An Interview with Paladin’s New EVP, Christina Duffey

Christina Duffey has been identifying strategic goals since she first became a Security Officer 30 years ago. Her leadership, integrity, and ability to foster positive workplace culture has allowed her to successfully hold a number of senior positions in the security industry. These positions include President of ASIS, Vice President at Paragon Security in Toronto, President of Anderson Protective Agency in Arizona, and most recently, Senior Vice President at SOS Security in the US.

We are excited to announce that on June 8, 2020, we welcomed Christina Duffey as the new Executive Vice President to the Paladin Security Group of Companies, where she will work with both Paladin Security in our Canadian operations and PalAmerican Security in our US operations. Discover how Christina’s passion for frontline security and employee development will support the PSG, by reading our interview with her below.

 

Thanks for taking your time to answer our questions, Christina! Can you tell us about your journey in security and what interested you to work in this field?

I began my career as a security officer and over the span of 30 years, I have held several leadership positions in field operations as Operations Vice President, Regional Director, and President of a regional, family owned business. I have enjoyed working in family atmospheres with family values and cultures that invests in its employees. What initially attracted me to the security industry eventually waned, however, what remained is a foundation that I can build and improve on. It’s an exciting time in our industry as it evolves and welcomes in the next generation of security professionals.

 

You’ve held an extensive amount of senior positions in the security industry. What value did you see in joining Paladin?

Paladin has accomplished amazing things over the years and has created a positive employee culture. I bring to Paladin my insights, experiences, and connections at a very high level to promote positive influence, respect, and harmony without interference.

 

We can’t help but say we’re super excited to have you a part of our team. What is your role at Paladin and what projects will you be involved in?

As Executive Vice President, I will support all aspects of the Paladin Security and PalAmerican Security, including its strategic direction, client support, and team engagement.

 

How does Paladin’s focus on “promotion from within” and the experience of our people, align with your philosophy on employee development?

Promotion from within is a critical element of employee engagement, which in turn leads to greater employee effort, loyalty, and job satisfaction that will translate to company success. Most people have career aspirations, and when we demonstrate that employees can advance their careers internally, they will feel appreciated and engaged. They will also put in extra effort to achieve their own career path, to the benefit of the company. It is important for employees to feel that they are looked at as a human investment and not an expense or a number. When employees grow, the company grows.

 

Why do you believe frontline security officers are essential for protecting businesses and communities, especially during COVID-19?

Frontline security personnel are the eyes and ears of the property management team. They can bring critical and time sensitive information to the table in real time. These could include issues about their building, customer complaints, security threats, and customer delight opportunities. During COVID-19, security personnel can enforce social distancing, building policies, and further support the business and communities by providing support to their employees, tenants, and visitors related to COVID-19. Enforcing rules is critical in avoiding legal ramifications. They can also provide a deterrent to facility damage during social unrest.

 

What are you looking forward to the most in your position as Executive Vice President?

I’m excited to be a part of a team where I can share my experiences to support the functional areas of the company, and at the same time, help to connect industry leading knowledge and resources to our leaders at PSG and PalAmerican.

 

From being President of ASIS to Senior Vice President at SOS Security in the US, you’ve made a huge impact in strengthening the frontline security industry. What would you consider is one of your greatest career achievements so far?

As I think back to all the things that I have accomplished over 30 years, the relationships that I have formed with co-workers, clients, and industry colleagues is what I most cherish. What I have learned is that there are a lot of successes along the way, as well as some disappointments, but all of them are opportunities to show your integrity and character.

 

Thanks for allowing us to interview you, Christina. To conclude, is there any advice you have for those interested in joining the security industry?

Focus on the training provided and continue to learn. Look for a mentor who is a positive influence. Go above and beyond expectations to stand out and learn more than what is provided. Find logical, simple solutions to enhance your current role and improve on the security program where assigned. Always lead by example regardless of your position or rank. Security can provide wonderful career opportunities for those who demonstrate the abilities we seek in security leaders. Security will teach life skills and social knowledge that can lead to much success professionally and personally. Interactions and experiences with people, places, and situations will help not only at work, but in life and at home too.

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