BOW, N.H. — Veronique Forment’s career path representing companies in the security industry took a bit of a detour at the start of this year when Bubble Agency acquired HighRez in January, putting an end to the company she started in December 2001.
In her new role as vice president of strategic accounts for the global PR firm, Froment will continue to represent Acoem, Genetec, i-PRO and Interface Systems. Here’s her story in her own words as we continue to celebrate International Women’s History Month.
Security Sales & Integration: How did you get into the security industry?
Veronique Froment: I’ve spent my entire career helping technology companies manage and protect their reputations—so really, you could say I’ve been in security all along, just the communications kind! I started out in media technology, and moving into physical security was a natural evolution. There’s a lot of crossover between the two: high-resolution imaging, video compression, analytics, AI, cloud transitions—you name it.
In the end, it’s all about innovation and helping businesses operate more efficiently. So, while I didn’t set out to work in security, it turned out to be a perfect fit.
SSI: Have you encountered any difficulties or obstacles in your security industry career?
Froment: Early on in my career, working in such a male-dominated field, I was often the only woman in the room. And when you add being young to that equation, assumptions were made—It was often assumed that my role was clerical instead of a consultant.
But I was fortunate to have fantastic mentors and colleagues who saw my abilities and gave me opportunities to prove myself. I also learned to develop a thicker skin and a good sense of humor.
These days, I don’t feel my gender is an obstacle anymore, but that might be because I’ve been around long enough to confidently take a seat at any table. Plus, working in marketing, I see more women in leadership roles than in some other areas of security. The landscape is shifting, and it’s great to see.
SSI: Who have been the most influential mentors in your career and how did they help you?
Froment: I’ve been incredibly lucky to have mentors who believed in me from the start. Roger Staton, the founder of the first PR agency I worked for, and Richard Weissenberg, my boss at Saatchi & Saatchi, were instrumental in shaping my career.
While their names might not ring a bell here, their impact on me was profound. They led by example, provided guidance, and—most importantly—weren’t afraid to give constructive criticism. That’s the kind of support that helps you grow.
And since stepping into the security industry, I’ve had the privilege of working with brilliant marketing leaders including Andrew Elvish at Genetec, who continuously pushes the boundaries of what great marketing can do. Surrounding yourself with smart, supportive people is key, no matter the industry.
SSI: What is your proudest career accomplishment?
Froment: I may not have a patent to my name or an invention that changed the world (unless you count my ability to turn complex tech jargon into digestible messaging), but I’m incredibly proud of the company I built and led for more than 20 years and recently sold to Bubble Agency, another fantastic tech PR firm.
My goal was never to build a massive empire. I wanted to provide senior-level communications support to companies I admire. And I did just that. Seeing the impact my team and I had on the businesses we worked with is something I’ll always be proud of.
SSI: What do you love most about working in the security industry?
Froment: I often joke that, as a communications professional, I “shuffle air for a living,”—but working in the security industry gives that air real weight and purpose. Knowing that my work contributes (even indirectly) to making places safer and more secure is incredibly rewarding. Plus, the people in this industry are some of the smartest and most passionate I’ve ever worked with. That makes every day interesting.
SSI: How can the security industry become even better?
Froment: We’re at a fascinating turning point in our industry. Security is no longer just about protecting assets. Organizations are integrating security into broader business operations, and that shift is creating exciting opportunities for fresh perspectives, new skills, and, importantly, a more diverse talent pool.
The industry will benefit greatly from bringing in people with different backgrounds, experiences, and expertise—especially as technology continues to evolve. Breaking down traditional silos will create more influential roles for women and open doors for people who may not have considered security as a career before. Change is happening, and I’m excited to see where it takes us.
Click here to read our entire Women in Security Q&A series!
