Robin Dahlberg has begun his term as Acting Chairman of the Security Industry Authority (SIA). He takes over from Peter Hermitage, who announced his decision to step down as Chairman last November.

Robin was invited by Home Office Minister Paul Goggins to take over for an approximate tenure of six-months. An open competition will be held early this year to appoint a permanent Chairman.

Speaking today Robin said:

"I am delighted to begin my role as Acting Chairman of the SIA at this important time. The private security industry is undergoing a fundamental change and the process of introducing licensing in nearly finished.

We will continue to work to raise standards of professionalism and skills and promote best practice. I am looking forward to contributing to the aims of the SIA and working closely with key industry stakeholders and the private security industry to achieve this."

Robin joined the SIA Board at the launch of the SIA in April 2003 and in January 2005 he became Deputy Chairman.