Our People
At Skills for Security, our people are at the heart of everything we do because their passion, expertise, and commitment drive our mission to shape a safer, smarter future through world-class training.
Our team’s deep understanding of the Fire and Security sector allows us to deliver innovative, industry-leading training that meets the evolving needs of both learners and employers. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, we equip our learners with the skills and confidence to thrive in their careers, ensuring that the sector remains at the forefront of safety and security. Keep scrolling to hear what our a few of our team members have to say about working at Skills for Security!
David Scott
Role: Managing Director
I joined Skills for Security back in 2019 and I’m proud to have led the business through a period of exceptional growth and innovation. Since joining, I’ve been part of the transformation in becoming the national leader in apprenticeship delivery and technical training. With a background in education and workforce development, I’m driven by a passion for removing barriers to learning and expanding access to high-quality training. Under my leadership, we have widened participation across the UK, opened six new training centres, launched digital learning platforms, and developed strategic partnerships that make education more inclusive, accessible, and impactful for learners and employers alike.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
James Gribben
Role: Commercial Director
I joined Skills for Security in June 2023, moving across from the BSIA. My specialty lies in sales, marketing, and commercial operations, having previously obtained a Marketing Degree and an MBA from the University of Manchester Business School. I entered the security industry in 2009, working for several global brands, including United Technologies and Tyco.
In my role at Skills for Security, I lead our sales, marketing, and talent acquisition teams, alongside my experienced management team. I joined Skills for Security because I believe in the company’s mission and wanted to work with like-minded professionals who strive to grow our business for the betterment of the sector.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Kerry Harding
Role: Director of People
I joined Skills for Security in 2024 as Director of People, bringing a strong background in HR leadership. My career has been driven by a passion for creating positive workplace cultures, empowering teams, and aligning people strategies with business goals. At Skills for Security, I’m proud to support the growth and development of our talented workforce, helping to shape a people-first culture across the organisation. I work closely with colleagues across all departments to ensure we attract, retain, and nurture top talent, while championing diversity, wellbeing, and professional development at every level of the business.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Richard Cooper
Role: Director of Education
Jamie Simpson
Role: Finance Director
I bring extensive experience in financial leadership, having worked with fast-growing companies across a range of tech-driven and innovation-led sectors. Over the years, I’ve built a strong track record in scaling businesses by developing and implementing robust financial strategies, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring long-term sustainability. My expertise spans budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and stakeholder management, all of which support strategic decision-making at the highest level. In my current role, I play a key role in shaping the financial direction of the organisation, identifying opportunities for growth, managing risk, and ensuring that we remain financially agile and resilient in a dynamic market.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Darrell Gilmour
Role: Director of Technical Training
I’m the Director of Technical Training at Skills for Security, with over 14 years of experience in the fire and security industry. I began my career as an FESST Apprentice in 2011, winning national accolades and finding an industry I felt very passionate about. My experience spans designing, commissioning, and managing advanced security and life safety systems, which led me into roles in solutions design, business development, and training. Since moving into academia in 2018, I’ve been dedicated to shaping the next generation of security professionals. Most recently, I led the development of our commercial training offerings, and Skills On-Demand, our online training platform.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Gavin Wilson
Role: Head of Sales
In nearly 20 years in the security industry, one question I’ve heard time and again from professional installation companies is: “Do you know any good engineers?” This constant demand highlights a clear and ongoing skills gap in our industry.
Skills for Security is tackling this challenge head-on by training the next generation of engineers and empowering young people with meaningful career paths.
Their mission to build a stronger, more professional workforce is one I fully believe in. I’m proud to support a future and industry where quality and opportunity go hand in hand.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Jon Ansty
Role: Head of Quality and Designated Safeguarding Lead
With over 25 years of experience in apprenticeships, I joined Skills for Security to champion quality in education and training. My role focuses on supporting staff development in teaching, learning, and assessment, ensuring our apprentices receive exceptional guidance from their Learning Support Coaches and Functional Skills tutors. I’m passionate about creating positive, enriching learning experiences that help apprentices thrive. As the organisation’s safeguarding lead, I am committed to upholding high standards of support for all learners and ensuring staff are equipped with the knowledge and awareness needed to maintain a safe, supportive environment for everyone at Skills for Security.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Ben Armstrong
Role: Head of Apprenticeships
I joined Skills for Security in April 2025. I have a successful background in education management, leadership, and operations across a range of FE colleges and independent training providers in the UK. I’m passionate about ensuring that our apprentices have the highest quality training whilst studying with us, and work tirelessly to ensure that our apprentices leave Skills For Security with the ability to achieve great things in the Fire and Security sector. My personal goal is to achieve an Ofsted ‘Exemplary’ grade at Skill For Security.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Jade Wilson
Role: Head of Data & MIS
As Head of Data & MIS I am responsible for ensuring that we are fully compliant with DfE funding rules. I have over 12 years of experience working in the industry and began my career as an Admissions Officer at a small training provider, where my love of spreadsheets and all things data began. Since joining Skills for Security in January 2023 I have been involved in the migration of our data to the LMS Bud. I lead on implementing annual funding rule changes throughout the business, manage the reporting of our QAR and validate the quality of our data to ensure that we are always audit ready, submitting accurate and timely ILR submissions to claim funds from the apprenticeship levy.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Mollie Evans
Role: Marketing & Sponsorship Manager
As Marketing & Sponsorship Manager at Skills for Security, I focus on building meaningful relationships, securing impactful partnerships, and enhancing our presence across the fire and security industry. I lead campaigns that drive engagement, support learner recruitment, and position us as a trusted, forward-thinking training provider. Passionate about connecting people and purpose, I work closely with industry partners to create opportunities that support growth, innovation, and long-term value for both our learners and the wider sector.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Leah Forsyth
Role: National Business Development Manager
I joined Skills for Security in 2022, initially working in Operations before transitioning into a Business Development role. This move gave me a broader perspective on the company and allowed me to work more closely with clients. My day-to-day now involves expanding our employer network, engaging with both existing and prospective partners, and clearly communicating the full scope of what Skills for Security offers. It’s been a rewarding journey so far, full of valuable learning experiences and the kind of challenges that drive real growth.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Ian Stringer
Role: FESST Curriculum Lead
With 20 years in the fire and security industry, I bring hands-on experience and a deep passion for the field. I joined Skills in 2019 as a FESST tutor, supporting apprentices through practical/theoretical, real-world training. In 2022, I became Curriculum Lead, where I now focus on keeping our programme aligned with industry/educational standards and emerging technologies. I work closely with manufacturers to ensure our content is always current. I’m committed to delivering high-quality training and passing on the knowledge and skills needed to help learners thrive in this fast-moving industry.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
