Working with students and staff from over 150 countries, Faraz helps create a campus that is open to all, where everyone feels safe to connect, learn and grow.
Faraz Naseer has been a consistent and reassuring presence for everyone who sets foot on UCL’s Bloomsbury campus. As Security Manager, he oversees daily operations and leads a team dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment. “Safety is the foundation,” he says. “It allows everything else to flourish.”
Faraz initially started at UCL after being temporary transferred from King’s College. His professionalism and commitment quickly made him indispensable, and UCL offered him a permanent role. Ten years later, he not only leads the security team, but has taken on the role of Beadle, an historic, ceremonial role at UCL. Faraz is the first Asian Beadle at any English university, and he has carried the ceremonial Mace at UCL graduations for eight years – supporting up to 17 ceremonies a week.
Faraz and his team’s role goes beyond security: “It’s about trust, empathy, partnership, and creating the best environment for people,” he explains. “We’re helping the community to happen”. An important role at a huge institution with over 17000 staff and 53000 students! From welcoming high-profile figures, to guiding students through difficult moments, Faraz strives to reflect UCL’s commitment to openness and inclusion in his work. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from or who you are; UCL welcomes all communities.”
He hopes his daughters will one day join UCL’s diverse community – although, he jokes, they might not appreciate the close eye he’d keep on them! He hopes his work continues to support a campus where everyone feels safe to connect, learn, and grow without fear.
Part of the joy of the job is its variety. Every day is different. Students from over 150 countries come together here; it makes our job more interesting.
