Sunstates Security

National provider of contract security guard services

2018 WINNERS OF 50 FASTEST GROWING WOMEN-OWNED/LED COMPANIES ANNOUNCED BY WOMEN PRESIDENTS’ ORGANIZATION

 Sunstates Security Recognized at 11TH Annual Awards Ceremony Held in Los Angeles

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Image for Women's Presidents' Organization PostRaleigh, N.C. – May 23, 2018 – The Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO) has announced the 11th annual ranking of the 50 Fastest-Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies during the WPO Annual Conference held this year in Los Angeles. The companies featured on this year’s 50 Fastest list include a variety of industries — such as technology, finance, retail and entrepreneurial ventures. With aggregate revenues of $8.3 billion, this number is up $1 billion from last year’s ranking.

Kathryn Burrell, CEO, Sunstates Security based in Raleigh, N.C. has been ranked 47th among this year’s WPO 50 Fastest-Growing list.

Kathryn co-founded Sunstates Security with Glenn Burrell in 1998 and is active in every aspect of the company’s operation. Her role is critical in giving support to internal corporate functions and attending to vital client expectations of responsiveness and efficiency. Before launching the privately owned Sunstates Security, Kathryn was working as a partner in a multimillion-dollar, family business in the UK.

Sunstates Security is an industry leader with a differentiated approach to providing quality contract security services to Fortune 500 companies, municipalities and small business entities throughout the United States. Sunstates has millions of hours of contract security experience, and all the resources and strength you expect from the largest providers, but our organization is uniquely structured to ensure consistently superior, client-centric service at the local level, with over 2,000 employees nationwide.

“Since 2007, the WPO launched the listing of the 50 Fastest-Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies to focus much-needed attention on the vital role that women-owned/led companies have in boosting the economy and enhancing overall job growth,” notes WPO President and Founder Dr. Marsha Firestone. “We are proud that Kathryn is among the unique women business leaders facing challenges yet rising to accelerate the growth of her business in today’s consistently growing economic landscape.”

All eligible companies were ranked according to a sales growth formula, combining percentage and absolute growth. To qualify for the ranking, businesses are required to be privately-held, woman-owned/led companies and have reached annual revenue of at least $500,000 as of January 1, 2018. Applicants are not required to be WPO members.

Additional facts about the 2018 WPO 50 Fastest:

– Average age of women-owner/leader is 51; with half of the winners in their 30’s and 40’s
– Aggregate revenue is $8.3 billion, up $1 billion from last year
– Average 2017 revenue was $165.3 million
– Average number of employees on first day: 13; projected average for 2018: 799
– Funding sources at company start:
70% with their own funds
12% with funds from friends and family
4% with a bank loan
8% with a line of credit
4% with a credit card
4% with private investors/angels

The WPO is the premier peer advisory organization connecting women who own multi-million dollar companies. In monthly meetings across six continents, chapters of 20 women presidents from diverse industries invest time and energy in themselves and their businesses to drive their corporations to the next level. Local WPO chapters are coordinated by a professional facilitator and meet monthly to share business expertise and experience in a confidential setting. For more information, contact 212-688-4114 or visit www.womenpresidentsorg.com. Follow the WPO on Twitter @womenpresidents and Facebook @TheWPO.

Contact:
Andrea Pass
Marketing Maven
Andrea@MarketingMaven.com
646-661-2203 Office
201-873-6087 Mobile

Susan Johnson
Women Presidents’ Organization
sjohnson@womenpresidentsorg.com
(212) 688-4114 Office
(917) 601-5778 Mobile

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Training Spotlight: Fighting Violence with PreparednessImage for Fighting Violence with Preparedness - Security Specialist

On September 11, 2016, Sunstates Security Officer Antoine Worsley of Raleigh, N.C., received the Ralph Day Security Officer Heroism Award from the ASIS International Security Services Council. The award recognized Worsley’s life-saving heroism on January 12, 2016, when he responded to a fight outside his assigned office building.

Three men were punching and kicking a fourth man, on the ground, who had previously attempted to rob one of his attackers. Worsley advised the individuals to “go their separate ways.” As the group dispersed, the man on the ground pulled out a knife and stabbed one of his assailants multiple times.

The armed man continued to threaten the other individuals, even after learning the police were en route. Worsley approached him from behind and grabbed his arm, forcing him to drop the weapon. The man was detained until police arrived and EMS provided medical assistance. Medics later revealed that one of the wounds was near fatal and that additional injury could have resulted in death.

The story had a happy ending, thanks to Worsley’s training and quick response. But how do you assess the effectiveness of a security company’s training program before an incident?

What to Look for in Security Training

One challenge in vetting security partners lies in the fact that everyone makes the same claims. Use these guidelines to dig beyond the marketing hype:

  • Training curriculum. Do they have a skilled, in-house team that develops their materials? Do they outsource training to a reputable third party? Perhaps they combine proprietary and external programs, such as the Crisis Prevention Institute’s Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Training. (Hint: A collection of pirated VCR tapes is a bad sign.)
  • Training methods. How are training programs delivered and reinforced? The best programs present information in different ways, testing retention and understanding on an ongoing basis—such as during inspections. Role-playing opportunities can help officers empathize with others as they attempt to defuse a situation.
  • Training metrics. How closely does the company track employee training progress? Are officer training records available for client review? Retention rates should also factor into the equation. Does the firm offer a rotating staff with basic training? Or do they have a stable team that shows continuing advancement?
  • Client support. How can the security firm support internal training efforts? For instance, some companies coordinate active shooter training with local police departments. They may also offer educational seminars on employee awareness and the importance of communication.

For information on how Sunstates Security can help support your employee training efforts, please call us at 866-710-2019 or email us.

Antoine Worsley of Sunstates Security Receives 2016 Ralph Day Award 

ASIS International Recognizes Sunstates Officer for Heroism

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RALEIGH, N.C., September 14, 2016—On September 11, the ASIS International Security Services Council presented the 2016 Ralph Day Security Officer Heroism Award to Officer Antoine Worsley of Sunstates Security. The ceremony took place in Orlando, Fla., at the ASIS International 62nd Annual Seminar and Exhibits.

Antoine Worsley of Sunstates Security, Winner of the ASIS International 2016 Ralph Day Security Officer Heroism Award

Antoine Worsley of Sunstates Security

Named for Ralph D. Day, CPP, a long-time member and supporter of ASIS International, the award recognizes security professionals who perform outstanding service. Worsley, who joined Sunstates in July 2015, embodies the spirit of this honor, as demonstrated by his actions on January 12, 2016.

That evening, Worsley responded to a fight in front of the office building in downtown Raleigh, N.C., where he is assigned. Three men were punching and kicking a fourth man, on the ground, who had previously attempted to rob one of his attackers. Worsley went outside and advised the individuals to “go their separate ways.” As the group dispersed, the person on the ground pulled out a knife and pursued one of the other men, stabbing him multiple times.

The man with the knife continued to threaten the other individuals, even after learning that police were en route. Worsley approached him from behind and grabbed his arm, forcing him to drop the weapon. The man was detained until police arrived and EMS provided medical assistance. Medics later revealed that one of the wounds was near fatal and that additional injury could have resulted in death.

Upon recovering, the victim returned to the site to thank Worsley, saying, “If it weren’t for Officer Worsley, I might not be here.”

Worsley received a check for $5,000 and a plaque at the Orlando ceremony. He was recognized in May 2016 as Security Officer of the Year at the Sunstates Security Annual Managers Conference in Raleigh.

“We are proud of Officer Worsley and thrilled to see him recognized by ASIS International, the leading global organization for security professionals,” says President Glenn Burrell, who founded Sunstates Security after serving 20 years in Scotland Yard. “In addition to his actions on this occasion, he represents exemplary service in his daily commitment and work ethic.”

Based in Raleigh, N.C., Sunstates Security provides uniformed security personnel and security consulting services to clients throughout the United States. The company is certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Greater Business Women’s Council, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

Security Officer Antoine Worsley Recipient of 2016 Ralph Day Heroism Award

logo_asis_officialThe ASIS International Security Services Council is pleased to announce that the 2016 Ralph Day Security Officer Heroism Award recipient is Officer Antoine Worsley of Sunstates Security.

Officer Worsley works at a high-rise facility in downtown Raleigh, N.C. as a third shift full-time officer. He has a tremendous work ethic and has shown himself to be capable of going above and beyond the call of duty on numerous occasions.

Antoine Worsley Recipient of 2016 Ralph Day Award

Antoine Worsley

On January 12, 2016, Officer Worsley responded to a fight in front of the building where he is assigned.  A male was on the ground surrounded by three other males who were punching and kicking him.  It was discovered that the fight was prompted by a prior robbery attempt made by the male on the ground against one of the other males.  Security Officer Worsley observed the altercation and went outside to announce that everyone should “go their separate ways”. The male who was on the ground got up and turned around after separating and ran behind one of the other males and began to stab him with a knife multiple times. Police and EMS were called and Officer Worsley announced to the men that the police were on their way.  The male with the knife still had the knife in hand and rose up in a stabbing position making threats towards other individuals in the area.  Security Officer Worsley approached the male from behind and grabbed his wrist/arm holding the knife and forced him to drop the knife.  The male was detained until police arrived and EMS assisted the injured. The medics later advised that one of the wounds suffered was near fatal and any additional wounds could have resulted in death.

The victim later recovered and returned to the site to thank Officer Worsley. He stated “If it weren’t for Officer Worsley, I might not be here.”

On behalf of our entire council, and our Ralph Day Award committee, we are honored to recognize Officer Worsley for this selfless act of heroism”, Security Services Council Chair Eddie Sorrells commented.  “We received many nominations this year that once again highlighted the professionalism and dedication of Security Officers across this country, and around the globe, that go to work each day with the commitment to do whatever it takes to serve their clients, visitors, and the general public”.

Officer Worsley will be formally presented this Award at the 62nd Annual ASIS International Seminar and Exhibits in Orlando, FL in September.  Sponsored by Council Member Bruce Brownyard and Brownyard Programs Ltd., Officer Worsley will receive a $5000 check, travel to Orlando, and a plaque recognizing his actions.

The Security Services Council established the Ralph Day Security Officer Heroism Award to honor a deserving security professional who performs outstanding service/acts in the security profession. It is named for Ralph D. Day, CPP, a highly regarded figure in the security industry and a long-time member of and contributor to ASIS International.

Sunstates Security Announces Promotion of Denis Kelly to Chief Operating Officer

Sustained, double-digit organic growth creates expanded C-suite for regional security leader

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RALEIGH, N.C., August 15, 2016—Effective immediately, Denis J. Kelly has been promoted to the role of chief operating officer at Sunstates Security, based in Raleigh, N.C. His promotion from executive vice president reflects his expanding leadership responsibilities in a larger organization, the result of sustained annual organic growth averaging an impressive 24% over the past five years.

Denis Kelly Sunstates Security

Denis Kelly
Chief Operating Officer

“Denis has been a key member of Sunstates management since he joined us in 2010 as Vice President,” says CEO Kathryn Burrell. “Not only does he bring extensive industry experience and sound business acumen, but he also shares our commitment to improving the image and reputation of the contract security industry.”

As COO, Kelly will maintain oversight of companywide operations, sales and marketing, and human resources for Sunstates, which provides uniformed security services to a diverse client base throughout the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast and Southwest regions of the United States. During his tenure, Kelly has led the firm’s business development efforts and helped create the operational strategy that allowed Sunstates to triple in size without sacrificing service quality.

“I’m honored to step into this role and excited about the future opportunities for Sunstates,” says Kelly. “I joined the company because I believed in, and shared, the leadership’s vision for the firm and the industry. Together we’ve come a long way toward making that vision a reality, and it’s a testament to the people we serve, both clients and employees.”

Kelly’s 24-plus years of experience in the private security industry spans entry-level operations management to executive-level leadership. He holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and criminal law from Eastern Connecticut State University.

About Sunstates Security
Based in Raleigh, N.C., Sunstates Security provides uniformed security personnel and security consulting services to clients throughout the United States. The company is certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Greater Business Women’s Council, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).