Security Jobs Finder - Insights
35th Edition
1. Featured articles
This week we look at United States warns about violent crime, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks in South Africa. How AI and Robotics Are Changing Security — And How You Can Stay Ahead. Plus: job interview tips & The Role of a General Manager explained.
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3. United States warns about violent crime, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks in South Africa
The United States has warned its citizens to exercise extreme caution when travelling to South Africa due to violent crime, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks.
The United States’ Department of State issued this warning in a South African travel advisory on 27 May 2025. Its purpose is to protect the lives and serve the interests of U.S. citizens abroad.
The level 2 travel alert informed Americans to exercise increased caution in South Africa due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.
“Violent crime is common and includes robbery, rape, carjacking and mugging. There are also “smash-and-grab” attacks on vehicles,” it said.
It explained that violent crime is more common in the downtown areas of big cities, especially after dark.
It added that kidnapping is a threat in South Africa. “Kidnappers target U.S. citizens and other foreign travellers to steal money,” it said.
“Captors often force victims to withdraw cash or give online account passwords before they are let go. Though rare, some kidnappings involve demanding ransom from families.”
The Department of State further warned that there is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity, in South Africa.
Another concern is demonstrations, protests, and strikes, which the travel advisory said occur frequently.
“These protests can start suddenly, interrupt traffic, transportation, and other services, and turn violent,” it said.
Due to these risks, U.S. government employees working in South Africa must obtain special authorisation to travel to many informal settlements in and around Cape Town.
“U.S. mission staff must use fully armoured vehicles when visiting and visiting hours are limited to 10:00 -15:00 weekdays only,” it said.
It added that Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban are critical-threat locations for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
It has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for South Africa, indicating that there may be widespread violent crime and organized crime present in the country.
The U.S. Department of State added that South Africa’s law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes.
The U.S. Department of State’s advice to its citizens
The U.S. Department of State said violent crime remains an ever-present threat in South Africa and impacts people where they live, work, shop, and while in transit.
Common crimes include murder, rape, armed robbery, carjacking, home invasion, property theft, smash and grab, and ATM robbery.
Armed robbery is the most prevalent major crime in South Africa, most often involving organised gangs armed with handguns and knives.
It added that smash and grabs, carjackings, financial and identity theft crimes, kidnappings, and terrorism also pose a threat to travellers.
The U.S. Department of State told its citizens who decide to travel to South Africa to exercise caution, which include:
Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
Drive with doors locked and windows closed.
Follow local authority instructions.
Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
Avoid visiting informal settlements (townships) unless you are with someone familiar with the area.
Avoid driving outside of metropolitan areas at night, due to road hazards such as animals, broken down vehicles, and the potential to become a victim of crime.
Stay aware of your surroundings.
Stay alert in tourist spots.
Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to South Africa.
It further advised citizens to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy.
United States Department of State South Africa Travel Advisory
Source: https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/827296/united-states-warns-about-violent-crime-kidnappings-and-terrorist-attacks-in-south-africa/
4. Interview Q & A
How to Answer the Interview Question: “In what industries have you previously worked as a security guard?”
Why Do Recruiters Ask This Question?
This question helps recruiters assess your level of experience, versatility, and ability to adapt to various working environments. Security work can vary significantly across industries—retail, corporate, industrial, residential, healthcare, events, and banking sectors all have distinct operational demands, risk profiles, and client expectations.
By understanding the sectors you’ve worked in, recruiters can determine how well your background aligns with their client’s needs. For example, if you're applying for a role at a logistics warehouse, experience in industrial or transport-related sites will be advantageous. If it’s for retail or customer-facing environments, prior retail security experience would be more relevant.
Ultimately, the recruiter wants to know:
Have you worked in environments similar to theirs?
Do you have transferable skills?
Are you aware of the typical challenges and procedures in different industries?
How to Structure Your Answer
When answering this question, it’s best to:
List relevant industries clearly and briefly.
Explain the nature of your duties in each.
Highlight any achievements or valuable experience gained.
Keep the focus on relevance and flexibility. Avoid generic answers like “I’ve worked in many places” without providing substance.
Sample Answer
"I’ve worked as a security guard in a few different sectors. I started in the retail industry, where I was responsible for monitoring CCTV, preventing theft, and assisting with customer service. Later, I worked in corporate office security, where I handled access control, visitor screening, and after-hours patrols. Most recently, I’ve been working at a residential complex, managing gate control and responding to emergency call-outs. Each role taught me different aspects of the job—from public interaction to dealing with emergencies—and I’ve learned how to adapt my approach based on the environment and risks involved."
Why This Works
This answer:
Shows a range of experience across different environments.
Demonstrates adaptability and an understanding of industry-specific risks.
Provides a clear timeline of progression and development.
Adds value by highlighting transferable skills like CCTV monitoring, access control, and public engagement.
What If You Only Have Experience in One Industry?
That’s fine too. The key is to show depth and insight.
Alternative Answer:
"Most of my experience has been in the healthcare sector, working as a guard at a private hospital. I handled patient and visitor screening, emergency response procedures, and monitored sensitive areas like pharmaceutical storage. While I haven’t worked in other industries yet, I’ve developed strong skills in managing high-pressure environments, which I believe are transferable to other security settings."
Closing Tips
Be honest about your experience—quality is often more valuable than quantity.
Emphasise how your background prepares you for the new role.
Show a willingness to learn if you're entering a new industry.
Remember: This question isn’t just about your past. It’s an opportunity to show how your experience can serve the employer’s future needs.
5. The different career options available in the security field:
Career Spotlight: The Role of a General Manager in the Security Industry
In the complex and fast-paced world of private security, few roles are as pivotal as that of the General Manager (GM). Whether overseeing operations for a regional branch or managing the national footprint of a security provider, the GM is responsible for aligning people, systems, and strategy to deliver reliable, compliant, and efficient security services.
What Does a General Manager Do in the Security Industry?
The General Manager acts as the highest-ranking on-site executive within a private security firm or division. Their role is primarily strategic and operational, ensuring that the organisation's goals are met while maintaining service excellence and client satisfaction.
Key functions include:
Operational Oversight
Managing day-to-day operations across multiple contracts or branches, ensuring guards, supervisors, and support staff deliver as per client expectations and company standards.Client Relationship Management
Building and maintaining relationships with key clients. The GM often acts as the face of the company during high-level meetings, contract negotiations, or escalations.Budgeting and Financial Control
Preparing budgets, monitoring financial performance, and implementing cost control measures to ensure profitability and sustainability.Staff Management and Development
Overseeing recruitment, performance management, and staff development strategies. Ensuring that team structures are efficient, well-trained, and compliant with legislation (including PSIRA regulations).Compliance and Risk Management
Ensuring that operations adhere to applicable laws, regulations, and health and safety standards. Responding proactively to audits, client concerns, or operational incidents.Strategic Planning
Developing long-term plans for growth, innovation, and service improvement within the security portfolio.
Duties and Responsibilities
A General Manager in the security industry typically carries the following responsibilities:
Lead and coordinate the activities of operations, finance, HR, and compliance departments.
Monitor service delivery standards and implement improvements where necessary.
Ensure all contractual obligations are met or exceeded.
Represent the organisation in industry forums, compliance audits, and public engagements.
Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational and financial success.
Mentor and develop middle and senior managers.
Handle escalated client issues and emergencies.
Drive innovation and efficiency across departments.
Skills and Qualities Required
To be successful in this role, a General Manager should demonstrate:
Strong leadership and decision-making skills
Excellent communication and negotiation ability
In-depth knowledge of the security industry and applicable legislation
Financial and operational acumen
Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
High emotional intelligence for staff and client management
Proficiency in workforce planning and resource allocation
Qualifications and Career Path
While entry into the GM role typically requires extensive experience, the path can look like this:
Entry-Level Security Role – Guard or controller
Supervisory Position – Site supervisor or team leader
Operations or Area Manager – Managing clusters or multiple sites
Branch or Regional Manager – Overseeing geographic operations
General Manager
Recommended Qualifications:
A diploma or degree in Business Administration, Security Management, or a related field
PSIRA Grade A certification (mandatory for senior operational roles)
Financial management or HR qualifications are advantageous
Career Outlook
General Managers in the security industry are in demand, especially in sectors like retail, logistics, energy, and private estates where large security workforces are deployed. With proven experience and leadership ability, GMs can advance to Chief Operating Officer (COO) or even Managing Director (MD) roles within larger organisations or expand into consultancy and compliance auditing.
Conclusion
The role of the General Manager is both demanding and rewarding. It calls for a balance between strategic thinking and hands-on management, between regulatory compliance and commercial growth. For those with a strong operational background and leadership potential, this role offers an excellent opportunity to shape the direction of a company—and elevate the standards of the security industry as a whole.
6. How AI and Robotics Are Changing Security — And How You Can Stay Ahead
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics aren’t just shaping the future—they’re transforming the security industry right now. These technologies are changing how we protect spaces and people. Let’s explore the impact and practical steps security professionals can take to future-proof their careers.
1. What’s Driving Change?
AI Surveillance & Robotics
Industries like perimeter and facility security are adopting AI-enabled cameras, drones, and ground-based robots to monitor large areas 24/7 (securityinformed.com, securityinfowatch.com). These systems never tire and can detect unusual movement more accurately than human guards.Automation of Routine Tasks
AI automates repetitive duties—such as patrolling, logging access, and analysing footage—freeing human staff for priority duties (en.wikipedia.org, securityinformed.com).Enhanced Detection & Response
Robots equipped with sensors can patrol and report anomalies continuously; AI-enabled CCTV reduces false alarms and increases accuracy (reddit.com).
2. What This Means for Security Personnel
Not all roles disappear—many evolve.
High-Risk, People-First Tasks Stay
Jobs requiring empathy, negotiation, human judgment or emergency response remain safe. For example, de‑escalation and access control still rely on human intelligence (scribd.com, reddit.com, securityinformed.com).More Tech-Focused Roles Emerge
Expect growth in positions like robot supervisors, AI system operators, and data analysts to monitor performance and maintain equipment.New Liability and Cyber Risk Awareness
AI systems introduce vulnerabilities. Guards may need training on AI system safety, control, and cyber threats (robquickenden.blog).
3. How to Stay Relevant and Thrive
Here’s how security professionals can prepare:
Action Area Description Upskill & Tech Training Learn to manage AI systems, drones, and monitoring platforms. Taking certification courses in robotics maintenance or AI operations is beneficial. Emphasise Human Skills Focus on strengths like crisis response, empathy, and ethical judgment that machines can’t replicate. Adapt to Hybrid Roles Be ready for mixed roles that combine patrol duties with AI supervision and decision-making. Engage in Safety & Compliance Understand the new regulatory environment for robotic systems and data privacy. Collaborate with Tech Teams Partner with cybersecurity, AI teams, or IT to ensure safe and efficient integration of technology.
4. Why This Matters Now
Organisations using AI and robotics are seeing improved efficiency, cost savings, and safer outcomes(reddit.com, securityinformed.com, securityinfowatch.com).
But human oversight remains essential—particularly for unpredictable situations, public interaction, and system failures.
As AI spreads, there’s growing demand for skilled professionals who can bridge the gap between technology and human-driven protection.
Final Word
AI and robotics are not here to replace security personnel—they’re here to transform the role. The future security workforce will be tech-aware, adaptable, and ready to collaborate with machines. By upskilling, focusing on uniquely human abilities, and embracing hybrid roles, you can ensure your place in a smarter, safer world.
In conclusion:
That’s it for this week’s edition! We hope you found it informative and of value. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with your colleagues.
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