Mike Cunningham CBE QPM, appointed as Chair of the SIA

Image courtesy SIA

A senior public sector leader with extensive experience in leadership roles across criminal justice, policing, and community safety, Mike Cunningham CBE QPM has been appointed as Chair of the Security Industry Authority (SIA) by the Security Minister.

Mike Cunningham will take up the role on 1 March, taking over from Heather Baily QPM, who after 5 years as the Chair of the SIA will step down at the end of February 2026.

The SIA’s primary focus is public protection. It is a high performing, UK-wide regulator that raises standards for both individuals and companies working in the private security industry. The SIA will also in due course become the new regulator for Martyn’s Law.

The Chair of the SIA’s responsibilities include:
providing effective strategic leadership at Board level
supporting the SIA in meeting its statutory objectives and its role in the wider security landscape
ensuring good governance and risk management
building effective stakeholder relationships

Mike Cunningham said: "It is a privilege to take on the role of Chair of the SIA. A significant amount has been achieved over the 5 years of Heather Baily’s tenure.

"This is an important time for the SIA, as it prepares to take on responsibilities as the new regulator for Martyn’s Law. I look forward to working with the SIA’s executive leadership and all the dedicated staff at the SIA and partners to build on the excellent work so far and ensure the SIA continues making significant contribution to keeping places and people safe and secure across the UK."

Security Minister, Dan Jarvis said: "The SIA has an important role in supporting the public safety priorities of the government.

"Mike Cunningham has an impressive track record and has demonstrated a strong commitment to public and community safety throughout his career. I look forward to working closely with him.

"I also want to thank Heather Baily for her tireless dedication to her work as Chair of the SIA over the last five years."

Mike Cunningham has been involved in policing and community safety for over 30 years. He was Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police from 2009 to 2014. He received an honorary doctorate from the University of Staffordshire in 2014 in recognition of his significant contribution to policing and law and order. He has been HM Inspector of Constabulary with lead responsibility for inspecting forces in the north of England and Northern Ireland and CEO of the College of Policing from 2018 setting standards for policing in England and Wales.

In 2021 Mike was appointed as Lead Commissioner for a Government Intervention into Liverpool City Council, after which he was the Independent Chair of the Council Improvement Board. In 2013, he received the Queen’s Police Medal and was appointed as CBE in 2021. He is also Chair of the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency.