IRVINE, Calif. — Like most people in the security industry, Tia Eskandari didn’t dream about her current career path when she was growing up. But, also like most people in the security industry, she is happy with where the road has taken her and how she’s landed as senior director of national service at Allied Universal.
Here’s more from Eskandari, in her own words as our celebration of International Women’s History Month stretches into April.
Security Sales & Integration: How did you get into the security industry?
Tia Eskandari: A very good friend of mine, Cindy Spurgeon, introduced me to the security industry. I have an extensive background in retail operations management and I had never considered security as a career. The security technology industry intrigued me and, after 18 years in retail management, I decided to make a career pivot in 2018.
I joined G4S Secure Integration as the regional service manager for the Southwest region. In 2021, G4S was acquired by Allied Universal Technology Services and I became the director of service for the Southwest region. In early 2024, I was promoted to the role of senior director of national field service.
SSI: Have you encountered any difficulties or obstacles in your security industry career?
Eskandari: Imposter syndrome was the most significant obstacle I’ve had to overcome. Joining a new organization in an unfamiliar industry can bring up all sorts of insecurities that tend to show up in the strangest ways.
It was finding my voice and being comfortable speaking the technical language. I did not have a security background, but I did have the leadership experience I leaned into. Oftentimes, I would be the only female at the table, and I had to learn to navigate into the discussions and be heard.
SSI: Whom would you point to as the most influential and helpful mentors in your career? What did they do to help you?
Eskandari: I have been fortunate to have received tremendous support as I transitioned into the industry. When you enter a male-dominated industry, finding the support you need to get started can be challenging. I was lucky enough to have great male allies with a wealth of industry knowledge and they helped bring me along.
I have amazing female colleagues, but I wanted to meet other amazing women in the industry, so I started to network. I found my tribe through the SIA Women in Security Forum, the PSA Women’s Committee, Women of Project Management and the ASIS Women in Security Steering Committee.
Peer mentoring was also integral in helping me dial into my confidence. Phil Young, Tracy Senstock, Carla Manzanilla and Maria Molina, thank you for supporting me.
SSI: What is your proudest career accomplishment?
Eskandari: Although I have not been in the industry very long, I have experienced some fantastic opportunities that have helped me feel confident that this is where I belong. In 2022, I was one of eight recipients of the Women in Security Forum Scholarship, which was an enriching experience.
This was the first time in my career that I decided to place my personal growth at the forefront. The application process forced me to think about what I wanted my personal brand to be and I saw this as a rebirth of my professional career. I do not take any opportunities I am for granted in this industry. I am dedicated to passing those opportunities to other women so they can experience what I felt early on in my career in the industry.
SSI: What do you love most about working in the security industry?
Eskandari: Networking and supporting other women in our industry. When I joined the security technology industry in 2018, women comprised 11% of the global security workforce. In 2024, women accounted for 25%, and 31% of those roles were in leadership.
The landscape is changing and participating in the evolution is terrific. So many women are joining the committees and attending conferences, such as the LeadHER Conference held by SIA and ASIS. The future is bright and I am excited about what is ahead.
SSI: How can the security industry become even better?
Eskandari: Keep opening doors and opportunities for change. We are just scratching the surface of what our industry can become. I would encourage anyone looking to make a difference to consider peer mentoring. Your experiences and knowledge will hold value to someone looking for the right opportunity to grow in the industry.
I am grateful for those who helped shape my path and I cannot imagine my career without that support. We should all do what we can.
Click here to check out the entire Women in Security Q&A series!
https://www.securitysales.com/news/women-in-security-tia-eskandari-allied-universal/610900/