Today we’d like to introduce you to Simon Osamoh.
Hi Simon, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I joined the police in the United Kingdom at 19, inspired by TV shows and a desire to serve my community. By 23, I became a detective focusing on organized crime. I’ve always been drawn to understanding people’s stories—never judging their circumstances but instead seeking to understand how they got there. Conducting interviews and hearing their backstories fascinated me.
In 2006, I was part of an MI5-led investigation into what became known as the liquid bomb terrorism plot. This was a highly sophisticated plan where terrorists sought to bypass traditional security measures by assembling liquid explosives onboard planes mid-flight. Unlike previous plots, this approach presented a unique challenge as it exploited everyday items like sports drinks and other liquids, which, when combined, could create a deadly explosive. Our team worked tirelessly to uncover the details, conduct surveillance, and ultimately disrupt the plan before it could be executed. The operation’s success not only saved countless lives but also led to the global implementation of strict restrictions on liquids in carry-on luggage—limiting passengers to containers of 100ml or less—a security measure still in place today.
In 2011, I moved to the U.S. and became head of counter-terrorism at Mall of America in Minnesota, the nation’s largest public venue, spanning 6 million square feet with over 42 million annual visitors After leaving the mall in 2014, I transitioned to financial risk compliance. During COVID, like many, I began reflecting on my path—was I truly happy, and was there something else I should be doing? That led me to take a leap of faith, leaving corporate America to focus fully on my consulting firm, Kingswood Security Consulting. We specialize in nonprofit and private school risk management.
This shift also gave rise to Decision Decks—safety and security scenarios in your pocket. The idea came from a client who asked, “How do I test my team’s knowledge and judgment?” From that question, the decks were born playing cards with scenarios designed to challenge critical thinking and decision-making. I’ve learned that in a crisis, we don’t rise to the occasion; we default to our training. The Decision Decks now cover schools, churches, offices, and soon, a family edition.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the key life lessons I’ve learned over the years is this: don’t compare your Chapter 1 to someone else’s Chapter 10. Comparison truly is the thief of joy. Like many, I’ve fallen into the trap of looking at someone else’s life, achievements, or experiences and thinking, “I wish that were me.” But life isn’t a straight path, and everyone’s journey is different.
There have been times when I’ve been overlooked for a promotion, failed at a project, or struggled with tasks others seemed to handle with ease. Those moments taught me that perseverance is essential to growth. It’s not about being perfect or having an easy journey—it’s about finishing what you start.
I often share this with my two young sons: “The key to overcoming adversity is to finish the race.” You don’t always have to be the best, but you do have to see it through. Many people quit or give up, not because they lack ability, but because they can’t finish. Finishing the race, even when it’s tough, is what builds resilience and character.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Kingswood Security Consulting ?
At Kingswood Security Consulting, we are a Minneapolis-based risk management firm, we specialize in security risk management for nonprofits, schools, and businesses. In today’s world, understanding your risks and knowing how to manage them has become essential. Whether it’s developing an emergency operations plan or conducting a vulnerability assessment to identify gaps in your security program, these efforts require both time and financial investment to effectively protect your organization.
We are nationally recognized for our expertise and thrive in partnering with organizations where security may not be a daily focus but is critical to maintaining a safe and secure environment. Our goal is to simplify the complex world of risk management, equipping organizations with the tools and strategies they need to safeguard their people and assets.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
There is a saying that when you work alone you go faster but when you work with someone you go further, mentorship is a key part to business success in today’s modern world where we are closer through technlogoy a mentorship can not only get you ahead in life or business but it can also stop you from making mistakes.
When I was a young police officeri had applied for a position on a firearms team, a senior detective leader called Melvin Young called me into his office and told me what he say and why I should consider the path of a detective instead. It didn’t dawn on me till years later what he had done. He saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself and he told me. That conversation changed the course of my career and has stuck with me every since, mentionrship and guidance are so important to your success but also it’s important to tell someone what you see in them as you never know how it can change the cause of their life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kingswoodsc.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonosamoh
- soundcloud: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/risk-matters/id1784551358
- Other: https://www.decisiondecks.com/
