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Top 10 Under 40: Chris Neumann, President & CEO, Security ONE Alarm Systems, 33

What is the first task you take care of in a typical working day?

A good day for me starts with some version of movement/exercise to get my body and mind ready for the day. I also enjoy the early morning moments with my daughter, son and wife before the day kicks into high gear. To shift into work mode, I like to review my calendar to re-prioritize my day and check in with our leadership team to see where I can support them that day.

What do you enjoy most about the security profession?

First and foremost, it is a very rewarding profession. The services our team delivers provide incredible peace of mind for our customers, aid in deterring crime and in many incidents, save lives. Combine that with exciting technology that is ever-evolving, great people and a recurring revenue business model — it’s a perfect recipe for a great career.

Do you have any tips for achieving a successful work-life balance?

I think it is Jeff Bezos who talks a lot about work-life integration versus balance. Balance inherently indicates a trade-off, either in your personal life or work, depending on which way the scale shifts. I tend to view this similarly in the sense that ultimately if things are going well at home, you come to work with more energy and vice-versa. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to ensure their work role and family/personal commitments can be integrated in a way they deem successful.

How can the security industry draw more young people and newcomers to the profession?

I think it is an under-the-radar industry that definitely does not get enough credit. It seems like most industry professionals, similar to myself, “accidentally” found themselves in our industry and did not intentionally seek it out. I’m hopeful as the industry grows and programs with post-secondary schools gain more traction, word will spread and it will become more of a planned career destination.