We recently sat down with Vasili, a Security Officer at our global tech client’s HQ in Adelaide. Vasili's story showcases the power of seizing opportunities and embracing new challenges. Starting in 2016 at the Holden factory, he quickly transitioned into the security industry, proving his capabilities and dedication along the way. He now thrives in a dynamic role, handling a diverse range of responsibilities across multiple sites.
From the Factory Floor to Security Command
Firstly, when did you start with G4S?
I started in mid-2016 at the Holden factory. I proved my capabilities and was made a permanent full-time employee, taking care of the spare parts warehouse. When G4S lost the contract, I was fortunate to be moved to our tech client's HQ in Felixstow.
Could you walk us through your career journey and how you started in the security industry? Why did you choose security?
Honestly, I was on a Disability Support Pension from Centrelink, struggling to find permanent full-time work. My friend suggested security, so I gave it a shot and I’ve never looked back! I started with crowd control and then moved on to static guard work, from bars to wineries. I've enjoyed the problem-solving aspect, and one of my most memorable shifts was checking the track conditions for the Clipsal 500 Adelaide Supercars Championship on a moped during the night shift.
Can you walk us through a typical day for you at Felixstow as a Corporate Security Officer?
We're a 24/7 site, so each day and shift can be different. We monitor mostly Australia and New Zealand after normal business hours, handling issues for the Perth and Hobart sites on top of our regular duties.
Sometimes we juggle multiple tasks at once, like when someone loses their badge, needs access to a restricted area, or there's a problem with doors not locking. We also handle visitors and VIPs, trying to make the process smooth for them.
We have access to other client sites through Lenel and CCTV, monitoring badge swipes and alarms. Today, I was helping the Melbourne site with some badges and communicating with other security guards across Australia via Teams.
Every day and night shift is different. It can be quiet, or something can happen at any time.
What opportunities has G4S provided you for career development and growth?
I've appreciated the training on Lenel and various CCTV programs. Working for a global company provides lots of opportunities for growth.
I’ve also taken on more supervisor responsibilities, like handling timekeeping and ensuring shifts are covered. I've also helped out at the Macquarie Park site in NSW when they needed extra hands on deck.
I'm always interested in expanding my skills, so I've asked about getting my NSW/ACT security license or doing additional training.
What do you enjoy most about your role? Conversely, what is most challenging about your role?
I enjoy the challenge of juggling multiple tasks at once, like handling issues at different sites, responding to intercom requests, and dealing with visitors. It can be demanding, but it's also rewarding.
Do you have any hobbies or things you like to do in your spare time?
I love listening to audiobooks - in fact, I've finished over 570 books! I also enjoy playing board games and watching movies and TV shows with my wife.
I started in mid-2016 at the Holden factory. I proved my capabilities and was made a permanent full-time employee, taking care of the spare parts warehouse. When G4S lost the contract, I was fortunate to be moved to our tech client's HQ in Felixstow.
Could you walk us through your career journey and how you started in the security industry? Why did you choose security?
Honestly, I was on a Disability Support Pension from Centrelink, struggling to find permanent full-time work. My friend suggested security, so I gave it a shot and I’ve never looked back! I started with crowd control and then moved on to static guard work, from bars to wineries. I've enjoyed the problem-solving aspect, and one of my most memorable shifts was checking the track conditions for the Clipsal 500 Adelaide Supercars Championship on a moped during the night shift.
Can you walk us through a typical day for you at Felixstow as a Corporate Security Officer?
We're a 24/7 site, so each day and shift can be different. We monitor mostly Australia and New Zealand after normal business hours, handling issues for the Perth and Hobart sites on top of our regular duties.
Sometimes we juggle multiple tasks at once, like when someone loses their badge, needs access to a restricted area, or there's a problem with doors not locking. We also handle visitors and VIPs, trying to make the process smooth for them.
We have access to other client sites through Lenel and CCTV, monitoring badge swipes and alarms. Today, I was helping the Melbourne site with some badges and communicating with other security guards across Australia via Teams.
Every day and night shift is different. It can be quiet, or something can happen at any time.
What opportunities has G4S provided you for career development and growth?
I've appreciated the training on Lenel and various CCTV programs. Working for a global company provides lots of opportunities for growth.
I’ve also taken on more supervisor responsibilities, like handling timekeeping and ensuring shifts are covered. I've also helped out at the Macquarie Park site in NSW when they needed extra hands on deck.
I'm always interested in expanding my skills, so I've asked about getting my NSW/ACT security license or doing additional training.
What do you enjoy most about your role? Conversely, what is most challenging about your role?
I enjoy the challenge of juggling multiple tasks at once, like handling issues at different sites, responding to intercom requests, and dealing with visitors. It can be demanding, but it's also rewarding.
Do you have any hobbies or things you like to do in your spare time?
I love listening to audiobooks - in fact, I've finished over 570 books! I also enjoy playing board games and watching movies and TV shows with my wife.