Meet The Testudo Team

Vaughan Peterson
Managing Director

Born in South Africa but raised in Germany and England, Vaughan joined the British Army in 2005 and is still currently serving. Having completed overseas tours of Afghanistan and Africa, with a variety of overseas assignments, he has gained a sound knowledge of cultural differences and with having served with a variety of different Army Units from REME, Artillery, Infantry and Parachute Regiments, understands the compromising factors of working with a variety of individuals. Working within Finance and acquisition for HM Armed Forces he understands the intricacies faced with complex situations that require careful negotiations and cost effective decision making, whilst still ensuring Operational effectiveness and output. This does transcends into the security sector for the nation as a whole.

In 2023 Testudo Security Ltd was formed. Based out of Colchester, the home of the UK based Roman Gladiators and entwined with its proud history of the Parachute Regiments, Vaughan had the desire to inject new blood and young blood sourcing it directly from the British Military. In order to support this venture, he took it upon himself to implement a SIA training course at Merville Barracks on a monthly basis, getting 12-24 Military personnel trained as fully qualified DS badge holders. To this date Testudo has helped more than 200 military personnel gain a qualification and help implement a good work force into the industry up and down the country.

The vision for Testudo Security Ltd, in short,  to provide quality over quantity. One aspect of this is being able to help and assist soldiers with future employment when they leave the service. Testudo Ltd  assisted a good number of Veterans with securing permanent work upon leaving the forces. Something they are extremely passionate and proud of being involved in. This vision is met with helping businesses up and down the country with their security workforce. Assisting where and when it is needed.

Gavin Shiels
Operations Manager

Originally from Manchester, Gavin Shiels joined the Army in 2003 and dedicated 22 years to serving his country, completing multiple tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. Throughout his military career, Gavin had the opportunity to serve in force protection roles, gaining invaluable experience in high-pressure environments. His army career also took him around the world, participating in numerous exercises and operations.

During his career Gavin took on the role as a Phase 1 Instructor at AFC Harrogate, where he trained under-18s to join the army, passing on his extensive knowledge and discipline to the next generation of soldiers.

In 2022, Gavin completed his SIA (Security Industry Authority) qualification, marking a new chapter in his career. He joined Testudo as Operations Manager, where he now oversees the deployment of highly skilled SIA officers, ensuring the smooth execution of security tasks from start to finish. Gavin’s background in both military and security operations has fostered a deep passion for his role, and he takes pride in contributing to the growth and success of Testudo, an expanding company committed to excellence.