Bidvest Noonan

A market leading provider of facilities services and solutions

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Bidvest Noonan to Chair Global Initiative on Tall Building Security

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Bidvest Noonan has partnered with The Institute of Strategic Risk Management (ISRM) to launch a Special Interest Group dedicated to supporting the global tall-building sector. With a strong track record of securing high-profile tall buildings, Bidvest Noonan will chair this initiative.

The Special Interest Group will focus on identifying and understanding threats while developing insights and solutions to address the challenges the sector faces. The group will bring key stakeholders together, including service providers, property managers, blue light networks and others, to advance knowledge, share insights, and establish frameworks that contribute to a safer, more resilient built environment.

Dr David Rubens, Executive Director at the ISRM, said: “The pace of change in today’s world is accelerating, creating new risks that cannot be tackled in isolation. This Special Interest Group provides an essential platform for bringing together expertise from across the industry to help organisations anticipate and navigate emerging threats. I want to thank Bidvest Noonan for their leadership in this initiative.”

Liz Cummins, Managing Director at Bidvest Noonan, added:

“While every city and building is unique, many challenges and emerging threats in securing tall buildings are shared worldwide. That is why we are so pleased to work with the ISRM to bring together industry leaders, share insights, and help shape best practices for the future. We look forward to collaborating with stakeholders and sharing the expertise we have developed in supporting iconic tall buildings.”

Photo caption: (Left to right: Ian Martin, Director of Risk and Intelligence, Bidvest Noonan; Liz Cummins, Managing Director, Bidvest Noonan; Dr David Rubens, Executive Director, The ISRM; Cormac Sheils, Chief Operating Officer, Bidvest Noonan.)

Training for Emerging Threats: Integrating Risk & Intelligence with Ian Martin

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Security teams need effective training now more than ever. Whether dealing with well-known threats like terrorism and crime or confronting newer challenges like cyber-attacks, the right training makes all the difference. I have found that taking a multi-dimensional approach to training is key to staying ahead of both familiar and emerging threats.

The risks we face are always changing. Terrorism, organised crime, theft, and violence are becoming more complex. Adversaries are constantly adapting, using new tactics and technologies to further their goals. These days, cyber attacks are part of the mix, not just stealing data but also potentially compromising physical safety by disrupting security measures. As threats evolve, security teams need to be prepared to manage both physical and digital risks. Developing strong intelligence frameworks and establishing effective communication mechanisms are crucial. They not only drive operational responses but also help formulate the training requirements needed to mitigate these threats.

The security training we provide has to give teams the tools they need to stay ahead of threats and protect the people, property, and assets in their care. While e-learning programs are great for giving teams the basics and establishing the foundational knowledge security officers need, they are not enough in isolation. Problem-solving is one of the most valuable skills for security teams, especially in high-pressure situations. Real-world problem-solving skills develop best when people are tested in environments that mirror the conditions they will face. Scenario-based training that immerses teams in realistic situations helps build these crucial capabilities.

I want to see broader adoption of scenario-based and hands-on training across the industry. Practical exercises like live drills, tabletop discussions, and crisis simulations prepare teams to make fast, sound decisions under pressure, whether addressing a terrorist incident, a physical security breach, or a digital attack. Technology can be a part of this. We are seeing exciting developments in training technologies. Immersive systems are delivering real value to our teams. In our business, we use virtual reality (VR) and digital twinning platforms to allow our teams to practice responding to high-risk scenarios in a safe, controlled environment. We can simulate anything from terrorist attacks to shoplifting, giving our security teams a chance to rehearse their responses in real-time. As the technology continues to advance, AI will become increasingly important in security training, offering the ability to simulate complex scenarios quickly and inexpensively.

While these technologies offer valuable benefits, I still view them as supplementary tools rather than complete replacements for in-person training. Real-world exercises remain essential. The combination of technology and in-person training provides the most well-rounded preparation for security teams.

Good training is even more effective when combined with the insights of a diverse team. People with different backgrounds bring different perspectives, which can help detect and mitigate threats. For example, on a recent site visit, I met one of our team members who had a customer service background. Her experience in customer service gave her a keen eye for details and the ability to quickly read body language. Following her security training, she developed an amazing ability to identify behavioural cues that could indicate a security risk. The diversity of experience and skills within a team leads to more comprehensive security solutions.

By combining innovative technologies and immersive, challenging programmes with practical experience, we can ensure our teams are prepared for the threats of tomorrow. With the right approach to training, security teams will be well-positioned to handle any challenges they face.

Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands Launches Green Cleaning on the DLR

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Bidvest Noonan is delighted to announce a landmark sustainable cleaning initiative in partnership with KeolisAmey Docklands, the operator of the DLR. We aim to substantially increase the sustainability of cleaning operations by eliminating single-use plastics, reducing packaging by 95%, and cutting product transport-related carbon emissions by 95% across the DLR network.

Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands are introducing a range of innovative cleaning solutions to achieve these ambitious goals. These solutions include pre-dosed formulations supplied in water-soluble sachets. This approach ensures precise usage, reduces waste, and eliminates the risk of chemical overdosing, which can negatively impact the environment.

Our partnership has also transitioned to recyclable packaging with certified compostable pouches, underscoring our commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Adam Prust, Key Account Director at Bidvest Noonan, remarked, “This initiative is a major step forward in our commitment to sustainability. We are protecting the environment and setting a new standard in our commitment for the reduction of single use of plastics across the DLR contract.”

“We are thrilled to partner with KeolisAmey Docklands on this initiative,” said Keith Middleton, Managing Director at Bidvest Noonan. “This collaboration reflects our shared vision of creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment for commuters and staff alike. The new solutions make it easier and safer for our teams to perform their duties efficiently.”

The DLR, the busiest light railway in the UK, serves 100 million passenger journeys per year across its 40 km-long network. By implementing these sustainable practices, Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands are enhancing operational efficiency and significantly contributing to the sustainability of one of the UK’s most vital transport systems.

Bidvest Noonan Achieves Milestone with First Comprehensive Carbon Footprint Assessment

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We are delighted to announce the completion of our first comprehensive carbon footprint assessment. This landmark achievement underscores our commitment to sustainability and our mission to create safer and healthier communities.

“Our first full carbon footprint assessment is a testament to our transparency and accountability,” said John King, ESG Director of Bidvest Noonan. “Our footprint demonstrates the work we have done in recent years. Understanding our emissions allows us to take meaningful steps to reduce our environmental impact and provide sustainable solutions for our clients.”

The assessment adheres to the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol and the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) standards.

The process involved a detailed analysis of emissions from the supply chain, employee commuting, fleet operations, and more. By engaging with suppliers and various departments, we identified key impact areas and opportunities for emission reductions.

“For customers, this signifies that Bidvest Noonan offers not only market-leading services but also environmentally conscious solutions, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable practices,” added John King.

Key findings showed that the supply chain and employee commuting are primary contributors to emissions, accounting for the vast majority of our footprint. Our business, which has adopted an electric-first policy for our fleet, has also implemented local recruitment policies, cycle-to-work schemes, and public transport initiatives to promote sustainable commuting for our 27,000 people. Additionally, we are working collaboratively with supply chain partners to further reduce scope 3 emissions.

Andrew Doyle, Procurement Director, commented on our efforts to assist the supply chain in becoming more sustainable: “We are actively working with our suppliers to enhance their sustainability practices. By collaborating closely and sharing best practices, we aim to reduce the overall environmental impact of our supply chain.”

David Barker joins Bidvest Noonan as Chief Growth Officer

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We are delighted to announce that David Barker has joined us as Chief Growth Officer. David joins our executive team and will take responsibility for the growth and development of our group.

A seasoned leader, David has a wealth of experience garnered across diverse industries and multiple geographies. He has deep expertise in solution design and a long and successful track record of building high-performing business development teams. In his most recent role, David led sales for Aramark across Northern Europe.

Commenting on David’s appointment, Declan Doyle, Bidvest Noonan CEO said: “I’m delighted to welcome David to our team. David’s strategic insight, proven expertise in driving growth, and his exceptional ability to build strong, collaborative teams stand out. I have every confidence in David’s success at Bidvest Noonan and I’m looking forward to working with David to grow our business.”

David Barker added: “I’m honoured to join Bidvest Noonan as Chief Growth Officer. Bidvest Noonan is an excellent company with a strong reputation in the market for innovation, sustainability and looking after the wellbeing of its people. I’m looking forward to working with all of my new colleagues to grow this business and deliver more value to our customers.

Bidvest Noonan Appoints Keith Middleton as Managing Director of its Transport Sector Business

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We are delighted to announce we have appointed Keith Middleton as Managing Director for our Transport Sector Business.

Serving airports, ports, bus operators, and rail operators throughout the UK and Ireland, our work positively impacts over 1.5 billion passenger journeys annually, solidifying our position as a key player in the transport sector.

With over three decades of experience, Keith has a successful track record in the facilities services industry. His extensive experience in the industry and transport sector uniquely qualifies him to lead Bidvest Noonan’s transport sector business.

Commenting on Keith’s appointment, CEO Jeff Flanagan, said, “Keith is a seasoned leader with drive and ambition; his impressive background and extensive industry experience make him a perfect fit for our business. Our transport sector business has secured several exciting contracts this year, and I am confident that under Keith’s leadership, the business will go from strength to strength.”

Sharing his enthusiasm about his new role, Keith remarked, “I’m delighted to have joined Bidvest Noonan. The company is increasingly known for its dedication to innovation, sustainability, and the wellbeing of its people. I’m excited about the impact I can make here and am looking forward to working with my new colleagues.”