Certification Profile: Kristiina Mellin, CPP, PCI, PSP

Kristiina Mellin, CPP, PCI, PSP, originally started her career in facility services before transitioning to a greater security focus. Mellin was working in a facility services role that oversaw physical security when she volunteered to lead a project implementing updated crisis management plans across the Nordic region. Six months later, Mellin had completed the project and found a passion for security. She soon joined the corporate security team and has been in the security space ever since.

Over the past 20 years, her role within corporate security has spanned Europe, where she has trained and supported crisis teams through a variety of emergencies from terror attacks, floods, and earthquakes to helping manage the massive disruptions caused by the Eyjafjallajökull volcanic ash cloud in Iceland in 2010.

Shortly after fully entering the security space, one of Mellin’s colleagues recommended she join ASIS International. In 2007, Mellin began attending her local chapter meetings in Sweden and soon became an involved member. Two years later, Mellin was elected to the chapter board.

“I have built a fantastic network of peers who have become friends and mentors,” Mellin says. “I have also consulted many fellow members for benchmarking work-related tasks, and every time I've reached out for support, I've received excellent responses and valuable advice.”

Although she first began building her security network with the chapter in Sweden, Mellin says her network today has grown well beyond, and she has met and befriended ASIS members from across the globe. Along with the worldwide professional network her ASIS membership has afforded her, Mellin also notes the benefit of the wide variety of ASIS resources.

“As an ASIS member I have access to tremendous opportunities for learning and professional development, with best practices and a wealth of resources to keep my knowledge and skills up to date. This is incredibly empowering!” Mellin says.

After being an ASIS member for a few years, Mellin decided to pursue the Certified Protection Professional (CPP®) certification. She joined a local CPP study group and successfully passed the exam and earned her certification quickly.

Mellin enjoyed the experience of studying for and earning the CPP so much, she decided to pursue both the Professional Certified Investigator (PCI®) and Physical Security Professional (PSP®) certifications as well. She felt each certification was directly relevant to her role and allowed her to continue to grow and develop her career.

“I was the first female Triple Crown in the world when I achieved it in 2011,” Mellin adds. “My certifications have been my differentiator in the industry, serving as indisputable and unbiased proof of my expertise.”

After earning the ASIS Triple Crown, Mellin went on to serve six years as a volunteer on the ASIS Professional Certification Board (PCB), which establishes all policies related to the certification programs including eligibility requirements, exam content, and exam development. Mellin’s time on the board provided her with valuable insight into accredited certification programs and the rigorous standards of ASIS board certification.

My certifications have been my differentiator in the industry, serving as indisputable and unbiased proof of my expertise.

In addition to her volunteer leadership roles with her local chapter and the PCB, Mellin also served on the Global Nominating Committee, as an assistant regional vice president (ARVP), and on the Global Board of Directors. Today, Mellin is still active in the organization, serving once again in her local chapter as Chapter Chair.

Mellin is grateful to her friends and colleagues who encouraged her to put herself out there and volunteer, and who supported her each step of the way.

“These volunteer roles have challenged my natural introversion, encouraging me to step up, take the lead, and become a spokesperson,” Mellin says. “I have had the privilege of working with many incredible people and teams who have supported me throughout this journey. Without their encouragement, none of this would have been possible.”