SCRS Conference Day 1 Session #11
Evolving Strategies and Preparation for Advanced Warehouse & Transportation Security
Moderator: Mr. Shamsir Bin Ali, Regional QA Manager, Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE), Zuellig Pharma
Panelists:
Mr. Jason Le Busque, Global Head of Security, Toll Holding
Mr. Caleb Leong, Country Security Lead, DB Schenker
Mr. Ricky Du, Vice President, Strategic Accounts & Service APAC, Convergint
The landscape of warehouse and transportation security has evolved rapidly with rising threats ranging from sophisticated cyberattacks to sophisticated physical breaches. It is crucial for businesses to stay ahead of emerging risks and adapt their security strategies accordingly. The need for advanced security measures has never been more pressing, as organizations face challenges such as unauthorized access, theft, and the dynamic nature of modern logistics. This panel serves as a critical platform for industry leaders to share their expertise and insights on addressing these contemporary security challenges.
Organized by Transported Asset Protection Association Asia Pacific (TAPA APAC), the panel was held during the Supply Chain Resilience and Sustainability (SCRS) Conference 2024, on June 25 and 26 at Shanghai, China. SCRS Conference is the trademark event of the association across the region to gather supply chain leaders, industry experts, and security professionals to discuss and address the latest trends and challenges in supply chain security and resilience.
The session was expertly moderated by Mr. Shamsir Bin Ali, Regional QA Manager of Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE) at Zuellig Pharma. The session featured insights from three distinguished panelists: Mr. Jason Le Busque, Global Head of Security at Toll Holdings; Mr. Caleb Leong, Country Security Lead at DB Schenker; and Mr. Ricky Du, Vice President of Strategic Accounts & Service APAC at Convergint. The panelists shared their expertise on the dynamic challenges and evolving strategies in warehouse and transportation security. They explored the integration of advanced technologies, the critical role of stakeholder collaboration, and the balance between cost-effectiveness and technological investment, offering a comprehensive overview of how organizations can adapt to the rapid evolution of security threats.
Question 1: In what ways can technology aid in mitigating risks associated with facility and trucking security, especially concerning unauthorized access and theft?
Ricky elaborated on how technology can significantly reduce risks related to unauthorized access and theft. He noted that while foundational security measures such as CCTV surveillance, access control, and alarm systems are essential, the integration of advanced technologies offers enhanced protection. Specifically, Ricky highlighted the use of data utilization applications, such as vehicle and visitor management systems, which leverage real-time data to monitor and manage security more effectively. By incorporating GPS tracking and condition monitoring, organizations can gain insights into vehicle behavior and equipment status, helping to prevent unauthorized activities and streamline security processes. In addition, Ricky emphasized the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing security measures. AI-powered solutions can automate threat detection and response, making security operations more efficient and less dependent on human intervention.
Caleb supported this view, adding that technology-driven monitoring and intervention systems can greatly improve security effectiveness. He advocated for moving towards smart command centers rather than relying solely on human intervention. “Systems should have a sequence of processes in place to identify ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ and guide the next steps. It’s up to us to configure these systems to support both automated processes and human interventions,” he explained. This approach enhances the efficiency and productivity of security operations, making AI and advanced technologies integral to modern security strategies. “This is the next level of controlling and making AI work for us by giving the right decision-making process and understanding our risks,” Caleb concluded.
Question 2: How important is collaboration between different stakeholders in ensuring comprehensive security measures? Can you share a successful case where collaboration played a crucial role?
Caleb stressed the crucial role of collaboration between internal stakeholders and external partners in developing comprehensive security measures. He explained that security in a third-party logistics environment often requires alignment with various internal departments and customers, each with their own security requirements. Effective collaboration ensures that security measures and global standards like TAPA Standards are properly integrated into all aspects of the operation, from commercial to operational needs. Caleb shared a successful case where enhanced internal collaboration led to improved security solutions for third-party logistics, demonstrating how coordinated efforts can address diverse security needs and achieve better outcomes.
Jason echoed the importance of early and proactive collaboration with security teams, particularly in the context of new projects. He highlighted that involving security experts early in the planning stages of new sites ensures that security measures are appropriately budgeted and implemented. Jason recounted an instance where late-stage involvement led to a significant discrepancy between budgeted and actual costs for security systems. Ricky echoed this sentiment, noting that pre-planning, budgeting, and executing security measures early in the process make a significant difference. “Security is never a convenient way, but it’s essential for the organization as well.” By engaging with security professionals early, organizations can better manage costs and ensure that security infrastructure is aligned with operational requirements.
Question 3: How can organizations balance the implementation of advanced security technologies with maintaining cost effectiveness and operational efficiency?
Jason discussed how organizations can balance advanced security technology implementation with cost-effectiveness by demonstrating the broader benefits of these systems. He pointed out that advanced security technologies often provide additional operational efficiencies, such as reduced vehicle dwell times and improved overall performance. By presenting security solutions as part of a broader operational improvement strategy, organizations can make a compelling case for their value beyond mere safety. This approach helps in gaining stakeholder buy-in and securing the necessary investment for advanced security systems.
Ricky and Caleb supported this view, noting that presenting the value generated by security technologies can help justify their costs. They emphasized that while advanced technologies may require a higher initial investment, their long-term benefits—such as increased efficiency and reduced manual labor—often outweigh these costs. By focusing on the return on investment (ROI) and operational improvements, organizations can align security technology investments with their overall business objectives. This approach helps in achieving a balance between advanced security measures and maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Question 4: With the rapid evolution of threats, how do you foresee the future of security measures in warehouses and during transportation evolving?
The panelists were optimistic about the future of security measures, predicting continued advancements in technology. Jason anticipated that innovations such as drones and AI would become more integral to security operations. Drones could patrol perimeters and assist with real-time monitoring, while AI could enhance threat detection and response capabilities. These technologies will likely become more affordable and accessible, providing organizations with improved tools to address evolving security challenges.
Caleb and Ricky agreed, highlighting the progress in facial recognition and tracking technologies. Caleb noted that facial recognition systems have advanced to prevent unauthorized access by requiring physical registration, thus enhancing security in warehouses. Ricky discussed innovations in trucking security, such as advanced locking mechanisms and tracking platforms, which offer better protection during transportation. While maritime security still faces challenges, ongoing technological developments are expected to enhance security measures and improve their effectiveness against emerging threats.
Ensuring Supply Chain Resilience with TAPA Standards
The panel discussion provided the delegates with valuable insights into leveraging technology in their endeavor to resilience by focusing on stakeholder collaboration, balancing costs with technological advancements, and anticipating future evolution of security measures. TAPA Standards play an essential role in this endeavor, providing a comprehensive framework that addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by modern organizations. By adhering to these standards, companies can ensure that their security measures are not only effective but also aligned with global best practices. As technology continues to advance, integrating TAPA Standards with innovative solutions like AI and facial recognition will be crucial in enhancing security and resilience.
For more information about TAPA APAC and TAPA Standards, please visit www.tapa-apac.org or email to info@tapa-apac.org.
About the Moderator:
Mr. Shamsir Bin Ali
Regional QA & HSSE Manager, Zuellig Pharma
With over two decades of experience, Shamsir Bin Ali is a seasoned Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) professional, holding an MSc in the field. He serves as an Associate Lecturer for BSc and MSc programs in SHE Management, approved WSQ Educator for WSH programs, and registered Safety Officer for the Ministry of Manpower. With expertise as an ISO auditor and contributions across sectors like oil and gas, logistics, construction, and pharmaceuticals, Shamsir actively champions corporate social responsibility through sustainability report submissions for the EcoVadis Award.
Email: SBAli@zuelligpharma.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shamsir-ali/
Website: https://www.zuelligpharma.com/
About the Panelists:
Mr. Jason Le Busque
Global Head of Protective Security, Toll Holdings
With extensive leadership experience in physical and facility security across logistics, transport, warehousing, and government sectors, Jason excels in crisis management, and emergency response. With 25+ years with Victoria Police where he led complex investigations, large teams, and projects with a calm, purposeful approach, Jason is now the Global Head of Protective Security at Toll. With over 10,000 employees and 500 sites globally, Jason oversees security incident management, investigations, crisis management, traveller security and background screening, building a strong security culture and driving organizational transformation. Jason is committed to minimizing risk, empowering stakeholders, and fostering high-performance teams.
Email: jason.lebusque@tollgroup.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-lebusque/
Mr. Caleb Leong
Country Security Lead
DB Schenker
Caleb Leong is a dynamic security professional with over a decade of experience spanning various domains, from logistics and crisis management to aviation security and operations technology. With a proven track record of leadership in roles such as Country Lead for Security at DB Schenker and Senior Operations Manager at Certis, Caleb has consistently demonstrated his expertise in security solution architecture, operational planning, and people management. His commitment to discipline, relentless effort, and open-mindedness has not only ensured the effective implementation of security measures but also fostered a culture of innovation and collaboration. Caleb’s proficiency in liaising with government authorities, airlines, and business partners, coupled with his extensive knowledge of physical security, data security, and criminal investigation, positions him as a trusted leader and invaluable asset in the security industry.
Email: caleb.leong@dbschenker.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-leong-aab475138/
Mr. Ricky Du
Vice President, Strategic Accounts & Service APAC
Convergint
Ricky Du is an accomplished leader with over 16 years of experience in security and systems integration. Currently VP, Strategic Accounts and Services, APAC at leading global systems integrator and service provider Convergint, Ricky drives the development and delivery of new cloud-based, AI, and data-driven solutions and services in APAC to meet customer requirements and respond to evolving technology trends. Additionally, Ricky has been a dedicated member of the Board of Directors for ASIS Shanghai Chapter since 2018. Through this role, he actively contributes to the promotion of security knowledge-sharing and fosters networking among security professionals in China.
Email: Ricky.Du@convergint.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricky-du-5a3b6a25/