June 2024
Location
- Third Street Foyer
Breaking Barriers: A Woman’s Guide to Leading With Influence
Each day, women around the world wake up and realize their potential isn’t fully utilized, their contributions are stifled, and their voices are not heard. Many of these same women take brave and bold steps to change their lives and build their reputation, career and legacy in ways that make the rest of us marvel at their confidence, ingenuity, and success. Now is your turn!
The old rules don’t work anymore: We were taught that executive presence was the way to drive credibility and influence. But trying to fit the mold someone else crafted for how we should be isn’t sustainable or acceptable any longer. Today, it’s more important to lead with inclusivity, embrace service as a mindset, and show up as real and courageous than it is to simply dress the part.
In this session, you’ll learn how to authentically build trust, articulate your value proposition, define your leadership strategy, and become visible to make your voice heard.
Some women want to lead. Some want to make a difference. Some want to be seen. And we all want our lives and contributions to matter.
Find the confidence to use your voice and create influence to positively drive change.
Location
- Third Street Foyer
Spreadsheets, Struggles and Strategic Vision: Making the Transition From Tactical Management to Senior Leadership
Location
- Phoenix C
Speakers
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Alyssa NayyarDirector, Chief of Staff, Sibylline
Alyssa Nayyar pivoted from the education sector into the security field in 2015 where she started off as a GSOC operator. After a series of promotions and corporate moves from retail to finance, to tech Alyssa joined Sibylline in early 2023 where she works directly for the CEO running the central business office and driving global cross-functional initiatives. Alyssa’s passion is supporting the next generation of security leadership and helping aspiring senior leaders achieve success throughout their career.
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Liz LauzonGlobal VSOC Team Manager, Sibylline
Over the past 10 years, Liz cultivated her LATAM regional expertise working at the Organization of American States (OAS), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and at Southern Pulse conducting LATAM security focused investigative projects. Liz honed her security intelligence skills while at Meta, where she transitioned from a Senior LATAM Analyst to an Intelligence Team Lead. Now with Sibylline, Liz oversees an embedded global SOC – balancing analyst growth with client needs.
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Melissa LucidSenior Manager, GSOC Operations, Sibylline Americas
Melissa joined the corporate security industry as an intelligence analyst in 2015. Since then, Melissa has been part of several GSOCs within tech and finance working with teams of all sizes and responsibilities. Melissa joined Sibylline in June of 2023 and is currently embedded with one of their largest accounts managing their GSOC.
Making the transition from tactical management to senior leadership is a progressive journey. There are stages when leaders must shift from individual contributors into strategic senior management and, later, executive leadership. Stepping into a role that requires the management of managers, and strategic leadership can often be as big an adjustment as the first step into management but is much less often discussed. This transition often takes place in two stages, starting with the “messy middle” where a manager must flex between the tactical management and the strategic, before shifting into the executive leadership space that maintains an almost exclusively strategic focus.
This panel will explore some of the critical mental shifts and work style adjustments needed to be successful through both stages. It will cover common pitfalls, new skills needed and questions for aspiring leaders to reflect on as they prepare themselves for upper management.
Location
- Phoenix DE
Secure Your Worth: Dynamic Negotiation Tactics for Women in Industry
Location
- Phoenix C
Speaker
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Wendy DavisonOwner, Rocky Mountain Consulting
With over two decades in the educational and security sectors, Wendy has distinguished herself as a private consultant specializing in K-20 school safety and security. Her career, which spans roles in education administration, Student Affairs, Greek Life, conduct, and behavioral threat assessment, reflects a deep commitment to enhancing safety protocols and bullying/violence prevention in both K-12 and higher education settings. Her expertise in all-hazards emergency planning, personnel training, and trauma-informed drilling is founded on a human-centric approach that integrates comprehensive strategies with collaborative partnerships to forge safer educational communities.
In the fast-paced and high-stakes field of security, the ability to negotiate effectively is not just a skill—it’s an essential tool for success. “Secure Your Worth” is a program designed specifically for women in the security sector, focusing on empowering them with dynamic negotiation tactics. This engaging session will delve into the critical aspects of negotiation, beginning with constructing a solid foundational toolbox. Participants will explore the mindset of a successful negotiator, learning how to cultivate confidence and strategic acumen.
Preparation strategies will be a cornerstone of the discussion, empowering attendees to enter negotiations with the utmost readiness. The session will then pivot to active engagement, where participants will have the opportunity to put their new skills to the test through practical exercises. By simulating real-world scenarios, attendees will gain hands-on experience, receiving immediate feedback to refine their approach.
This presentation is not just about learning but about transforming. It’s designed to leave every attendee feeling equipped and inspired to claim their worth in the professional arena, ensuring that when they speak, their voices carry the weight of expertise, confidence, and undeniable skill.
Location
- Third Street Foyer
Location
- Phoenix C
Speakers
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Chris PetersonFounder and Principal, Vector Firm
Chris Peterson has almost 30 years of experience in sales and sales leadership, with a focus on system integrators and their technology partners. Chris started Vector Firm in 2010, and today it is the leading sales and marketing consulting and training business serving the security technology industry. Chris lives in Orlando with his wife Shannon and daughter Manhattan, and is a graduate from the University of Florida, with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
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Julaine SimmonsVice President of Security and Electronic Systems, M.C. Dean
Julaine Simmons, vice president of Security & Electronic Systems at M.C. Dean, oversees division operations, customer growth, and employee development to keep the company at the forefront of the security industry. She also serves as a program executive for federal agencies and commercial sector customers. Having worked with M.C. Dean for more than 13 years, she has helped the company expand relationships with some of our top Department of Defense and Intelligence Community customers, advancing M.C. Dean’s mission-critical capabilities.
Julaine is an executive sponsor of Women at M.C. Dean, an affinity group established to support female employees across professional fields. She represents the company at universities and industry organizations, such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and Women in Technology, providing mentorship and advocating for career growth of women in engineering and technology.
Julaine earned her Master’s of Science in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Tech with a focus on fiber optics communication and telecommunications, and has been working in the security industry for over 20 years.
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Kevin EngelhardtPresident, Securitas Technology US
Kevin is a results-driven commercial leader who is passionate about partnering with businesses and organizations to help create a more secure and efficient world. With more than 20 years of senior operations and financial management responsibility, his experience in the security industry keeps him focused intensely on operational excellence and client experience.
Currently serving as the President of Securitas Technology, North America, Kevin leads all commercial activity to drive results across the organization. His top priority is delivering the service that clients know and expect while empowering them through the latest in security innovation.
As a champion of change and advocate of women in security, Kevin seeks to bring diverse perspectives to the table for the ultimate benefit of our client. As a leader Kevin’s legacy will be one of cultivating a culture of clear communication, employee development and recognition.
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John NemerofskyChief Operating Officer, SAGE Integration
In the security industry John Nemerofsky stands out as a beacon of innovation and leadership. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years, John has dedicated his career to advancing the intelligence and integration of security technology—protecting the people, facilities, and reputation of enterprise clients nationwide. As a trailblazer in security integration, John is shaping the future, safeguarding enterprises and inspiring the next generation of security professionals.
In 2019, John assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer at SAGE Integration, a national security integration provider, operating across 62 major U.S. metro areas, boasting a team of over 19,000 installer partner specialists. Under John’s strategic guidance, the company has become a formidable force in the security industry.
Early in his career, John played a pivotal role in the growth of a security integration company, contributing significantly to annual sales of $140 million. His success in both corporate and entrepreneurial environments underscores his versatility and business acumen. Additionally, during his tenure at Niscayah – now Stanley Security Systems – John was instrumental in the organization’s growth to over $1 billion of revenue.
Beyond his role at Sage, John is deeply engaged in the security industry on multiple fronts. He sits on the boards of PSA, SIA, FAST (Foundation for Advancing Security Talent)and Security Sales & Integration Magazine; and is chairman of the board at SecurityXchange, showcasing his commitment to driving industry advancements. John contributes quarterly columns to Security Business Magazine, sharing his expertise for the betterment of the industry.
In 2023, John took on the role of vice chairman at the Foundation of Advancing Security Talent (FAST), a testament to his dedication to nurturing the next generation of security professionals. His passion for recognizing industry excellence shined at 2023 ISC East in NYC where he presented awards to the top ten technicians of the year.
Beyond board service, John works across the industry as chairperson of PSA’s Leadership Committee and is an active member of PSA’s Marketing Committee, demonstrating his commitment to fostering collaboration and driving industry initiatives. John is also deeply involved in the Security Industry Association (SIA). He serves as a board member , Marketing Membership Committee Chairperson as well as on the Women In Security Forum’s Charitable Giving Committee.
Recognized for his outstanding industry contributions, John was awarded the PSA Captains, Hang 10, and High Ride awards at PSA Convention in 2023. Away from the professional arena, John finds fulfillment in giving back to the community. As a proud graduate of the Fox School of Business at Temple University, John stays abreast of the latest industry trends, continuously expanding his knowledge to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of security technology.
As a board member Mission 500, he dedicates his spare time to philanthropic endeavors, further solidifying his commitment to making a positive impact.
At the heart of John’s endeavors is family. His wife Holly, daughters Danielle and Diana, bonus children Ansana and Foxx, and two Aussie Doodles, Edmund and June. In life, Nemerofsky crafts a tapestry of love, support, and shared experiences.
In 2024, the security industry is still largely populated my men. In every level and role, men outnumber women. For the industry to make the necessary strides that will attract, retain, and develop women, we need a network of male allies who are willing to advocate for and support the advancement of women in the workplace.
During this interactive panel discussion, we will explore the pivotal role men can play in creating inclusive environments and empowering women to thrive in leadership roles. Among the topics explored include defining male allyship, practical strategies for recognizing and challenging gender bias, cultivating a culture of allyship and intentional actions to promote women in leadership positions. This session is intended to offer transparency on topics that will help provide insight and direction to the Security LeadHER audience.
Location
- Third Street Foyer
Girl, Get Your Roots Done: Cultivating Unshakable Confidence From Within
Location
- Phoenix C
Speaker
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Amanda McPhersonConfidence Coach and Speaker
Amanda McPherson is a former risk-avoidant scaredy-cat turned award-winning life coach, speaker, and published writer. She is dedicated to empowering women in their career growth, relationships, and self-confidence.
Get ready to dig deep and look inward during this fun and thoughtful presentation that is designed to help you break down mental barriers, feel more confident and achieve your goals!
Location
- Phoenix C