2026 Winners’ Summaries
Outstanding In-House Security Manager/Director
John O’Donoghue – Uisce Éireann
John O’Donoghue is a strategic leader who has strengthened the security of critical national infrastructure through a National Site Security Risk Management Programme, addressing vulnerabilities to protect both business and the public. He pioneered a national mechatronic locking programme to give frontline staff full accountability for site security and led a streamlined tendering process to establish a single security supplier while enhancing collaboration with state services. Judges praised his excellent strategic leadership, noting his strong control over a complex portfolio of sites and staff and his impressive results.
Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director
Rebecca Kane – Bidvest Noonan
Rebecca Kane is a transformational leader whose rapid rise and exceptional performance have set a new benchmark in contract security management, leading a highly complex data centre portfolio with confidence, precision, and strategic insight at just 27. She consistently turns high-pressure challenges into seamless operational success while inspiring teams, elevating standards, and driving continuous improvement. Judges praised her strong emphasis on training and development, describing her submission as exceptional and a true reflection of excellence in the profession.
Outstanding Security Team
Dublin Port Security Team – Manguard Plus
Manguard Plus Dublin Port Security Team safeguards Ireland’s busiest port and critical national infrastructure with an exceptional record, consistently meeting audit standards and delivering rapid incident response. Judges commended their work as a strong example of delivering real value to the client while protecting a vital national resource.
Outstanding Security Company (Guarding)
Integrity Security
Integrity Security has rapidly built a reputation as a trusted leader in the Irish security sector, delivering high-quality services across a wide range of environments. Its success is driven by strong operational growth, a diverse client base, investment in infrastructure, and a positive, inclusive workplace culture supported by an experienced leadership team. Judges highlighted the strength of its client feedback and evidence-based performance, noting it as an excellent example of a company that continues to expand while supporting its workforce and fostering a well-rounded management culture.
Outstanding Security Consultant
Garry Bergin – Manguard Plus
Garry Bergin is a highly credentialed security consultant advising major critical infrastructure, data centre and corporate clients, while also leading Manguard Plus through extensive independent standards and audits. He has authored industry training syllabi, contributes to the development of national standards, and plays an active role in governance, advisory and professional bodies across the sector. Judges highlighted his proven track record and significant impact in crime prevention and industry standards, noting his exceptional knowledge, skill and experience and describing him as highly impressive and clearly outstanding.
Outstanding Security Training Initiative
World-Class Open Source Intelligence Training – The OSINT Group
The OSINT Group (TOG), led by ex-military intelligence expert Ben Owen and former Met Police undercover specialist Danni Brooke, delivers innovative OSINT training trusted by major global organisations across multiple sectors. Their structured programme combines practical, real-world application with adaptive learning to equip professionals with the skills to detect digital threats early and improve investigative efficiency. Judges noted the clear structure of the training and its measurable impact on a global scale.
Outstanding Security Installer/ Integrator
Zak Shingler – Manguard Plus
Zak Shingler, Lead Maintenance Engineer at Manguard Plus, has transformed complex security environments into robust, integrated and future-proof systems. He has led major infrastructure projects, delivering reliable and cyber-aware solutions while maintaining high installation standards and supporting the development of future talent in the sector. Judges commended his exceptional attention to detail, highlighting the efficiency of the systems he installs and his strong commitment to mentoring apprentices to the highest standards.
Outstanding Security Partnership
The ISRM Ireland Chapter Partnership IFPO, EMII, IAFIE and Azure Forum
The ISRM Ireland Chapter partnership with IFPO Ireland, EMII, IAFIE and The Azure Forum has created a high-impact ecosystem for security learning and collaboration across the sector. Through flagship programmes such as Project Sentinel OSINT and Next Gen Catalyst, it delivers realistic tabletop exercises for multi-sector professionals at all levels, strengthening crisis decision-making, OSINT governance and leadership capability across Ireland’s security community. Judges described it as very impressive and leader-driven, noting the highest level of partnership and its significant impact across the security sector.
Outstanding Security Officer
Jalna Cunningham- Bidvest Noonan
Jalna Cunningham of Bidvest Noonan makes a significant contribution to her team and customers, consistently demonstrating dedication, professionalism and care in her role. She approaches daily challenges with resilience and a strong commitment to supporting her colleagues and those she interacts with, bringing passion, grace and dignity to her work. Judges recognised her as an outstanding individual, noting her professional and empathetic approach and describing her as a perfect example of an outstanding human being.
Outstanding Female Security Professional
Vivian Sedikou – CIS Security
Vivian Sedikou is an exceptional Security Manager who progressed rapidly from frontline officer to senior leadership, demonstrating outstanding performance and leadership capability. She leads security across multiple major corporate buildings, improving compliance, strengthening operational standards, and developing future talent through structured KPIs, audits and mentoring. Judges described her as an excellent candidate and highlighted her strong professionalism.
Outstanding Young Security Professional
Alan Kavanagh- Bidvest Noonan
Alan Kavanagh is an exceptional security leader whose professionalism, calm decision-making, and customer-focused approach have strengthened site operations since joining Bidvest Noonan. Trusted by clients and vendors, he consistently delivers high-quality service while driving improvements, playing a key role in training new officers and fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence. Judges recognised his remarkable impact and successful transition into leadership, noting his ability to manage and inspire others as a strong credit to his capability.
Outstanding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative – CIS Security
CIS Security Ltd has strengthened Equality, Diversity and Inclusion within the security sector through achieving ISO 30415 for Diversity and Inclusion and BS 30480 Suicide Prevention in the Workplace accreditation. By embedding inclusive recruitment pathways for individuals from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds, the company has improved access to security careers while enhancing operational performance and retention. Judges highlighted the development of wellbeing pathways and embedded support mechanisms across the organisation, noting improved staff retention and development alongside the impressive Shout-Out app.
Outstanding Security Sustainability Award
Nicholas Bourke – Port of Cork Company
Nicholas Bourke, Harbour Master at the Port of Cork, has shown exceptional leadership in integrating security and sustainability across port operations. He has led initiatives to improve energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and modernise security infrastructure, strengthening safety while supporting sustainable practices and operational resilience. Judges noted that he demonstrates a strategic approach to sustainability.
Lifetime Achievement
John Byrne
John Byrne, Chief Executive Officer of the Security Institute of Ireland, brings extensive experience across military, police, and private security sectors. He has played a key role in developing comprehensive security training programmes aligned with regulatory, operational and ethical requirements, integrating research-led approaches, digital learning and continuous professional development to strengthen workforce capability. Judges highlighted his long-standing contribution to the security sector, noting his innovation in developing training with partners and his major impact in driving improved quality, enhanced standards and world-class training across the industry.