Mike has been part of Security Masters’ security division for four years. As teamleader security, he manages a team of 16 security agents, a position he takes pride and dedication in. In this interview, Mike talks about his career, how he combines his work with a busy family life and his ambitions within the field.
From railroads to security: a new challenge as teamleader security
After 20 years at NMBS, Mike decided it was time for a career switch. “I was looking for a job where I could further develop my qualities and where I could be part of a team that stands for personal contact and growth”, he says. After an Internet search, he ended up at Security Masters. “During the job interviews, I immediately felt a connection. I knew immediately that this was the right choice.”
Since 2020, Mike has been working in the port of Antwerp, where he operates at various locations. He describes his work as varied, educational and challenging. Especially the problem-solving thinking and contact with people appeal to him. “I like to work under pressure. It gives me energy to tackle challenges and make sure everything runs smoothly.”
A busy family life and a passion for sports
In addition to his demanding job as teamleader security, Mike knows how to organize his personal life. As a father in a blended family with three teenagers, this requires tight planning. “Co-parenting is a sport in itself, but with good organization we always manage”, he says with a laugh.
“In urgent situations, we play a crucial role in the safety of the company. That’s what makes our work so valuable.”
Mike’s passion for sports comes through in his role as an athletic trainer, a hobby he enthusiastically pursues three times a week. “I train young athletes and support them during competitions. I also take courses myself to continue to develop my skills as a trainer.”
A day in the life of a teamleader security at Security Masters
Mike’s days start early. “When I get up at 4 a.m., it feels brutal for a while, but as soon as I arrive at work, I’m ready for the day,” he says. Before his shift, he checks his emails to be aware of any details during the night shift.
The day officially starts at 5 a.m. with the change of shifts. “During the briefing, I go through everything carefully and guide my team where necessary. Then I perform control rounds. Such a round takes about 25 minutes”, the teamleader security says with a smile.
After the morning round, the focus is on the hustle and bustle surrounding ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security). “No 2 days are the same. Sometimes the days are quiet, but at other times you suddenly have to deal with urgent situations. At those times, we play a crucial role in company security. That’s what makes my job so valuable.”
Gratitude and growth
Mike has learned a lot in his role at Security Masters, especially within the ISPS domain. “At my start, this was completely new to me, but thanks to the guidance of my mentor Tom, I am now fully mastering it. I am still grateful to him for that.”
“At Security Masters, the distance between management and employees is small. Everything is negotiable.”
His ambition and hunger for growth are undiminished. “I want to continue to develop myself and strive to motivate and inspire my team. My goal is to be both a colleague and a strong people manager.”
Ambitions for the future
Mike has a clear picture of his future within Security Masters. “I would like to become a SUP (Supervisor) so I can be in the field with other security masters. I want to support my colleagues, sharpen our knowledge and make a difference in day-to-day operations. That’s where my talents come into their own.”
With a wink, he adds, “Dreaming is allowed, right? Fortunately, the distance between management and employees at Security Masters is small. Everything can be discussed.”
The power of Security Masters
Mike emphasizes the importance of teamwork and short lines of communication within the company. “At Security Masters, you feel heard. It’s an organization where professionalism and personal commitment go hand in hand.”
Are you looking for a reliable partner to take your security completely off your hands? Security Masters is ready for you with the same dedication and passion Mike shows every day.
