Optic Security Group achievers recognised at the 2022 New Zealand Security Awards

Two members of the Optic Security Group team have been recognised as category winners at the 2022 New Zealand Security Awards.

In first in-person edition of NZ Security Awards Gala Dinner following the outbreak of COVID-19, Lee Ashton was recognised for excellence in his role as Optic’s Auckland-based Senior Systems Architect, winning the Design and Support Electronic Sector Professional of the Year award.

In 2021/22, Lee led several complex security system design and implementation projects across New Zealand and across the Tasman. These involved working closely with geographically dispersed stakeholders, including IT teams, site security, and facilities teams to deliver integrated and centrally managed multi-site solutions.

“Optic’s ability to provide solutions that reconcile security risk with customer specifications, budgets, site specifics and people-focused outcomes, is dependent on a design team that is both technically gifted and creatively outside of the box,” said Optic’s Managing Director, Mark Lloyd, “and to this end we are extremely fortunate to count Lee Ashton as a senior technical design lead.

Lee’s achievements are already widely recognised among his Optic and industry peers, but he keeps on going from strength to strength – there’s just no stopping him.

The win represents a double for Lee, who was awarded in same category in 2021.

Wellington-based Security Technician Tipene Henare was also recognised for his outstanding progress in professional development and training, taking home the Electronic Trainee of the Year award.

“As the leader of a business, it’s particularly gratifying when I hear about the work of exceptional trainees we are developing, and Tipene really is a shining example of just how exceptional a trainee can be,” said Mark Lloyd. “He has made a significant and positive impact on our Wellington and Central Region operations.”

“While continuing to learn his trade, Tipene has impressed those around him, and his example inspires those around him to be better at what they do. Although only newly an apprentice, he is also adding real value to our projects and working at a level far in excess of his 12 months’ experience with Optic in the electronic security technical trade.”

Optic was a proud sponsor of this year’s awards, sponsoring the category of ‘Outstanding New Product or Service of the Year’. The winner’s trophy, presented by Optic’s General Manager New Zealand Mike Nugent, went to Crosbies Security Limited for their Smart Solar Towers.

Optic was also proud to have a number of shortlisted finalists within its ranks, including Customer Champion of the Year finalist Karl Philbin, Install and Service Electronic Sector (Corporate) Technician of the Year finalist Nikki Sutherland, and Security Integrator of the Year team of finalists Lee Ashton, Karl Philbin, Bartho Huyser, and Sam Xie.