From Firefighter and RAF Reservist to Static Guard with Venture
Category: Success Stories
Publish date: 01/02/2023
Having served over 10 years as a Royal Air Force Reserve Officer and holding long service medals for both the fire service and cadet forces; Ludo’s previous experience proved invaluable when making the transition to the security industry.
In 2022, he received an MBE in recognition of his services to the local community and work with the Fire Fighters Charity.
We caught up with Ludo to find out more.
What was your career path before joining Venture?
“I joined Wiltshire Fire Brigade aged 18 and was posted to Salisbury Fire Station – the first step in a 32 year-long career with the fire service!
"At the age of 20 I also applied for a Queen's Commission in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training Branch), where I was responsible for running Air Training Corps Squadrons in the UK.
"For the first two years of my Service life I was a Pilot Officer and appointed as Adjutant to 1010 (City of Salisbury) Squadron ATC. While there, I was responsible for organising Adventure Training, Duke of Edinburgh Awards Schemes, and supporting the annual programme of RAF camps.
"I rose through the ranks to become a Flying Officer, and at the age of 27 was promoted to Flight Lieutenant and posted to RAF Boscombe Down in Wiltshire. I also became a Wing Staff Officer (for the Dorset/Wiltshire Wing of the ATC), responsible for organising all sporting programmes.
"So, in addition to a very busy fire service career, I completed 10 successful years with the RAF - until leaving to get married and start a family.”
Why did you device to work in security?
“Following a career in the fire service where I dealt with a variety of high-pressure incidents and supervised others in emergency situations, I felt that I could bring a calm approach to many of the tasks and challenges faced in the security industry.
"From my time in the RAF, I had also acquired a wealth of transferable skills that leant themselves well to a role in security, including forward planning, strong attention to detail, team building, time management and leadership.”
What does your current role entail?
“I’m currently working as a full-time Static Guard at an Army HQ while also volunteering for extra duties on the events side of things, where I manage the safety of the general public and help protect sites and assets.
"I’ve also assisted English Heritage with security and safety for visitors at Stonehenge.”
What do you enjoy most about working at venture?
“One of the things I enjoy most is the varied challenges of public facing events, especially working as part of a team to achieve a safer environment for the public.
"Venture Security is a well organised and structured company, which has given me an opportunity to undertake an interesting range of local assignments.”
Top tip for others thinking of working in security?
“There’s an increasing demand for security operatives out there, both part-time and full-time. So, why not identify the training you’d need to undertake to gain the various licences for security work - such as the Door Supervisor Licence – and get started on a new career.”
To find out more about opportunities at Venture, search for us on RightJob under the Company Name “Venture Security Management Ltd”.