INTERVIEW WITH OUR MD MUNHIB SYED

Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month with Munhib Syed and Lexnis.

So Munhib, can you share a bit about your early life in Pakistan and what inspired you to move to the UK? “I was born and raised in Pakistan, where I completed my first Master’s degree in Marketing. However, I always aspired to a higher level of education, which led me to explore opportunities abroad. My journey started in Ireland, where I pursued further studies. However, it was in the UK where I truly found my place. The UK offered the educational and professional opportunities I sought, and I fell in love with the country’s vibrant environment personally and professionally.

Initially, my plan was to return to Pakistan or the Middle East after my studies, but the UK became home, especially after my family grew here. Alongside this journey, I navigated an arranged marriage with Sumee )(our ‘now’ CEO!). Our marriage was a blend of tradition and modernity—we connected over MSN Messenger and met in person for the first time two days after our wedding! Even this experience, was about having a clear vision, aligning with absolutely the right partner and focussing on a bright and happy future.  When you find the right partner, whether in life or business, you just know! It’s about mutual respect, understanding and a shared commitment to a promising journey ahead. I felt a lot of promise when I got my head down in my studies.  That all said, leaving Pakistan was a significant step, driven by a desire for world-class education and new experiences. It wasn’t just about academics; it was about building a life, with the support and encouragement of my family.

What was your first impression of the UK, and did it align with the expectations you had before moving?
My first impression of the UK, was a mix of intrigue and excitement. The energy of everything, the diversity of its people, and the rich history immediately captivated me. I had expected a level of cultural shock, but what surprised me actually was the warmth and openness of everyone I met. I remember being struck by the architecture and the bustling streets, feeling a sense of freedom and endless possibilities – it really was the start of an interesting story. The UK offered me a new academic environment and the chance to pursue a Master’s degree in Business Process Reengineering and an MSc in Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism Studies, further broadening my horizons. The experience exceeded my expectations, and the inclusiveness and opportunities here made it easy to see why so many people from diverse backgrounds choose to call this place home.

You mentioned being surprised at the warmth and opportunities. Can you elaborate on your experiences in this regard? Absolutely. The warmth I felt came from the kindness and open-mindedness of the people. One particular experience stands out: as a student, I was once robbed, which took me by surprise but it didn’t put me off. How my friends rallied around reinforced my belief that I was in the right place. The UK provided not just academic opportunities to me but also a nurturing environment that encouraged me to push my boundaries and explore new avenues. It wasn’t just about academics; it was about the chance to really build something.

How did your transition from a security officer to a managing director unfold?
The transition from a security officer to a managing director in my own portfolio of companies has been anything but a straight line really.  It has been a journey marked by hard work, sleepless nights, and a relentless pursuit within me to  grow and succeed. I started as a security officer while studying, juggling night shifts and coursework by day. The job taught me resilience and perseverance. My ambition drove me to explore new opportunities, and when a chance arose to move into a control room role, I took a pay cut, seeing it as a strategic move, much to the surprise of my room mates.  This decision paid off, as I quickly climbed the ranks, eventually becoming a Control Room Manager. Founding Lexnis Security was a natural next step. It was driven by a desire to create a company that prioritised integrity, innovation, and customer satisfaction. One pivotal moment was when I presented a two-month project opportunity to my then MD, who wasn’t interested. That was a turning point; I decided to leave and take the plunge myself. The client from that project remains with us today, nearly twenty years on, highlighting the importance of strong relationships and trust. The company has evolved so much in the last three years; it’s unbelievable. I’m currently working towards a five-year plan to build Lexnis into a multinational company. And, who knows, a personal plane might be in the cards, considering my frequent trips to Dubai!”

What do you hope to convey to others about your journey and South Asian Heritage Month?
I want to share a narrative that resonates with people from all walks of life. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the importance of staying true to one’s roots. South Asian Heritage Month is a time to celebrate our rich culture and the contributions of our community. I hope to inspire others, particularly those from similar backgrounds, to embrace their heritage and pursue their dreams with passion. This series isn’t about celebrating success; it’s about recognising the struggles, the sacrifices, and the triumphs that come with being an entrepreneur and an immigrant. It’s about connections and showing that with dedication, and good people around you anything is possible.

What were some of the cultural, financial, or other challenges you faced when you first arrived in the UK, and how did you overcome them?
Moving to the UK was a significant leap, both culturally and financially. The cost of living was higher than I was accustomed to, and balancing part-time work with full-time studies was challenging. My first winter in London was particularly tough; the cold was a stark contrast to the climate I was used to, and I could have felt homesick were it not for the fact I was burning the candle at both ends trying to study and work around the clock. The cultural differences, from communication styles to social norms, were also a learning curve. However, I approached everything with an open mind and a willingness to adapt which I think were great life and business skills I learned. I immersed myself in the culture, made friends from diverse backgrounds, and sought guidance from mentors. Financially, I took on various jobs, from working as a security officer to hosting at football events (even thought I knew nothing about the sport) to support myself. These experiences taught me resilience and adaptability—essential traits for any entrepreneur I would say.

Can you describe any particular experiences or moments that were pivotal in helping you adapt to life in the UK?
A pivotal moment was when I decided to stay in the UK after completing my studies. Initially, I had planned to return to Pakistan or move to the Middle East, but the opportunities here were too compelling. Another significant experience was securing my first job in the security industry. It was a modest start, but it provided invaluable insight into the industry I now love. Working night shifts was challenging, but it also offered me a deeper understanding of the operational aspects of security. The support and camaraderie from my colleagues and mentors were crucial in helping me navigate this new environment. These experiences not only helped me adapt but also laid the foundation for my future career and have given me great insights to enable strong relationships with our own security teams.

How did your education influence your career path and entrepreneurial ambitions?
“Education has always been a cornerstone of my journey. It was a priority in our family and it was never an option for me that I wouldn’t pursue the highest level of learning. My parents instilled in me the belief that a great education is the key to unlocking opportunities and achieving success.  They emphasised its importance from a young age, and this value has guided me through every step of my academic and professional life and it’s something I instil in my three children now.  My academic pursuits in marketing, business process re-engineering, and terrorism studies provided me with a broad understanding of various fields. The rigorous academic environment in the UK challenged me to think critically and creatively. My studies in terrorism and counter-terrorism, in particular, sparked my interest in security and geopolitics. I think they have  taught me to analyse complex issues from multiple perspectives and think strategically – something valuable in business of course.  This academic background was also instrumental in shaping my entrepreneurial ambitions and it has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to identify market opportunities and innovate solutions. My education wasn’t just about acquiring degrees; it was about cultivating a mindset that could navigate and solve real-world challenges and I draw on that knowledge and experience every day.

Did you face any stereotypes or misconceptions about being a South Asian immigrant, and how did you address them?
Honestly, I can’t really recall facing any negative stereotypes or misconceptions. I’ve always been just myself, ploughing on, head down and making connections, making things happen one way or the other! Some people might have doubted my capabilities or questioned my potential for success as I was not native to the UK, but I focussed on demonstrating my competence through hard work and consistently delivering results.  Building relationships was key to me in the early days and earning the trust of my peers and clients has been crucial to me throughout. I also made it a point to embrace and showcase my unique cultural perspectives and interests as a strength.  By staying true to my values and leveraging my experiences I was able to break down barriers to make things happen. 

Early in my career, I needed the money and so I continued in various security roles. I was always very ambitious and knew that staying in a comfortable role as a security officer, whilst an important and critical position, wasn’t actually my dream.  As I progressed to a Welfare manager I worked in some incredible business and my ambition led me to become a Contracts manager.  After five years in that role I sought further advancement moving to another company as Business Manager and was eventually promoted to Security Solutions Director. This career path was all about challenges I set myself, far removed from any stereotypes or misconceptions.  It was a personal challenge of mine to achieve a director position before I was 40, and I made it at 39.  It’s important we all have goals however small. My journey has been about continuously pushing forwards and seizing every opportunity.

What advice would you give to other South Asians moving to the UK with entrepreneurial aspirations?
To fellow South Asians moving to the UK with entrepreneurial dreams, my advice is straightforward: stay focused and resilient. The journey will have its ups and downs, but doesn’t every journey?  Embrace your heritage as a strength and leverage it in your business endeavours. My advice is to build a robust network, seek out mentors, and don’t shy away from taking calculated risks – some say the devil is in the detail, I say it’s also in overthinking – I like to just get things done. It’s crucial that you remain adaptable and open to learning new things. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Most importantly, believe in yourself, your vision and remain focussed.

What inspired you to start Lexnis Security, and what were the initial steps you took to establish the company?
The inspiration to start Lexnis Security stemmed from my desire to create a company that prioritises quality and customer satisfaction in the security industry, an industry I had grown to love. Having worked in various roles within the sector, I identified a gap for comprehensive and reliable security solutions and transparency, built on trusted relationships. It might sound like word salad right now but the trusted relationships I enjoyed in the early days and those I foster now are the lynch pins of growing our business to where it is today. Our initial steps involved thorough market research to understand our client needs and potential competition but I’m known for spotting opportunities and seizing them and I actually just couldn’t wait to get started. We began small, with just a laptop and a phone in our living room. My wife, Sumee, (link) joined me as co-founder and we wore multiple hats, from managing operations to handling client communications. Our first big break came when we secured a short-term project, which we approached with the utmost professionalism. That project led to more opportunities, and we quickly gained a reputation for delivering top-notch services. It was a challenging start, but our commitment to excellence and our clients’ trust were key to our initial success.

Can you share some of the early challenges you faced when setting up Lexnis Security?
We had limited resources and we had to be very strategic with our spending and very clever with our time. Additionally, finding the right team was and remains today, absolutely crucial. We needed individuals who not only had the technical skills but also aligned with our values of integrity and dedication.  Finding the right people for our business has probably been my overriding biggest challenge. Another challenge was building credibility in a competitive market. We were a new company, and gaining the trust of clients was vital. We tackled these challenges by delivering exceptional service and maintaining transparent communication with all our customers, I don’t think I was ever off the phone. Our focus was always on quality and building long-term relationships, which eventually paid off.”

How did you secure your first clients, and what strategies did you use to build trust and credibility?
Our first clients came through the strong relationships I had built during my years in the industry, I had 15 years of contacts under my belt and they were to become very important to me. I had always valued integrity and professionalism, which resonated with people. To build trust and credibility, we focused on delivering more than what was expected. We made sure our clients felt valued and listened to, and we were transparent about our processes and services. Our strategy was simple: provide top-quality service, be reliable, and maintain open lines of communication. We also leveraged referrals and word-of-mouth, as satisfied clients became our best advocates. This approach helped us establish a strong reputation and build a loyal client base. I firmly believe that word of mouth marketing is the most effective tool you can leverage when you’re building your brand.

What role did Sumee play in the early days of Lexnis Security?
Sumee was an integral part of Lexnis from the very beginning, the business wouldn’t exist  as it is without her. As the CEO, she brought a unique perspective and a wealth of experience in managing business operations. Her organizational skills were crucial in setting up efficient systems and processes and keeping me on track – not an easy job! Sumee also played a key role in client relations, ensuring that we maintained strong and positive relationships with our clients. Her support was invaluable, especially during the early days when we were stretched thin. She handled multiple aspects of the business, from finance to HR, and her dedication was a driving force behind our growth. Together, we navigated the challenges and laid a strong foundation for the company.”

Looking back, what would you say were the key factors that contributed to the successful launch of Lexnis Security?
The key factors that have contributed to our growth have been our unwavering commitment to quality, our focus on building strong relationships, and our willingness to take calculated risks. We were dedicated to delivering exceptional service, which helped us build a solid reputation. Our ability to adapt and learn from each experience was also crucial. We were not afraid to make bold decisions, whether it was investing in new technology, making changes in the team to get the right people in place or expanding our services. Additionally, having a clear vision and a strong team, including the invaluable support from Sumee, were instrumental in our success. It was a combination of hard work, strategic planning, and a bit of luck that helped us get where we are now.”

What were the most significant challenges you faced as a South Asian entrepreneur in the UK, and how did you tackle them?
As a South Asian entrepreneur in the UK, I haven’t really faced challenges specifically because of my heritage. Any challenges I’ve encountered have been purely business-related – something every start up or business entrepreneur will relate to. I think my  roots have instilled in me a strong work ethic, and a deep respect for the value of learning and education. This foundation, combined with a positive attitude, has been instrumental in navigating the business landscape in the UK.

One of the key factors in overcoming challenges has been surrounding myself with the right people. Building a strong, competent team with diverse view points and opinions has been crucial to our success. I’ve always prioritised continuous learning, which means being open to failing quickly and building on successes even faster. This mindset has allowed me to adapt and grow, turning potential obstacles into opportunities. While I have friends in different countries who have encountered difficulties, I’ve been fortunate to find a welcoming and supportive environment in the UK, where my focus on hard work and education has been well-received. “

Can you describe a particularly challenging situation you encountered after you completed your education and how you navigated through it?
It was a challenging time during the 2008 financial crisis when industry was significantly affected and opportunities for a graduate were slim. I needed an income, and I initially thought it would be easy breezy to just walk into a great role with my academic qualifications.  I realised I had to adapt. It was during that time that I decided to stick it out in the security industry, taking a pay cut to gain control room experience. This decision turned out to be one of the best and most pivotal moments in my career.

By immersing myself in the frontline of the industry, I gained invaluable hands-on experience and a deep understanding of how the sector operates. This experience has been crucial in enabling me to remain agile and responsive in my current role. It taught me the importance of understanding every aspect of the business, from the ground up, and allows me now to relate on a personal and practical level my security teams in the front line. This perspective has been invaluable as decisions I am making about our growth are made with a comprehensive understanding of the realities faced by all team members making it happen on the ground for our clients.

How then have your experiences and challenges shaped your approach to business and leadership?
My experiences have massively shaped my approach to business and leadership. I’ve learned that leadership is not just about making decisions but also about empowering others, there are only so many hours in the day and you can’t be in two places at once (although I often try!) so it’s crucial to have a trusted team around you. I’ve always believed in leading by example, showing integrity, and being transparent. These challenges taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and empathy. Myself and Sumee have set out to create a culture where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best and share their opinions whether they be about challenges or growth.

What support systems or resources did you find most helpful in overcoming these challenges?
The support from my family, especially Sumee, was instrumental in overcoming many challenges. Her unwavering support and belief in our vision was, and is, a constant source of strength. Additionally, the mentorship and advice from industry veterans provided valuable insights and guidance. We also benefited from networking with other entrepreneurs and being part of professional organisations. These connections offered a platform for exchanging ideas and learning from others’ experiences and I’m happy to say that I’m still in regular contact with many connections from my early days in security over 20 years ago.

How do you stay motivated and resilient in the face of ongoing challenges?
Staying motivated and resilient is all about maintaining a positive mindset and a clear vision. For me, the passion for what I do and the desire to see Lexnis succeed keep me going. I find motivation in the progress we make and the impact we have on our clients. Spending time with my family, especially my kids, is a great way to recharge, we make a point between business trips to get out and do something – even if it’s a couple of hours and a nice meal in London, having that quality family time and sharing stories is a great energy boost. I also find solace in reading (I am always reading 4 or 5 different newspapers from the countries we operate), travelling (which is a must as I am away from home 50% of the time), and staying informed about global trends which affect our industry. These activities help me gain new perspectives and stay inspired, I have to love what I do to be the best I can be. Surrounding myself with a supportive leadership team that ‘really get’ each other and the business goals is crucial. “

How did you identify the initial market needs that Lexnis Security would address?
Identifying the initial market needs for Lexnis Security was a result of my experience and observations in the industry. I noticed a growing demand for integrated security solutions that could cater to diverse client needs. The market lacked companies that offered a comprehensive range of services, from physical security to electronic systems. We saw an opportunity to fill this gap by providing high-quality, customisable solutions. It actually wasn’t rocket science. We listened to our clients and realised this was about them and their needs, rather than our pursuit to be a certain type of business. Once we understood their specific requirements we set about to deliver a dedicate service completely client-centric.   This wasn’t about taking a service to market it was about responding to the market needs and aiming to do it better. “

What were the key factors you considered when building your team at Lexnis Security?
When building our team, Sumee and I focused on finding individuals who embodied our core values of integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence. We sought people with diverse skill sets, as we believed that a variety of perspectives would lead to innovative solutions. It was crucial to find team members who were not only skilled but also shared our vision and passion for the industry. Another key factor was the ability to work collaboratively and adapt to our fast-paced environment – and when I get an idea in my head, I work fast! We valued resilience and a positive attitude, above all. “

Can you describe the range of services Lexnis Security offers and how these have evolved over time?
Lexnis Security started with offering basic security services, but we’ve significantly expanded our offerings over time. Today, we provide a comprehensive range of services, including physical security, electronic security systems, and facilities management to world-class brands in marine, logistics and private education. We’ve also ventured into specialised areas like mobile patrolling and risk assessment.  In Dubai our brands have expanded to include a host of technical services and we are trusted by some of the world’s biggest names in the hospitality industry. Our services have evolved in response to the changing needs of our clients and advancements in technology. We’ve always prioritised trying new things where there is opportunity, and as the industry has progressed, we’ve incorporated new technologies and surveillance systems. But it’s how we do things which I believe is the root to success not simply a vast portfolio of products.”

How do you ensure that your team stays innovative and at the forefront of the industry?
Ensuring that our team stays innovative involves a combination of continuous learning and fostering a culture of creativity. We encourage our team members to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies. We’re all back in the office these days and it’s a buzzy environment, ripe for the brainstorming of ideas and jumping on opportunity.  I like to think we promote a collaborative environment where everyone is encouraged to share ideas and explore new concepts. Regular brainstorming sessions and open discussions are integral to our innovation process. We believe that innovation is a collective effort, and we actively seek input from all team members. Additionally, we invest in research and development to explore new solutions and stay ahead of the curve. If there is an opportunity that makes sense for our business, then I am all over it! “

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs about building a strong and diverse team?
Building a cohesive team is essential for any business’ success, and it has taken us a while to get here. My advice, looking back on how we did things, is to prioritise curiosity in hiring, as it brings a range of perspectives and ideas to the table. Look for individuals who not only have the necessary skills but also align with your company’s values and culture. It’s important to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We all spend so many hours working you need to be able to have fun with, and respect for, those around you also on the same mission.

One of the challenges I’ve faced is recognising that people in the business, within their own areas, often know the details better than I do. It used to be difficult to relinquish control, but it’s crucial for growth. Trusting your team is essential and so it takes time and can be painful to find the right people. Without that trust and alignment, you can’t delegate effectively, and the business won’t thrive. You can’t do it all on your own—it’s not enough to have great ideas in your head (and I have a lot!) if you’re burning out trying to execute them all yourself. Education taught me the value of diverse viewpoints, and it’s a lesson that has been invaluable in building a strong, capable team. While it wasn’t easy, the process of finding and trusting the right people has been worth it.”

What is your vision for the future of Lexnis Security, and what are the key goals you aim to achieve?
Our vision for the future of Lexnis Security is ambitious, like me. We aim to expand our international presence and establish ourselves as a leading provider of comprehensive security solutions worldwide. In the next few years, we plan to diversify our service offerings further, with a strong emphasis on technology-driven solutions, such as advanced surveillance systems and cybersecurity. We also envision expanding our mobile patrolling services and entering new markets, particularly in the Middle East. Our goal is to build a multinational company that not only provides top-notch security solutions but also sets industry standards for innovation and excellence.”

How do you see the security industry evolving, and how is Lexnis Security preparing for these changes?
The security industry is evolving rapidly, with technological advancements playing a significant role. We see a growing trend towards integrated security solutions that combine physical security with digital surveillance and cybersecurity measures. Lexnis is preparing for these changes by investing in research and development and staying at the forefront of technological advancements. We are continuously updating our systems, training our team to handle new technologies and moving to meet our clients’ evolving needs.”

Can you share any upcoming projects or initiatives that you are particularly excited about?
We have several exciting projects and initiatives in the pipeline. One of the most notable is our expansion into cyber security, where we are developing comprehensive solutions to protect our clients from digital threats. We’re also working on enhancing our mobile patrolling services and we are expanding our presence in the Middle East, with new offices just open and partnerships in Dubai. These initiatives are part of our broader strategy to become a global leader in security solutions, and I’m so energised about the opportunities they present.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start their own business in today’s market?
Be adaptable, embrace change but stay focussed at the same time – it’s a bit of a juggle! The market is constantly evolving, and being open to new ideas and innovations is crucial. Focus on understanding your market and your customers’ needs. Build a strong network, value every contact you have and seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support. Don’t be afraid to take risks, but always have a well-thought-out plan B. Most importantly, stay true to your values and maintain a high standard of integrity in your business dealings.  I believe with a clear vision we can all achieve our goals.

How do you balance expanding your business with maintaining quality and innovation?
Balancing expansion with maintaining quality and innovation requires a clear strategy and strong leadership. We  prioritise maintaining high standards by implementing rigorous quality control measures and regularly reviewing our processes. We also invest in our team’s continuous learning and development, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to deliver exceptional service. We maintain close relationships with our clients, I’ve done thousands of business miles this year – you can’t beat a face to face in seeking their feedback to improve and innovate on our offerings. Regular team meetings and open communication help us stay aligned with our goals and ensure that everyone is working towards the same vision. “