Breaking Barriers: Women Leading in the Security Industry

Despite growing gender diversity in many industries, the security field continues to be largely male-dominated. However, that landscape is evolving as more women in security step into leadership roles, challenge long-standing norms, and contribute to a more inclusive culture. Through mentorship, development programs, and increased visibility, this shift is not only empowering individuals but also driving stronger, more dynamic organizations.

What does it take for women to break through in one of the most male-dominated industries, and how can security companies ensure the next generation of leaders is even more diverse?

In this episode of Security Connected by Securitas North America, host Tommy Zarna, President of the Mobile Region, speaks with three inspiring Securitas leaders: Antonia Elliott, Vice President of Talent Development; Silvia Portillo, Area Vice President for California; and Misty Savage, CPP, Vice President of Training and Development for Global Clients. Together, they reflect on their personal journeys, the systemic changes underway, and the importance of cultivating inclusive workplaces in the security field.

The main topics of conversation…

• Speak Up and Take Up Space: The guests emphasize the importance of women asserting their ideas and presence in a traditionally male-dominated field, encouraging new professionals—and especially women in security—to claim their seat at the table.
• From Frontline to Leadership: Both Portillo and Savage began as security officers and now serve in executive roles—testaments to the impact of hard work, mentorship, and internal development programs like Accelerate and the Executive Development Program.
• Culture and Career Development: Elliott shares how investing in leadership culture, feedback, and continuous learning is transforming the company’s talent strategy and shaping a more resilient workforce.

Antonia Elliott is a global talent development executive with deep expertise in leadership development, performance enablement, and building inclusive, high-performing cultures. As Vice President of Talent Development at Securitas North America, she leads enterprise-wide strategies that impact over 100,000 employees, aligning workforce transformation with business goals. Her career spans roles in organizational development, mergers and acquisitions, and global training, with a proven ability to scale people strategies in complex, matrixed environments.

Silvia Portillo is a seasoned security industry leader with over 26 years at Securitas, currently serving as Area Vice President for the Los Angeles office, overseeing 1,800 security officers. She has risen through the ranks from security officer to executive leadership, with deep experience in personnel management, compliance oversight, and contract fulfillment. Known for driving operational efficiency and service quality, she plays a key role in team development, KPI performance, and client satisfaction across a major metropolitan area.

Misty Savage, CPP, is a security industry veteran with over 23 years of experience, currently serving as Vice President of Training and Development for Global Clients at Securitas. Starting as a security officer, she has progressed through roles in operations, account management, human resources, and training, building a deep understanding of service delivery and team leadership. Her focus today is on developing impactful training programs that elevate talent across the organization, drawing from her expertise in content creation, performance management, and employee development.

Watch the full episode here.