Croydon security officer honoured with prestigious award for keeping safe one of London’s most iconic buildings

A Croydon security officer has been honoured with a prestigious award for keeping safe one of London’s most iconic buildings.

Javon Lewis, a 23-year-old employee of Dardan Security, has been recognised with an ACS Pacesetters Officer of Distinction Award for his outstanding work as a ‘brand ambassador’ and guard at The Royal Exchange in Bank in the heart of the City of London.

The fitness and martial arts enthusiast from Croydon joined Dardan Security two years ago as a relief officer before rapidly progressing to a core position at The Royal Exchange, the 16th century grandiose home to a number of luxury shops and all-day dining establishments.

Javon was nominated by Dardan Security Director Andy Buxton, who told judges: “Javon has proven himself more than equal to the task of being not only a brand ambassador, but also standing out for the professional and serious way in which he discharges his duties as a security officer.

“Over the last 12 months Javon’s actions have been verbally commended by members of the City of London Police force, our client, the retailers, and industry peers.

“Working in a public space, his calm, quiet but assertive manner has given him the confidence to deescalate situations and keep The Royal Exchange safe, both physically and reputationally.

“Javon devotes his personal time and resources to attending courses, working towards security qualifications.”

On receiving his award, Javon said: “It is a great honour to receive this award and I thank everyone who has commented positively about my work.

“I enjoy my busy role tremendously and the challenging responsibility of helping to keep one of London’s best-known buildings safe.

“No two days are the same and there is much satisfaction to be gained from being not only a guard but a brand ambassador too.

“Dardan Security has given me a great opportunity to pursue a career in security and I am looking forward to achieving further industry qualifications”.

Privately owned Dardan Security employs 500 staff nationwide and is headquartered in Great Shelford, Cambridge.

The company celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2023 and its range of services include mobile security, security technology, guarding, concierge and security consultancy.

Oxford Properties Group acquired the retail element of The Royal Exchange in 2013 and has helped establish it as the only luxury retail destination within the City of London.

Around 90 nominations were submitted for this year’s ACS Pacesetters Awards, covering exceptional work and individual acts of bravery by front-line security personnel.

A select group of 12 winners were honoured at a special virtual event hosted recently by Roy Cooper, MD of Professional Security magazine.

Pictured: Javon Lewis (left) pictured with Andrew Corrigan, General Manager of The Royal Exchange.