Commercial Integrator + Security Sales September 2024 - 66

ON THE RISE
Finding my passion for problem solving and
process improvement helped prepare me
for Axis. I am a very caring person and have
always wanted to find meaning in my work.
I learned that I needed a job where I felt
like I was making a difference in people's
lives. I found this in the security industry,
and I am very grateful to be able to work in
an industry that positively impacts people's
lives and well-being every day.
SIA: What are some of the biggest
challenges and opportunities you've
seen with supply chain operations for
your company and/or in the industry
overall?
Rigby: The increase in demand during the
COVID-19 pandemic was a big challenge for the security industry.
We saw both orders and lead times reach incredibly high levels,
while manufacturers throughout the supply chain struggled to
keep up with the high demands. Since then, we've seen supply
and demand stabilize and lead times have returned to normal.
This was a highly unpredictable time; however, it taught us many
lessons and we have been able to strengthen our supply chain
and ways of working, to mitigate any risk in the future.
SIA: What are some ways in which you think the
security industry could foster more diversity, equity and
inclusion (DEI)?
Rigby: Sitting on DEI committees for both Axis and RISE has
given me great perspective on all the positive initiatives these
organizations are running, but there are still opportunities for
improvement. The security industry could foster more diversity,
equity and inclusion by continuing to evaluate processes, elevate
marginalized voices and embrace change. A few examples of this
could be reviewing benefits offerings, diversifying speakers at
events or updating policies when needed.
SIA: What key challenges, opportunities and/or trends
do you see as most important to the industry, or more
specifically to those in the surveillance, audio and access
space like Axis?
Rigby: The collection and management of data is a trend I've
seen that will only continue to grow as time goes on. The data
conversations lead to other topics such as cybersecurity, ethical
use, analytics and artificial intelligence. The opportunity to
leverage data is huge; however, the challenge is making sure
that is done ethically. At Axis, we are invested in bringing our
customers innovative solutions, while ensuring our technologies
are cyber-secure and following ethical use guidelines.
SIA: What has been the most rewarding accomplishment
or experience in your career in the security industry?
Rigby: Two main experiences stick out to me the most. Early in
my career at Axis, I was fortunate enough to spend two months at
'Throughout my
career, I've learned
that I really enjoy
relationship building
and data analysis,
two things I am very
excited to focus on in
my next role as team
lead, distribution
operations.'
our global headquarters in Lund, Sweden,
doing a research project on our product
launch process. This was rewarding not
only because I got to make great connections
with coworkers I work with virtually,
but also because the knowledge I gained
helped pave the way for process improvements
for years to come. I pushed myself
outside my comfort zone personally and
professionally, and it will continue to pay
dividends for both Axis and me. Secondly, I
had the opportunity to onboard a new distribution
partner and manage the account.
Things started off a bit rocky, with supply
constraints and misaligned expectations.
I was able to clear up some confusion and
set clear expectations with our new partner
that left everyone feeling more confident in the new venture. This
was incredibly rewarding because it involved problem solving,
deviating from the norm and challenging conversations. Navigating
all of this was difficult, but it resulted in a great relationship
with partnership, respect and understanding.
SIA: What are your predictions for where the security
industry may be headed in the next five to 10 years?
Rigby: In the next five to 10 years, we will see more focus and
adaptation of AI and machine learning, as well as more robust
safety measures when it comes to cybersecurity and privacy
regulations.
SIA: You've written to our RISE community about mindfulness
before. What role do you believe mindfulness and
self-care play in a professional setting, and how can they
help security professionals advance in their careers?
Rigby: I believe mindfulness and self-care play a huge role in
every aspect of life, including in a professional setting. To me, it's
about taking care of yourself so you can show up as the best version
of yourself every day, whether it's at work or family events,
in social settings or stuck in traffic. Being in tune with yourself
is incredibly important. It can contribute to career advancement
and successes because the better you know and understand yourself,
the better you can work towards your goals and passions.
Showing up for life with a full cup and well taken care of will give
you more energy, better ways to manage stress and leave you
feeling ready to take on your day. Start small; just make one or
two positive changes and see what you notice! SSI
" On the RISE " is a column by the Security Industry Association
(SIA) in partnership with Security Sales & Integration, profiling
the next generation of security industry leaders. This column is
part of SIA RISE, a community that fosters the careers of young
professionals in the security through networking and career
growth events, education and professional development offerings,
and scholarship and mentorship opportunities.
66 Commercial Integrator+Security Sales & Integration | September 2024
Commercial Integrator + Security Sales September 2024

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