Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work as security for major events? What kind of challenges do security personnel face, and what makes the job rewarding? In this post, we’re taking a closer look at what it takes to work as Alpha Crew Security. We’ll talk to the head of security to get an inside perspective on what it’s like to work for Alpha Crew. Whether you’re considering a career in event security or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes in security companies, read on to find out more!
George Mjavanadze - Operations Director and Head of Security at Alpha Crew
What is it like working in security?
Working in security is a diverse and multi-faceted role that involves managing various responsibilities and tasks unique to each specific job. In events, security guards are often dealing with a wide range of challenges, from managing crowds, to handling emergencies and defusing tense situations. Our Operations Director George Mjavanadze said;
“To be a security guard these days is quite interesting. It involves a lot of different responsibilities and task management, depending on the job you are working. In our case, the majority of our security jobs are in the events industry.”
What would a typical day involve?
Every job is different in this industry, so no day is ever the same. However, George has shared some typical tasks involved in most security jobs;
“There are a few basic responsibilities for security guards; access/egress control, crowd management, supervision of health and safety on site or at the venue, and following and updating the risk assessment wherever needed.”
How long is a typical job?
“Alpha Crew security guards in the events industry, are usually working for a minimum of 5 to 12 hours per day”.
What kind of locations do you work?
Alpha Crew provide professional security across the UK and mainland Europe. Our main area of operation at the moment due to high demand, is London.
“Mainly we are working in central London. This is for a variety of different venues, many with deep rooted history and heritage in the city.”
Favourite gig you’ve worked?
“The last big event we did which was for Adidas. It was at the end of last year at Westminster University. The job was huge, we had 25 security guards over the course of a few days on-site, for the promotion of some new Adidas products. The team also ended up helping Adidas staff giving out some free trainers to the general public which was really rewarding!”
What types of security jobs do you work?
Alpha Crew offer a variety of different security services. From corporate security, patrols, office security, concierge and more.
“At the moment our most popular security services are for events, and for site security jobs.”
How long have you worked in security?
“ I started working as a security guard myself in 2001, and have been working in the industry for more than 20 years. I joined the Alpha Crew team just before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019.”
How can I get into a security job?
If you are interested in pursuing a career in security, you might be wondering how to get started. To shed some light on this, George shares what it takes to become a security guard, and what the application process is like at Alpha Crew.
“To become a security guard, you need to complete a security course that typically takes six days. Following this you will need to pass certain exams including first aid, Action Counter Terrorism (ACT), and physical intervention. After this you must apply to the Security Industry Authority (SIA) to get your licence. Once you’ve completed the course and acquired your licence, you can submit an application form and CV to Alpha Crew security via the recruitment page on our website. If your application is successful, we will invite you for an interview and conduct a security screening process (BS7858) to assess your suitability for the role. If you then pass the screening, you will be offered employment and be deployed onto various sites as needed.”
What qualifications do you need to work in security?
“To work in the security industry, all personnel must have an SIA Licence. This is essential as working without this licence can result in criminal action. Other qualifications can be gained along the way and our extensive training programmes and courses at Alpha Crew can allow for this career progression.
On a personal level, we ask all applicants have a passion and willingness to work in the industry as well as good communication skills, professionalism and a commitment to providing excellent service.”
To find out more about jobs in security or to work with us, please get in touch with the team below.
georgemj@alphacrew.co.uk
info@alphacrew.co.uk
