Eugene’s Passion for History

Meet Eugene Granger, Security Supervisor at Marble Arch House.

 

1Can you explain your role in one sentence?I supervise a team of security officers who are responsible for the safety and security of our occupiers and their property.

2How long have you been doing this job?I have been in my current role for four years but have worked in the security industry for the last 15.

3Did you find yourself in this role by accident or by design?By design. I started my career as a Train Inspector working for the ‘National Railways of Zimbabwe’ which is where I worked for 27 years. It was an easy decision to move into the security industry when I came over to England as both industries involve lots of public interaction and managing the safety of others.

4What’s the best part about your job?Working for an employer that truly values its staff and their opinions. British Land is a very innovative company and creates a wonderful sense of belonging. We are all one big family. I also take great pride in my interactions with my co-workers and the occupiers of Marble Arch House.

5What’s the strangest thing that has ever happened to you in your job?We do sometimes get some strange cold callers with very odd requests. However, the strangest thing that I ever heard of was during my time working for the ‘National Railways of Zimbabwe’ in the 1970s. There was an incident when a baby flew out of an open window on a train as it went round a tight corner at high speed… Unbelievably the baby landed in a bush still wrapped in its blanket. The baby was found unharmed and fast asleep. It was a miracle.

6What do you enjoy doing when you are not at work?I am a big sports fan and often spend my weekends glued to the TV watching Formula 1 or West Ham play football. I am also really into history and love spending my time exploring London’s historical sites. My favourite place to visit is the Lesnes Abbey over in South East London. The site holds the ruins of a 12th century monastery with a sinister past.

7What do you like about this area?I love the diversity and culture of Marble Arch. The area is constantly evolving, and we have a fantastic blend of old and new. It is always quite a sight when you see horse drawn carriages going past Marble Arch.

8Where’s your favourite place to go for lunch in the local area?I usually bring a packed lunch to work as I do not like being far from my desk in case there is an emergency. However, my favourite local restaurant would have to be Bernadi’s. I am a big fan of Italian food.

9Who is YOUR hero and what is it about them that inspires you?My late mother. She raised 10 children and later adopted 6 orphans during the AIDS epidemic in Zimbabwe. My mother taught us all the importance of respecting yourself and others regardless of social standing.

10If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?I would like to travel to the Middle East, specifically to Israel. My grandfather was Welsh and had some Jewish heritage, so I am interested in learning more about the culture.