Golden 1 Center Employee Spotlight: VP, Security Operations, Timothy Lea
By Hannah Taheri
At Golden 1 Center, ensuring the safety of the thousands of guests who walk through the doors for every game, concert, or event is our top priority. Our hardworking security team is in charge of making sure each and every event is a posiitve and safe experience for all.
Meet the new Vice President of Security Operations, Timothy Lea!
Tell us a little about your main duties as Golden 1 Center’s new VP of Security Operations/what a typical work day consists of for you.
My overall responsibilities consist of leading, coordinating, and implementing enterprise security strategies to ensure a safe and secure environment for all Kings guests, employees, and other stakeholders. This includes partnering with federal and local law enforcement officials for additional support and continuing to explore and evaluate best practices and technological advances in the security space.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is that there is no typical work day. There are some consistent aspects such as team meetings and resolving issues that occur during events. However, with an arena that programs such a wide range of diverse activities, each event requires its own unique security footprint. It really depends on what is occurring in real time that could necessitate a change in our security posture. Each day brings a new and different challenge.
What types of jobs did you hold prior to working at Golden 1 Center?
Prior to joining the Kings organization, I was a Special Agent with the United States Secret Service, where I served under four U.S. Presidents. My background includes conducting criminal financial investigations and providing protection for U.S. Presidents and world leaders who visited the United States. I retired after 20 years of service.
Did you always know you wanted to work in security?
Actually, I believed my career path would take me into the field of business. After graduating from college with a business degree, I immediately started an MBA program. It was during this time that I met a fellow MBA student in the field of federal law enforcement. He became a mentor to me and guided me through the process of becoming a Special Agent. Growing up, I always admired the Secret Service, but never envisioned myself in the field of law enforcement. This unexpected twist served as a shining example that people you meet along your path can truly make a lasting difference in your life.
I’ve since adopted the mantra that “every unexpected opportunity is worth exploring.”
What do you feel is the most important personality trait for someone to possess in order to hold a job in the security department in an arena like Golden 1 Center?
I believe there are several personality traits that lend to success in a role such as mine. These include the ability to remain flexible as a result of evolving circumstances; being decisive; and the ability to effectively interact and communicate across a wide range of stakeholders. However, in times of crisis, I believe the most important trait that someone in my role should possess, is the ability to remain composed and display a calm sense of leadership to instill trust and confidence among our guests and employees.
What is your favorite part about working at Golden 1 Center?
Working alongside a group of dedicated team members in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment is by far my favorite part about working at Golden 1 Center. How quickly we change over from basketball to concerts and other events is quite impressive. The transitions are seamless to our guests, but there is a tremendous amount of pride taken by our staff to get it right. I feel honored to be a part of such a team.
What do you feel is the most challenging aspect of your job? Most rewarding?
The most challenging aspect of my job is ensuring that the security presence does not feel overbearing for our guests. It’s a delicate balance between creating an environment that’s safe and secure without drawing any undue attention to security operations. In today’s world, guests have come to expect to undergo some level of security screening when visiting places such as Golden 1 Center. My goal is to continue to make that process as seamless as possible.
The most rewarding aspect of my job is an event that concludes with few security related incidents. A boring day in the security world is a successful day.
What is one main goal you hope to accomplish as the new VP of Security Operations?
Golden 1 Center is a best-in-class facility, and I strive for our guests to have a security experience that is equally as positive as the events they enjoy.