Championing Change: Encouraging More Women into Security

Michelle McGarry Leads the Charge to Bring More Women into Security

With nearly three decades of experience at Tesco and a seamless transition into the security industry, Michelle’s career has always centred around people; leading, supporting, and empowering teams to succeed. Her close collaboration with security teams throughout her time at Tesco laid a strong foundation for her next chapter at Argenbright Security Europe Ltd (ASEL).

Starting as a Regional Operations Manager in Ireland, Michelle quickly rose through the ranks to become Zonal Operations Manager, overseeing operations across Ireland and the South of the UK. In April, her journey came full circle when she was appointed Tesco Account Manager, officially stepping into the role on May 1st.

From the outset, Michelle has prioritised connection and trust, spending time with Officers on-site, learning their stories, and creating a culture where everyone feels respected and valued. That personal approach led to a visible shift in morale, performance, and team cohesion.

“I’ve always believed that when people feel seen and supported, they perform at their best,” Michelle says. “Security is no different.”

Over the years, she’s seen first-hand how the role of a Security Officer has evolved. No longer defined by confrontation or enforcement, today’s officers focus on presence, professionalism, and protection. Tesco has played a leading role in redefining what modern security looks like, championing de-escalation techniques, prioritising customer and colleague safety, and building teams equipped with strong interpersonal skills.

It’s this shift that has inspired Michelle to champion a recruitment drive to bring more women into the industry.

“The skills women bring; empathy, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, are exactly what today’s security landscape demands,” she explains. “Now more than ever, we need diverse voices and perspectives to build truly effective teams.”

Michelle’s message is clear: security is no longer a male-dominated space. It’s a profession with purpose, impact, and room for all. And she’s committed to opening the door wider for the next generation of women to walk through.

Interested in joining our team?
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