With each New Year comes new challenges and concerns. This year is no different as security professionals prepare to respond to those challenges as well as the opportunities brought on by technological advancements and an ever-evolving threat landscape. I asked some security leaders to share their thoughts on trends and concerns they see becoming a top priority for security teams in the coming year. 

“Ongoing concerns that ‘core’ U.S. values relating to social norms and rule of law are no longer common, creating the potential for increased distrust, proliferation of conspiracy theories, and escalation of domestic tensions and threats of violence,” says Kristine Raad, Chief Security Officer at General Motors. 

She adds that potential shifts in foreign policy, immigration restrictions, and aggressive use of tariffs could damage views of the U.S. abroad and increase hostility directed at U.S. citizens. 

“Governments and regulatory bodies will enforce stricter laws and compliance requirements, requiring healthcare providers to implement more robust security measures, both physical and data,” says Jeff Hauk, Corporate Director, Safety and Security Services at Lynchburg General Hospital and Virginia Baptist Hospital. “This will include regular audits, mandatory risk assessments, and comprehensive incident and operational response plans.” 

“The landscape continues to be complex with various risks impacting and/or amplifying others,” Raad says. “Which of these may become top priorities for security in the coming year depends on the organization and would require a risk prioritization review with key stakeholders such as Public Policy, Risk, Legal, etc.” 

Among some of his predictions, Hauk believes that physical security — particularly in healthcare — will continue to see significant advancements to address emerging threats. These threats include workplace violence, cyber and data events and the call for increased security and safety of patients, staff, and facilities.

Focus on collaboration

When it comes to what strategies security leaders should keep top of mind as they look forward to a new year, both Raad and Hauk believe strong partnerships and collaborations are essential to an effective security strategy. 

“Focus on continued partnership and information sharing with peers and public agency liaisons through direct contact or via organizations such as OSAC and DSAC,” Raad says. 

She adds that a renewed focus on training and communication campaigns promoting situational awareness and “see something — say something”, as well as timely monitoring of travel risk globally and subsequent updates to protocols to enhance traveler security are important for security professionals to keep in mind. 

In the healthcare industry, Hauk highlights collaboration with law enforcement. 

“More healthcare organizations have and are moving towards maintaining their own police authority. If we are not already, it will continue to be paramount for healthcare security and public safety departments to establish strong partnerships with local law enforcement and emergency services,” Hauk says. “The development of joint training exercises and regular communication will improve preparedness and response to incidents.” 

As we step into the New Year, the modern security leader will be faced with an evolving threat landscape of risks, opportunities, and technologies. However, by working together, staying ahead of industry trends and fostering collaboration, the uncertainty can be navigated with confidence. It is important to not focus on just reacting to the issues the year ahead brings, but look to turning challenges into opportunities to build a more effective security strategy for the future.