Debbie Cassie
Debbie Cassie is Co-owner of Executive Security Solutions Ltd (ESS), she is passionate about offering employment emphasising on supporting ex-veterans with a stable work environment, fostering family values within a harmonious culture.
This includes valuing people, applying ‘best practice’ listening, and making a difference, building a visible and sustainable security company.
- Tell us a little bit about your business…
My husband and I embarked on our entrepreneurial journey in January 2012, driven by a desire to forge our own path and improve working conditions in the security industry, especially for ex-veterans. Our focus is on delivering top-tier security services to the ultra-high net worth market.
- How did you get into the industry?
Back in my 20s, I began helping a family member with his security business. My initial role involved dictating undercover transcripts, which I later understood supported significant undercover journalism cases. During the late ’90s, I was fortunate enough to be part of an incredibly skilled team, where I learned surveillance techniques from some of the best in the field.
- What are the biggest opportunities and challenges in your industry?
One challenge I’ve faced in the security industry is navigating it as a woman who doesn’t have a military or police background, especially since it’s predominantly male environment. On the flip side, the greatest opportunities have come from the diverse array of people I’ve met and the incredible places I’ve been able to visit worldwide.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
Fair and inclusive, promoting a culture where leadership is encouraged and embraced by everyone in our business.
- How do you get the most out of the people who work for you?
It’s all about recognising each person’s unique strengths and encouraging them to shine. Our commitment to our team extends beyond professional growth; we deeply care about providing an excellent work-life balance. This not only shows we value their well-being but also empowers them to take ownership and accountability in their roles. By caring and supporting each other’s growth, we all move forward together.
- What are the most crucial elements to your business running smoothly and being successful?
Our teams are at the heart of everything we do. Their dedication, understanding, and commitment to meeting the high standards ESS sets for delivering exceptional service, along with added value, are what make us stand out to our clients.
- How has the past 12 months been for you?
The past year has truly been an exciting journey, full of growth and change both in our work and personal lives! We’ve worked hard to build an amazing team at HQ, with our Senior Leadership Team fully engaged in steering our growth. It’s been a lesson in pushing ourselves to work harder, smarter, and more efficiently to set ESS on the best possible course, ensuring we attract the right talent to propel our vision forward.
- What will the next 12 months look like for your business?
This year promises to be a thrilling period for us. So far, our expansion has been beautifully organic, driven by the recommendations of our existing clients, their fixers, and family offices. This year, we’re focusing on enhancing our marketing strategies and fine-tuning our specialised services. We’re also looking forward to collaborating with businesses that align with our values.
- What are the highlights of your career so far?
One of the highlights of my career is creating a business from the ground up with my husband. Our journey together is quite unique, stretching over four decades without much formal education and entirely self-funded.
- What’s the biggest business mistake that you’ve learnt from?
I reached a moment where I felt my business was running me instead of the other way around. Every day is still a learning journey for me. Through some tough lessons, I’ve realised the importance of bringing in talented individuals to help with the everyday operations of the business.
- What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
It’s a mash of learning from a host of business and self-development books, podcasts, and speaking with other business owners that provides me with support and wisdom. In essence, I often reflect on quotes such as:
‘Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.’ ~ Maya Angelou.
‘If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way’ ~ Napolean Hill.
