CSS Welcomes a New Era of Leadership as Paul Connelly Steps Down as CEO

As 2025 begins, CSS is entering an exciting new chapter under the leadership of the next generation.

For decades, our family-run business has grown under the guidance of CEO Paul Connelly, whose career began over 50 years ago as a 12-year-old delivering newspapers, followed by an apprenticeship as a “burglar alarm engineer”.

This year, Paul is stepping back from day-to-day operations to pass the mantle to the ‘new guard’: his sons Callum, Declan and Lewis. The dedicated young Connelly team will be supported by Managing Director Joe McEnaney and the existing senior management team, while continuing to uphold the values and vision that have defined CSS as a trusted Scottish family business – the same one that you have trusted for your security needs for forty years.

Paul extends his thanks to the extensive valued customer base that has supported the businesses development over the decades.

“It had never been on the radar to sell the businesses, instead favouring choosing to continue as a Scottish family concern,” Paul wrote on LinkedIn.

While Paul is transitioning to focus on other pursuits — including charitable causes, leisure activities (golf among them) and exploring acquisition opportunities — he emphasises that he is not retiring, and that he’ll always be available to support the team.

CSS’s success over the years is credited to our exceptional team, our loyal clients and the contributions of Paul’s late brother and co-founder, Jim, along with his brother Pat, who retired in 2016.

Reflecting on the company’s journey in his recent LinkedIn post, Paul shared his motto: “Business is a game — we win, lose or draw”.

As CSS looks to the future, we remain committed to our core values of innovation, community focus and integrity. The team extends our heartfelt thanks to all our clients, colleagues and friends for your continued support as we move into this exciting new chapter.

Here’s to a happy and healthy 2025 for everyone.