Two long-standing figures in the global security recruitment industry are bringing their organisations together, as Cento acquires the assets of U.S. executive search firm SCW Consulting.
The deal brings together Cento CEO Brett Ennals and Tom Verzuh, founder of Colorado-based SCW Consulting, combining decades of industry experience and strengthening recruitment capabilities across the global security and technology markets.
For both leaders, the move represents more than a traditional acquisition. It marks the alignment of two firms that have spent years supporting the growth of the security industry from opposite sides of the Atlantic.
Founded in 2005 by Brett Ennals, Cento has built a strong reputation for specialist recruitment across the Building Services sector, supporting companies operating in Fire, Security, Mechanical, Electrical, Vertical Transportation, HVAC, and Building Services.
SCW Consulting, established in 2000 by Tom Verzuh and headquartered in Colorado, has developed a respected presence in the North American market, focusing on executive and professional recruitment within the physical security and voice/data/interconnect industries.
Together, the firms bring more than 45 years of combined industry expertise and an extensive network of talent across manufacturers, integrators, distributors, and technology companies.
A Partnership Built on Industry Expertise
Brett Ennals said the partnership reflects a shared understanding of the security sector and its evolving talent needs.
“Tom and the SCW Consulting team have built an outstanding reputation in the North American security market. What impressed us most was the depth of their relationships and their understanding of the industry. Bringing our organisations together allows us to combine our global reach with SCW’s strong U.S. presence.”
Ennals added that the acquisition significantly strengthens Cento’s ability to support clients across international markets.
“Security and technology markets are evolving rapidly, and companies need specialist talent more than ever. This partnership allows us to connect organisations with the expertise they need, wherever they are in the world.”
For SCW Consulting founder Tom Verzuh, the move creates new opportunities for clients and candidates alike.
“Over the past two decades we’ve built SCW around deep relationships within the security and technology markets. Joining forces with Cento allows us to expand that reach globally while continuing to support the clients and professionals we’ve worked with for many years. This offers us substantial resources and will expand our North American capabilities and market segments in the physical security and related Building Services market.”
“Brett and the Cento team share the same commitment to industry expertise and long-term partnerships. Together we’re creating a stronger platform to support the next generation of growth in the security industry.”
Strengthening a Global Security Talent Network
The integration of SCW Consulting expands Cento’s footprint in North America while enhancing its access to senior leadership talent and specialist professionals across the security ecosystem.
With operations already spanning Europe, the United States, the UAE, and South Africa, Cento’s expanded network will allow clients to access talent and market insight across both established and emerging security markets.
The combined organisation will offer:
- Greater specialisation in physical and electronic security recruitment
- Expanded executive and board-level search capability
- Stronger North American coverage for global clients
- Broader access to specialist technical and commercial talent
As the security industry continues to evolve - driven by the convergence of physical security, digital infrastructure, and intelligent building technologies - both leaders believe the partnership positions their organisations to better support companies navigating this change.
