Sara Norrie joins FIRST Security as new CEO, becoming the first female to lead the company and the first to lead a physical security provider in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Norrie joins FIRST Security from Wilson Parking New Zealand, where she has spent the last 18 years, earning a reputation for people-focused leadership, customer-focused delivery, and innovation.
She brings experience from service-driven organisations, with earlier roles in the Metropolitan Police in the UK and Qantas.
“Sara’s appointment as CEO is testament to her strong leadership, proven capability and consistent delivery across the business,” said Wilson Group CEO Jose Da Silva. “As our first female CEO, her progression is also indicative of our ongoing advancement in building greater diversity across our executive and our commitment to developing strong talent across our Group.”
“As a leader, Sara is deeply committed to building inclusive, high-performing cultures and is passionate about uniting people behind a common purpose as FIRST Security enters its next phase of growth. We are confident that under her leadership, we will continue to deliver exceptional service to our customers and communities across Aotearoa.”
Norrie commenced her Wilson Parking New Zealand career as Finance Manager, advancing through operational and executive positions, leading the company’s Auckland Parking business then serving as Executive General Manager. She stepped into the role of New Zealand Chief Operating Officer in 2020.
During her time at Wilson Parking, Norrie played a pivotal role in transforming operations, lifting performance, and driving growth. She led the business through the Covid-19 pandemic, maintaining profitability while prioritising the safety and wellbeing of staff and customers. Under her leadership, the ParkMate app was successfully rolled out and now serves over 25% of eligible drivers across New Zealand.
“I am excited to take on this new challenge in an industry that aligns closely with my experience,” Norrie said on her appointment.
“FIRST Security is a strong business with great people and innovating at pace.,” she said. “Their philosophy of protecting people first and fostering genuine client relationships and authentic partnerships is something that definitely connects with my principles as a leader. I am looking forward to working with the team to build on that foundation.”
Norrie replaces outgoing CEO Tim Covic who moves on after seven successful years with the business—during which he drove growth, innovation, and operational excellence.
“Tim leaves FIRST Security in a strong position, and we thank him for his outstanding leadership and dedication,” said Da Silva concluded. “We now look forward to this next chapter under Sara’s leadership.”
Sara Norrie will begin her new role this week.
