannot have a good cybersecurity posture without physical security and vice versa.
Describe a funny thing that happened to you recently?
I decided to play a game of football, after being sat on the bench (i.e., the sofa) for 5 years. Two minutes into the game, I stretched for the ball, tore a calf muscle and was removed from the pitch. I have struggled to move ever since.
What’s the most important trend you see today?
With the increasing amount of data being made available, keeping that data secure. If sensitive data is damaged, lost, or stolen, it can lead to disaster.
What three words define you?
Loyal, hard-working, and honest
If you didn’t work in security, what would you be doing?
I would most probably work in the IT field as either an engineer or analyst. Although, if I could turn back time, I would have studied as a marine biologist.
What’s the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn’t learn from your CV?
I lobbied the government and forced them to build a brand-new school in my local area, due to a lack of spaces. The school was built and has been up and running now for over 4 years!
What is one thing you would make compulsory in the office and one thing you would ban?
Wearing flip flops over the summer period as compulsory. Then, I’d probably ban employees working through their lunch break.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
At Genetec, it is great to work for a company that is growing in the right direction and takes care of their staff.
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Media contact
Rebecca Morpeth Spayne,
Editor, Security Portfolio
Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922
Email: [email protected]
