Shehzad Nazir - Start-up Case Study

Shehzad Nazir, who is originally from Pakistan, completed an MSc in International Business at LJMU. He is the Director of Progressive Group Services Ltd (PGS), an SIA-Approved Contractor providing professional security services across the UK. PGS works with businesses, construction companies, corporate clients, retail, events, and public sector organisations that require reliable and professional security personnel.

Where did the idea for your business come from?

The idea came from identifying a gap in the market for a security company that genuinely prioritises quality, compliance, and exceptional customer service. I wanted to build a business that clients could trust while also creating employment opportunities for licensed security professionals.

There are over 11,500 security businesses operating across the UK, but only around 850 have achieved SIA Approved Contractor (ACS) status. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) is recognised as the industry's benchmark for quality, compliance, and operational excellence. From the beginning, my ambition was not simply to start another security company, but to build one that met these high standards. Achieving ACS accreditation has been one of the proudest milestones for Progressive Group Services Ltd and reflects our commitment to professionalism, continuous improvement, and delivering high-quality security services across the UK.

How long did it take from having the idea to actually launching the business?

There is no fixed timeline for starting a successful business; it really depends on your business idea, your vision, and what you want to achieve. Some businesses can launch within a few months, while others take years to reach their long-term goals. The important thing is to stay committed, keep learning, and focus on continuous improvement rather than expecting overnight success.

I officially started Progressive Group Services Ltd in 2021 with a clear long-term vision. From day one, my goal was not just to launch a security company but to build one that would be recognised for quality, professionalism, and compliance. Over the following years, we focused on developing strong customer relationships, investing in our people, improving our operational processes, and meeting the highest standards expected within the UK security industry.

By 2024, we had built a growing client network and implemented the systems, compliance, and quality management processes needed to operate at the highest level. Our commitment to continuous improvement was recognised in 2025, when Progressive Group Services Ltd was awarded SIA Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) status. This is regarded as one of the highest standards in the UK private security industry and represents excellence in quality, compliance, and operational performance.

Looking back, it took around four years of consistent hard work, resilience, and determination to achieve this milestone. My advice is not to compare your journey with anyone else's. Set clear goals, stay focused, keep improving every day, and trust the process. If you remain committed to your vision, success will follow.

Did you use the LJMU Start-Up Hub?

Yes. The LJMU Start-Up Hub provided valuable guidance during the early stages. They helped me better understand business planning, available support, networking opportunities, and the practical steps involved in starting a business in the UK. The advice, encouragement, and resources they offered gave me greater confidence to pursue my entrepreneurial journey.

What visa are you currently on, and how does that affect how you run your business?

I am now a British citizen. My entrepreneurial journey began as an international student, and over the years I successfully progressed through the UK's immigration system while continuing to develop my business. Becoming a British citizen has given me long-term stability and the confidence to invest further in the growth of the company, expand our services across the UK, recruit more people, and build lasting relationships with clients. Looking back, understanding each stage of the immigration process and planning ahead was an important part of my business journey.

What are the challenges to plan for when setting up a business while on a student visa?

One of the biggest challenges is understanding what activities are permitted under your visa conditions. It is also important to plan your finances carefully, understand UK regulations, build professional networks, and manage your time effectively alongside your studies. Success comes from balancing your education with your entrepreneurial ambitions while always remaining compliant with immigration rules.

How did you navigate the visa transition to being able to trade legally?

I made sure I fully understood the immigration rules before taking any steps. As my immigration status progressed, I ensured the business remained fully compliant with all legal, tax, and regulatory requirements. Planning ahead, staying informed, and seeking professional advice where necessary made the transition much smoother and allowed me to continue growing the business with confidence.

What was the biggest challenge you faced as an international student starting a business in the UK?

Building credibility was probably the biggest challenge. As a new entrepreneur and international graduate, earning the trust of clients and establishing industry relationships took time. Another major challenge was achieving SIA Approved Contractor (ACS) status, which required significant investment in compliance, quality management systems, operational processes, and continuous improvement. Reaching this standard was a significant achievement and reinforced our commitment to excellence.

What do you wish you had known before you started?

I wish I had known how important networking is. Building relationships with mentors, industry professionals, and potential clients can make a significant difference. I also underestimated how much time compliance, administration, and regulations would require. Every challenge became a learning opportunity that helped me grow both personally and professionally.

What advice would you give to an international student at LJMU who has a business idea but does not know where to start?

Start by validating your idea, researching your market, and speaking to the LJMU Start-Up Hub. Don't wait until everything is perfect before taking the first step. Be prepared to learn continuously, ask questions, and build a strong network. Most importantly, be patient because building a successful business takes time. Stay resilient, embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, and believe in your vision. Every successful business starts with one decision, to begin.

Any specific tips around the visa side of things for students thinking about entrepreneurship?

Always make sure you fully understand your visa conditions before starting any business activity. Immigration rules can change, so always refer to official guidance or seek professional advice where necessary. Plan your visa pathway early so you can focus on building your business with confidence. With the right planning, determination, and compliance, being an international student should never stop you from achieving your entrepreneurial ambitions.

Support from the Student Futures team 

If you want to talk about potential careers options with your degree, need help finding opportunities or want support with your CV, application forms or preparing for an interview, you can get advice and guidance by booking a 30-minute 1-2-1 careers meeting with a Careers and Employability Adviser from the LJMU Student Futures Team.  You can also come along to a Careers drop-in which take place weekly at the Careers Zones for quick careers queries.

If you are thinking about starting a business, freelancing, pursuing a side-hustle or have an idea that you want to explore further, email the Start-up Hub and a member of the team will be back in touch, or visit the Start-up Hub website.

For help finding part-time, temporary or casual you can fit around your studies, email the Unitemps team or visit their website.