Lifelong Learning Takes Ian to Top Manager Status

After many years working at a senior level in the security industry, Ian Fiddis wanted to develop professionally, and saw an opportunity to improve his management skills with CMI training through South Eastern Regional College (SERC).   

Ian is group performance manager for ViS Security Solutions Ltd and JD McGeown Ltd, as well as currently chairing the NI Fire and Security Employers’ Federation. Ian says his work is varied and demanding, and he wanted to be better equipped to meet the challenges of his role:  

“I head up a small team and I am responsible for Quality, Health and Safety, Environment, HR, Fleet, Budgets and Facilities.  No two days are ever the same and, while we try to plan, there is always a problem or an emergency right around the corner; this does mean that we rarely get bored, though!  

Yo“The main challenge of my job is ensuring that I am always on top of every situation and, where possible, implementing clear plans to ensure that everything is under control.”  

Ian, from East Belfast, discovered that he could study for a management qualification at SERC, fully funded through the government’s Skills Focus programme. He gained a CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice.  Following this, he undertook the CMI Chartered Manager process.    

He explains   “All this was done in the COVID years, so all but one class was undertaken remotely.  The one class that I physically attended was at SERC Bangor Campus. I personally didn’t enjoy learning online, but I can recommend the teaching at SERC. I have been improving my knowledge and skills throughout my career; after leaving Orangefield Boys’ School I began an apprenticeship, then achieved an HND in Computing, and a Level 5 Management qualification, and took NEBOSH (Occupational and Construction) Industry Technical Training.”  

Ian says the CMI Level 7 course helped him with people management as well as with project planning. The Chartered Manager status recognises his leadership skills and commitment to lifelong professional development.  As his CV would suggest, Ian is an advocate of learning and upskilling, especially in an evolving industry:  

“It's crucial to be adaptable and willing to continuously update your knowledge and skills to stay ahead of industry developments. Never stop learning. Whether it's staying informed about industry trends, attending training sessions, or pursuing relevant certifications, a commitment to continuous learning is vital in a role that demands staying abreast of ever-changing regulations.”   

You can learn more about professional development courses at SERC here, or contact Debbie Scott, Programme Manager dscott@serc.ac.uk 

Part-time courses at SERC beginning in September 2024 are now open for applications.