5 Skills That Will Serve You in Your Security Career
Written by Jordyn Alger for Security Magazine on May 6, 2026
In a recent feature, Mary Gates, CEO of GMR Security Consulting Group, shares the experience, leadership principles, and career-defining skills that shaped her transition from corporate security executive to trusted security consultant.
Drawing on more than 40 years of experience in investigations, enterprise risk, and physical security, Mary discusses why she chose to enter consulting after retiring from JPMorgan Chase & Co.—and why independent, practitioner-led guidance has become increasingly valuable for organizations navigating today’s complex threat environment.
The article also highlights five core skills Mary believes are essential for effective security leadership, including strategic risk management, crisis leadership, communication, cross-functional alignment, and team development. Throughout the piece, she emphasizes that strong security programs should support business resilience and operational goals—not create unnecessary complexity.
The feature offers insight into Mary’s leadership philosophy, her approach to practical, risk-based security, and the evolving expectations facing today’s security leaders and consultants.