GUK, one of the country’s most innovative security companies has appointed Michelle Smith to be Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Michelle joined the company earlier this year as Vice President bringing a wealth of experience and expertise having worked at senior level for many blue chip brands.
Major Frank Quigley, who has been running the company for the past decade said: “I am delighted to announce that Michelle Smith has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of GUK with immediate effect. She will be focussed on driving the business forward, equipping the company for the next stage of future development.”
Michelle has spent many years in the aviation industry progressing through a diverse range of appointments, from facilities management and business development to senior marketing, public relations and strategic communications roles. Leading on many complex projects from crisis management planning, customer focussed programmes and business transformation, to parliamentary and regulatory affairs and rebranding.
In her last role as Head of Passenger Welfare for Heathrow Airport, Michelle developed and led new initiatives to enhance customer experience and business continuity and resilience during times of major disruption. She said: “During my past career I have gained extensive expertise managing and directing a range of customer related programmes reflecting changing business needs. I’m looking forward to using this experience in my new role at GUK.”
GUK was established on traditional law enforcement and senior military expertise which remains through all levels of the company. Major Peter Rees will continue in his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and will focus on developing and building operations. Michelle’s service delivery background will complement the progressive outlook of GUK.
“GUK is a forward thinking and a service driven organisation and I’m looking forward to leading its dedicated and enthusiastic team. The security business is constantly in the spotlight and reputation management and customer care, along with competitiveness, are areas I believe will play an increasingly significant role in the industry.”
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