Latest news with #OpticSecurityGroup
Techday NZ
22-07-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Dynon is first New Zealander in global Top 40 security leaders
Optic Security Group's Group Brand Strategy & Innovation Director Nicholas Dynon has been named to the Life Safety Association's Top 40 Thought Leaders in Security & Life Safety for 2025, becoming the first New Zealander to appear on the list. Dynon, who is based in Auckland, was recognised alongside security professionals from over a dozen countries, representing diverse sectors including life safety, physical security, cybersecurity, risk management, loss prevention, and intelligence. Three Australians were also included among the listees. The Top 40 Thought Leaders are selected by a committee based on several criteria, including number of conference presentations delivered, webinar and podcast appearances, LinkedIn reach, authored journal articles, published media commentary, and volunteer leadership positions held over a 12-month period. Optic Security Group Managing Director Mike Cunningham congratulated Dynon on this achievement. "What we know at Optic Security Group is that it takes years of hard work to become an overnight sensation. That is true at all levels of Nick's work, his dedication, and his approach to client engagement." Cunningham also highlighted the significance of being the only New Zealander acknowledged in the Top 40, saying, "To be the only New Zealander recognised underscores Nick's commitment to the industry and Optic Security Group's customers across an unmatched service footprint in Australia and New Zealand. Well done, Nick, we at Optic are all very proud of your achievement." A significant factor contributing to Dynon's inclusion was the international recognition of his research on the public acceptability of facial recognition technology in varied security and surveillance contexts. His work, published in Massey University's National Security Journal, has not only appeared in domestic outlets but was translated and featured in the Japanese press. Beyond research, Dynon's voluntary leadership roles contributed to his Top 40 placement. He serves as secretary for the ASIS International New Zealand chapter, is a member of the New Zealand Security Association Security Consultant Special Interest Group, and co-founded the annual Women in Security Awards Aotearoa. Dynon expressed his appreciation for the recognition, stating, "I am honoured and humbled to be named among this esteemed group of security professionals. I'm particularly proud to be the first New Zealander to make the list, and I'm confident we'll be seeing more Kiwis recognised in the Top 40 going forward." He also pointed to the ongoing technology initiatives at Optic Security Group. "We're advancing some exciting work in Optic Security Group in the emerging security technology space, including facial recognition, artificial intelligence, and advanced video analytics," he said. "It's an environment that promotes innovation, thought leadership, and a genuine desire to raise industry standards and take security thinking to new heights." Dynon acknowledged the support provided by his employer, noting, "Ultimately, I'm grateful to Optic for providing not only an intellectually enriching workplace, but also for encouraging its people to seek opportunities for leadership and service to the industry and community." In his current role, Dynon oversees operations at the OpticIQ Lab, a division specialising in the development, testing, training, and readiness deployment of analytics and AI-enabled security technologies. The laboratory is led by Vlado Damjanovski, noted for his expertise in CCTV, and operates from Adelaide. Dynon's recognition marks a milestone not only for Optic Security Group but also for the profile of New Zealand's security professionals on the international stage.
Techday NZ
03-07-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Optic Security Group celebrates triple win at 2025 OSPAs event
Optic Security Group has won three awards at the 2025 New Zealand Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs). The Australasian security integrator secured victories in the Outstanding Security Partnership, Outstanding Female Security Professional, and Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director categories. These awards reflect achievements in both individual and team performance within New Zealand's security sector. Recognition at the OSPAs is considered highly sought after in the global security industry, with the awards programme designed to honour excellence and best practice by companies and professionals alike. Chelsea Wallis from Optic Security Group received the Outstanding Female Security Professional award. Nicholas Dynon was recognised as Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director, and the organisation's Wellington team, in partnership with Victoria University Wellington, received the Outstanding Security Partnership award. "It's great to see these quiet achievers receiving well deserved recognition. We at Optic are very proud of them, their achievements, and the teams that support them." Optic Security Group Managing Director Mike Cunningham praised the winners and the broader teams supporting them, highlighting the company's collective effort in achieving the three wins. In addition to these category wins, Optic Security Group's Retail Crime Prevention Programme Team was shortlisted in the Outstanding Security Integrator/Installer category, reflecting the range and impact of the company's initiatives. Awards were presented across eleven categories at the event. Professor Martin Gill, founder of the OSPAs, commented on the overall standard of this year's nominees. "The standard of nominations received this year was again exceptionally high, making it a real challenge for the judging panel. All winners and finalists should be immensely proud of their achievements." Nik Boeinghoff, New Zealand General Manager of Optic Security Group, congratulated the company's teams and other finalists, stating: "Eleven OSPA categories, Optic finalists in four, and winners in three. It was a fantastic achievement by the team, and most definitely well deserved. Congratulations also to the other category winners and to all the finalists. All those recognised this evening have done our industry proud." According to the winner summary for Chelsea Wallis, her career trajectory has demonstrated notable advancement, rising to her current position as Key Account and Customer Experience Manager. The summary states: "Chelsea consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, an insatiable curiosity for learning, and a growth mindset that set her apart in every project and challenge she takes on. Chelsea's ability to influence client operations, build effective relationships, and add value is delivering superior client satisfaction and security outcomes. Judges felt that the supporting comments clearly articulate the value that Chelsea brings to her role and the sector." The Outstanding Security Partnership award, shared by Optic Security Group and Victoria University Wellington, recognised the collaboration on a major asset upgrade project. The joint effort is credited with stabilising the university's security systems and minimising failures. The judges' summary noted: "Judges felt that the creation of a two-way street of mutual trust and respect, enabled continuous improvement and mutual learning and growth." Nicholas Dynon, who previously won the Lifetime Achievement award at the inaugural New Zealand OSPAs in 2022, was again recognised—this time as Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director. The judges noted Dynon's influence on operational practices within customer organisations and his peers both locally and abroad: "Judges noted that Optic's Group Brand Strategy & Innovation Director had 'profoundly influenced the business operations of his customer organisations, as well as influencing his security consultant peers within New Zealand's security industry, and internationally' through the quality of his outputs, evidence-based approach, and focus on knowledge production." Optic Security Group's recent performance continues an established presence at the OSPAs. In previous years, its employees have also been recipients of major awards, including in consultancy and contract security management categories. All nominees, finalists, and category winners at the 2025 awards were congratulated by Optic Security Group for their efforts and for contributing to the advancement of standards within the sector.
Scoop
05-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Expert Commentary: NZ Privacy Commissioner Provides Clarity For Retailers On Facial Recognition Technology
Press Release – Optic Security Group Finding published yesterday by NZ Privacy Commissioner on supermarket facial recognition trial places retailers on notice, says FRT technology risk expert. Nicholas Dynon is Brand Strategy & Innovation Director at Optic Security Group. He is a certified security risk professional and counter terrorism practitioner. 'The inquiry report found that the live facial recognition technology (FRT) model trialed by Foodstuffs North Island Limited (FSNI) in 25 of its supermarkets complied with New Zealand's Privacy Act. While the Privacy Commissioner assessed the level of privacy intrusion as high due to every shopper's face data being collected, the privacy safeguards in the trial reduced it to an acceptable level. 'The outcome has been met with strong and immediate political support, with Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith lauding the result as 'great news' and stating that he now expects the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime to 'continue to look at this technology as an option to be used more widely'. 'The outcome also provides some much-needed clarity for retailers – and other organisations – who have held back on considering FRT as a potential solution to their security issues due to the fear of ending up on the wrong side of privacy legislation. But it's not a green light. 'The Privacy Commissioner has highlighted several changes that FSNI needs to make in order to make its trial permanent or to expand it to more stores. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) has also set out nine key expectations for organisations that are considering using FRT. 'Compliant FRT deployment is about more than just the technology itself. Factors such as identifying and assessing the specific purpose for which you want to use FRT, maintaining watchlists, protecting the system from misuse and information breach, communications to customers, staffing and training, customer interventions, incident response, managing enquiries and complaints, and maintaining and monitoring the system, are all critical to compliance – and they involve significant research, planning, testing, and careful implementation. 'At the same time, retailers should be aware that the results of an OPC survey published just weeks ago demonstrate that many New Zealanders are not supportive of the use of FRT in retail stores. 'The survey of over 1,200 New Zealanders found that 41% of respondents are 'concerned' or 'very concerned' about the use of facial recognition technology (FRT) in retail stores to identify individuals. A total of 25% are neutral on the topic, 31% are either not so concerned or not concerned at all, and 3% are unsure. 49% of Maori respondents indicated concern over FRT in retail. 'For retailers considering FRT, this means not only ensuring all the privacy legislation boxes are ticked but also taking a step back and asking whether FRT is the most appropriate solution to your security problem. 'Inappropriate FRT deployment exposes an organisation not only to legal risk but also to significant reputational risk. Engaging with trusted experts to understand the privacy dimensions and factors influencing social licence to operate this emerging technology are critical.'
Scoop
05-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Expert Commentary: NZ Privacy Commissioner Provides Clarity For Retailers On Facial Recognition Technology
Press Release – Optic Security Group Finding published yesterday by NZ Privacy Commissioner on supermarket facial recognition trial places retailers on notice, says FRT technology risk expert. Nicholas Dynon is Brand Strategy & Innovation Director at Optic Security Group. He is a certified security risk professional and counter terrorism practitioner. 'The inquiry report found that the live facial recognition technology (FRT) model trialed by Foodstuffs North Island Limited (FSNI) in 25 of its supermarkets complied with New Zealand's Privacy Act. While the Privacy Commissioner assessed the level of privacy intrusion as high due to every shopper's face data being collected, the privacy safeguards in the trial reduced it to an acceptable level. 'The outcome has been met with strong and immediate political support, with Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith lauding the result as 'great news' and stating that he now expects the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime to 'continue to look at this technology as an option to be used more widely'. 'The outcome also provides some much-needed clarity for retailers – and other organisations – who have held back on considering FRT as a potential solution to their security issues due to the fear of ending up on the wrong side of privacy legislation. But it's not a green light. 'The Privacy Commissioner has highlighted several changes that FSNI needs to make in order to make its trial permanent or to expand it to more stores. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) has also set out nine key expectations for organisations that are considering using FRT. 'Compliant FRT deployment is about more than just the technology itself. Factors such as identifying and assessing the specific purpose for which you want to use FRT, maintaining watchlists, protecting the system from misuse and information breach, communications to customers, staffing and training, customer interventions, incident response, managing enquiries and complaints, and maintaining and monitoring the system, are all critical to compliance – and they involve significant research, planning, testing, and careful implementation. 'At the same time, retailers should be aware that the results of an OPC survey published just weeks ago demonstrate that many New Zealanders are not supportive of the use of FRT in retail stores. 'The survey of over 1,200 New Zealanders found that 41% of respondents are 'concerned' or 'very concerned' about the use of facial recognition technology (FRT) in retail stores to identify individuals. A total of 25% are neutral on the topic, 31% are either not so concerned or not concerned at all, and 3% are unsure. 49% of Maori respondents indicated concern over FRT in retail. 'For retailers considering FRT, this means not only ensuring all the privacy legislation boxes are ticked but also taking a step back and asking whether FRT is the most appropriate solution to your security problem. 'Inappropriate FRT deployment exposes an organisation not only to legal risk but also to significant reputational risk. Engaging with trusted experts to understand the privacy dimensions and factors influencing social licence to operate this emerging technology are critical.'
Scoop
05-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Expert Commentary: NZ Privacy Commissioner Provides Clarity For Retailers On Facial Recognition Technology
Nicholas Dynon is Brand Strategy & Innovation Director at Optic Security Group. He is a certified security risk professional and counter terrorism practitioner. 'The inquiry report found that the live facial recognition technology (FRT) model trialed by Foodstuffs North Island Limited (FSNI) in 25 of its supermarkets complied with New Zealand's Privacy Act. While the Privacy Commissioner assessed the level of privacy intrusion as high due to every shopper's face data being collected, the privacy safeguards in the trial reduced it to an acceptable level. 'The outcome has been met with strong and immediate political support, with Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith lauding the result as 'great news' and stating that he now expects the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime to 'continue to look at this technology as an option to be used more widely". 'The outcome also provides some much-needed clarity for retailers – and other organisations – who have held back on considering FRT as a potential solution to their security issues due to the fear of ending up on the wrong side of privacy legislation. But it's not a green light. 'The Privacy Commissioner has highlighted several changes that FSNI needs to make in order to make its trial permanent or to expand it to more stores. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) has also set out nine key expectations for organisations that are considering using FRT. 'Compliant FRT deployment is about more than just the technology itself. Factors such as identifying and assessing the specific purpose for which you want to use FRT, maintaining watchlists, protecting the system from misuse and information breach, communications to customers, staffing and training, customer interventions, incident response, managing enquiries and complaints, and maintaining and monitoring the system, are all critical to compliance – and they involve significant research, planning, testing, and careful implementation. "At the same time, retailers should be aware that the results of an OPC survey published just weeks ago demonstrate that many New Zealanders are not supportive of the use of FRT in retail stores. 'The survey of over 1,200 New Zealanders found that 41% of respondents are 'concerned' or 'very concerned' about the use of facial recognition technology (FRT) in retail stores to identify individuals. A total of 25% are neutral on the topic, 31% are either not so concerned or not concerned at all, and 3% are unsure. 49% of Maori respondents indicated concern over FRT in retail. 'For retailers considering FRT, this means not only ensuring all the privacy legislation boxes are ticked but also taking a step back and asking whether FRT is the most appropriate solution to your security problem. 'Inappropriate FRT deployment exposes an organisation not only to legal risk but also to significant reputational risk. Engaging with trusted experts to understand the privacy dimensions and factors influencing social licence to operate this emerging technology are critical."
