With nearly two decades of experience across nearly every facet of the contract security industry, Matthew Porcelli, Security Manager at Harvard Protection Services, stands as a steadfast advocate for the visibility, dignity, and importance of frontline security officers. In 2025, his dedication and thought leadership were recognized with the award title of “Most Influential Risk Manager of the Year” by CToday Awards.

From the outset, Matthew’s path was built not just on ambition but on a deep-rooted calling to protect. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Caldwell University, he initially aspired to a career in law enforcement. However, a pivotal shift in 2009 redirected his focus toward the field of private security. Unlike many who enter at the top, Matthew began his journey on the ground, as a security officer with a contract security provider, while concurrently pursuing a Master of Science in Administration of Justice and Security from the University of Phoenix. This immersive experience at the grassroots level gave Matthew an unmatched appreciation for the value of the people often overlooked in traditional discussions of risk: security officers themselves.

Leading with Passion and Purpose in Every Role

Throughout his rise to operations management—eventually overseeing teams ranging from 20 to 350 security officers across a diverse range of sectors, including aviation, executive protection, and corporate real estate—Matthew never lost sight of the frontline.

In 2017, he joined Harvard Protection Services, where he now manages security operations at a high-profile client property along New Jersey’s Hudson River. His core leadership philosophy is clear: “Lead with passion and with purpose.” For him, security is not just a profession, it is a calling—and one that deserves to be respected and nurtured from the ground up. He emphasizes humility, inclusivity, and empowerment in leadership. “Everyone has something to bring to the table,” he asserts, “even if they’re not seated in the C-suite.” This belief has shaped the culture he builds within his teams, where officers are not just deployed, but developed.

Like many pioneers, Matthew’s early days were met with skepticism. He recalls the condescending remarks he heard when choosing to take a pay cut for what others referred to as “just a security guard” job. But he pressed on, undeterred. Instead of letting those comments shake his resolve, they solidified his commitment to elevate the perception and reality of frontline security. These experiences taught him not just humility, but also the profound importance of protecting professionals to the fabric of public safety.

Envisioning the Future of Contract Security

Looking ahead, Matthew sees the security industry—especially contract security—undergoing a major evolution. He envisions a four-tier system that blends security, safety, customer service, and technology into one cohesive operational framework.

“Security officers are no longer just guards,” he says. “They’re ambassadors, first responders, tech-enabled risk mitigators.” With the continuous rise in natural and manmade threats, Matthew believes the industry will increasingly rely on the convergence of physical presence with smart technology to proactively deter risks.

Guidance for the Next Generation

Matthew offers grounded and timeless advice for those aspiring to enter the field: “It’s who you know that gets you the job, and what you know that keeps it.” He encourages young professionals to surround themselves with mentors, give back to the profession for the right reasons, and stay ahead of the curve on emerging trends.

Above all, he urges them to respect the work, no matter the title. “This isn’t about a uniform or a badge,” he says. “It’s about a mindset—a commitment to protect, to learn, and to lead with integrity.”