Helen is a proven crime and security leader with over 20 years’ experience safeguarding people, assets, and reputation across UK retail. As Head of Crime & Security at Sainsbury’s, she held accountability for safety across 1,400 stores, logistics, and support centres, overseeing the protection of 175,000 colleagues and millions of customers while managing a £180m budget.

Helen has led executive protection programmes, developed major incident and counter-terrorism plans, and drove industry-wide collaboration on retail crime, including influencing Government and policing strategies.

Recognition includes Security Woman of the Year 2021 and multiple Retail Risk Awards, alongside the privilege of attending Downing Street in 2024 to contribute to the Government’s retail crime agenda, which delivered the standalone offence for retail shopworker assaults.

Founder of Solstice Risk Advisory, advising businesses on tackling retail crime through data-led and pragmatic solutions. She is also a founding member of Operation Pegasus and Board Director of Safer Business Network, bringing governance and oversight to crime reduction initiatives.

Helen is a dedicated volunteer in the Criminal Justice System as a Magistrate in Nottinghamshire, with previous roles supporting victims and witnesses in court. She is passionate about mentoring, wellbeing, and inclusion, with initiatives such as ‘Time out to Talk’ and menopause support networks. Helen is also known for delivering results through leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to making communities safer.

SOLSTICE RISK ADVISORY