Women in Security - Laurie Swilley

Laurie Swilley, Director of Human Resources – Allied Universal

Based in Naperville, Illinois, Laurie Swilley joined Allied Universal in August 2018 as Regional Human Resources Director in the Midwest Region. Today, as Director of Human Resources at Allied Universal, Laurie is responsible for supporting over 20,000 employees across the Midwest region for all people-related activities. As a strategic business partner to the Regional Leadership team, Laurie’s responsibilities include the execution of human resources initiatives and people strategies, policy and procedures interpretation, employee/labor relations, talent development, performance management, and ensuring compliance with state licensing and other regulatory requirements.

According to Laurie, one of the main benefits of working in the security industry is being able to provide employment to thousands of workers across multi-generational workforces including military and first responders, which is truly gratifying.

“Working in this industry can be quite challenging as you navigate a vast labor pool with a war on talent,” says Laurie. “Licensing, compliance and client contractual demands can also be difficult at times, but this variety of work definitely keeps me on my toes.”

Laurie believes that a person can be truly successful at Allied Universal if you spend time understanding the industry, build relationships early and ensure that you have a strong development plan with mentors and support.

“The good news about the security market today is that women are making a significant contribution to the industry and now represent the sector’s growing demand for diversity and talent,” adds Laurie.

She is a member of a number of professional organizations including ASIS International, The Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), and the Bolingbrook Chamber of Commerce. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Elmhurst College, attended the University of St. Thomas Executive Education Leadership & Management Program and earned a Certificate in Professional Project Management.