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Daren Pool, Managing Director at Triple Star Fire & Security Limited, recently began his tenure as Chair of the Fire & Security Association (FSA). Here, Daren talks about his career to date, how the fire and security industry has evolved and the opportunities/challenges that brings, as well what he thinks the future holds.
What does it mean to you to be Chair of the Fire & Security Association?
To be Chair of the FSA is both a privilege and a responsibility. This Association represents a sector that protects lives, property, and critical infrastructure every single day. Being entrusted to help lead that collective voice – on behalf of our members and the wider industry – is something I take extremely seriously.
For me, the role is about stewardship: safeguarding the reputation of our sector, championing professionalism, and ensuring that the FSA remains relevant, respected, and influential in a fast‑changing world.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and professional journey?
I’ve spent the majority of my professional career in the fire sector, working across operational, commercial, and leadership roles. That journey has given me a ground‑level understanding of the realities our members face – from compliance and standards, to skills shortages, technical innovation, and customer expectations.
I’ve been fortunate to work with excellent people throughout my career, and that experience has reinforced my belief that this industry’s greatest strength is its people – their expertise, integrity, and commitment to protecting others.
What are your priorities for the next five years?
My key priorities are focused on relevance, professionalism, and influence.
Over the coming years, I want the FSA to:
The next phase must be about ensuring the Association evolves at the same pace as the industry it represents.
What have you done in your first 150+ days since becoming FSA Chair?
My early focus has been on listening. I’ve spent time engaging with council members, committees, membership and partners to understand what is working well and where we can improve.
What changes have you seen in the fire and security services industry over the years?
The industry has become more complex, more accountable, and more technologically driven. There is greater scrutiny than ever – from regulation, from clients, and from society at large – and rightly so, given the critical nature of the work we do.
We’ve also seen increasing convergence between fire, security, and digital technologies, alongside rising expectations around competence, documentation, and transparency.
What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges facing the industry right now?
The biggest opportunity lies in professionalisation and innovation – demonstrating the value our sector brings through competence, quality, and trusted delivery.
Equally, the challenges are significant:
How we respond collectively will define the industry’s future reputation.
Do any of the opportunities and challenges differ between the fire and security sectors?
While fire and security face many shared challenges, there are differences. Fire is increasingly driven by regulation, compliance, and life safety risk, while security is often influenced by evolving threats, technology, and integration.
However, both sectors depend on competent people, robust standards, and trust – which is why alignment and collaboration are more important than ever.
What role should FSA play in helping the industry respond to these opportunities and challenges?
The FSA should act as a trusted anchor for the industry:
Most importantly, the Association must continue to be member‑led and member‑focused.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the fire and security services industry?
This is a career where what you do genuinely matters. My advice would be to commit to learning, take competence seriously, and choose to work for organisations that value professionalism and integrity.
There are few industries where you can combine technical skill, responsibility, and real societal impact in the way this one allows.
What’s your favourite thing to do when you’re not working?
Time away from work is important. I value time with family and friends and making space to recharge. A clear head and perspective are essential if you want to lead effectively.
What’s the best piece of advice that you have been given in your career so far?
My advice would be this: never build your career on being the cheapest option. This is an industry where competence, integrity, and professional judgement must always come first.
Fire and security work carries real responsibility – people’s lives, livelihoods, and trust depend on it. That means doing things properly, investing in skills and training, and being confident enough to stand by your expertise, even when commercial pressures push in another direction.
It is also important to recognise that it is okay to say no. If a project cannot be delivered correctly, compliantly, or sustainably within the available budget, then walking away is often the most professional decision you can make. Long‑term trust and reputation are far more valuable than short‑term work that forces compromise.
The most respected individuals and businesses in this sector are not those who race to the bottom on price, but those who consistently deliver quality, competence, and confidence. If you focus on doing the right thing, the right way, you build a career – and a business – that lasts.
What key message do you want FSA Members to take away from this article?
The FSA exists for its members, and its strength comes from your engagement, professionalism, and shared commitment to raising standards across our industry.
Together, we have an opportunity – and a responsibility – to shape the future of fire and security in a way that protects lives, builds trust, and leaves a positive legacy for the next generation.
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