The Harley Street BID is home to an incredible variety of businesses, organisations, and practices. Each month, we take a moment to get to know some of the people who make this place so special.
This month, we spoke to Dean Savage, Security Lead at the Harley Street Business Improvement District, to find out more about his role and what his team does to keep the area safe for those who work, visit, and live here.
What are your main responsibilities, and what’s your favourite part of the role?
My role is about keeping the Harley Street area safe and welcoming. I enjoy the interactions with both the public and local businesses. Building strong relationships is key, and I also like that the role keeps me active with lots of walking, which helps with fitness and wellbeing.
How would you describe a typical day?
We meet on the High Street at 7am and start by checking windows and doors to make sure there’s been no damage overnight. Throughout the day, we maintain a high-visibility presence, meeting and greeting the public, engaging with rough sleepers, ensuring e-scooters aren’t used on pavements, and reporting any incidents such as phone thefts. We carry out patrols around Cavendish Square, delivering phone theft awareness talks, and we rotate business welfare checks across different roads so every business sees us regularly. We also liaise with surrounding security teams and the police, share intelligence securely, and deal with issues like shoplifting. Another part of the role involves supporting the Q-Park security team to reduce theft and damage. We usually split into pairs on patrols to stay as visible as possible and cover the BID footprint thoroughly.
What do you enjoy most about working in the Harley Street area?
Definitely the interactions with people, whether that’s the public or local businesses. It’s rewarding to build relationships and know that our presence helps people feel safe.
Do you have any hidden gems or favourite spots in the area you’d recommend?
I really like Paddington Square Gardens. It’s such a vibrant space, full of people from all cultures and of all ages. It’s lovely to see everyone enjoying the area and feeling safe while doing so.
Share something interesting about yourself that others might not know.
I’ve recently started cycling to work. It’s a great way to keep fit, and I’m really enjoying it!
