Melany le Roux manages the Security Systems and Intelligence department at Stellenbosch University's (SU) Campus Security. She and her team work around the clock to support the campus community with any security-related concerns.
As we kicked off May commemorating Workers' Day, we dedicate this series of articles to our staff and their important contribution to the University. Read our interview with Melany below.
What does your role at SU entail?
My role is to ensure that security systems run optimally to support security operations at SU. I manage a team of ten specialists who serve at the front end of security operations and client services. I am a team leader, so I work hard to motivate my team. I encourage them to share their ideas and ensure that we keep abreast of the latest technology and security trends.
I also fulfil an intelligence role, ensuring that statistics are up to date and analysing our data to identify trends for operational planning purposes. My portfolio further includes communication and safety awareness. I communicate regularly with all security stakeholders (both internally and externally) and the student community to develop and maintain positive working relationships with all stakeholders.
What does a typical day at work look like?
At Campus Security, you can plan your day, but it seldom goes according to plan! In this environment, you must always expect the unexpected and be ready to respond to any challenge and act appropriately. There is no eight-hour workday for me; it is 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Should any security emergency arise at any time, I am contacted for guidance and assistance.
How did your education or past experience prepare you for this job?
I used to serve as an officer in the South African Police Service (SAPS). Twelve years ago, I had the opportunity to interview for the position of crime intelligence officer at Campus Security. My years' experience in the SAPS intelligence environment was one of the required skills on which SU appointed me. In 2019, I was promoted to my current position. I hold a BA degree in Criminology, and I am currently doing my honours degree.
What do you enjoy most about your role and working at SU?
The unexpected daily challenges – if you think you've heard it all, you haven't. It creates a certain excitement for each working day. Helping others has always been my mission in life. Combine that with my passion for safety and it seems that I might just be in the right position! SU's diverse community allows me to be the people person that I am. I enjoy meeting and networking with staff and students on campus.
Tell us something interesting about yourself that few people would expect?
I have faced and overcome many challenges in my life, of which breast cancer was the hardest. It has been a journey of renewed self-discovery and enhanced resilience, and it made me look at life differently, living by faith and in the moment.
