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Top 10 Under 40: Brandon Baum, Chief security officer, Protection Plus Inc., 24

What does your typical day look like? Tell us more about your security roles and responsibilities.
As CSO, I am responsible for our locksmith and physical security divisions. I regularly deal with our manufacturer and supplier relationships. I also coordinate our installation work and direct our project managers on scopes of work. In addition, I supervise our government contracts and ULC Certified installations.

What do you enjoy most about working in the security industry?
The industry is rapidly evolving. There is so much to learn as there are new technologies coming out every day. Sometimes it is hard to keep track of all the innovation, but this makes it exciting and keeps our customers engaged. I am always on the hunt for new and exciting products and software to keep Protection Plus at the leading edge of security solutions.

What are your career goals for the future and how do you plan to achieve them?
My career goals are to keep Protection Plus at the forefront of residential and commercial security. I hope to take over the company from my parents one day. They started Protection Plus in 1994. Since then, we have made huge strides in the industry, and I hope to continue that growth.

What have you learned about the security industry during your career and what advice would you pass on to newcomers?
The learning never stops. I continue to learn every day. Having said that, there are two main lessons I would pass on. Firstly, you must make sure you are dealing with reputable manufacturers and suppliers. Some Canadian provinces do not require special permits and/or licensing to operate in electronic and physical security. It is easy to get caught up in a good deal. However, when dealing with something as sensitive as people’s safety, you must make sure you know with whom you are dealing. This also applies to working in the security industry. Secondly, our industry is full of knowledge and information. Make good connections and talk to people. You would be surprised how many people are willing to share their wisdom (even to competitors) to make the industry better as a whole. If you are willing to help others, they will always return the favour.