What started as a small security services firm has grown into the Tenon Group, a global leader in security and facility management, employing nearly 95,000 people and generating an annual turnover of INR 3000 crore!
Major Manjit Rajain is a visionary leader and ambitious entrepreneur, a captivating storyteller and engaging conversationalist, a sharp businessman, and a valued friend. He is also a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and generous philanthropist.
An aviator, globetrotter, adventurer, and connoisseur of vintage cars and fine wines, he moves effortlessly among royalty and influential circles. A fierce nationalist, his patriotism is reflected in every email signature—his own and those of the 95,000 ‘Tenonites’ he leads worldwide, proudly carrying the words ‘Jai Hind’.
Renowned as an achiever and a firm taskmaster, yet above all, he is a remarkable human being—a sentiment wholeheartedly echoed by those who know him well.
In 1995, Major Manjit Rajain took his first entrepreneurial leap, founding Peregrine Guarding from a humble
office in Kapashera, a settlement on the Delhi-Haryana border known for its migrant workforce. What started as a small security services firm has grown into the Tenon Group, a global leader in security and facility management, employing nearly 95,000 people and generating an annual turnover of INR 3000 crore.
As the flagship company, Peregrine Guarding has extended its presence beyond India, establishing operations in Singapore, while Tenon FM, the group’s facility management division, continues to expand across India, the UK and Germany.
Enhancing its technological edge, Soteria, an integral part of the Tenon Group, was established in 2014. It operates a state-of-the-art 24/7/365 remote monitoring Command Centre, serving as a centralized hub for E -surveillance, with a global presence spanning India, Germany, the UK, and Singapore.
From the Indian Army to Entrepreneurship
Major Rajain, a former officer of the Armoured Corps, dedicated several years to the Indian Army before taking early release. The eldest of three siblings, he hails from a family committed to service—his father, a decorated Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, inspired his sense of duty and discipline. Growing up in Rohtak and Chandigarh, where his father was posted, Major Rajain was deeply influenced by the values of courage and leadership, eventually joining the Army to uphold the same commitment to service.
After leaving the military, he briefly served as a police officer in strife torn state of Jammu & Kashmir during the late 1990s at the peak of militancy, experiencing firsthand the challenges of counterinsurgency.
However, his true passion lay in business and entrepreneurship. The moment he secured his first security contract and heard the first ring of the cash register, there was no turning back. It was a defining milestone that set him on the path to transforming his vision into reality.
A Visionary Entrepreneur and Passionate Aviator
Flamboyant, ambitious, and always on the move, Major Rajain is a leader driven by an unrelenting passion for success. His fascination with aviation took flight when he earned his Private Pilot’s License (PPL) in the UK — a reflection of his adventurous spirit and determination to push boundaries. Taking his love for the skies a step further, he acquired a Piper aircraft, stationed in the UK, which he still pilots, embracing every flight as both a pursuit of passion and a metaphor for his soaring ambitions.
His continued commitment to aviation didn’t stop there. It evolved into founding Redbird Aviation, a venture that has grown under his fast-paced, visionary leadership into Asia’s largest flight training academy. Redbird Aviation operates six state-of-the-art flight training schools across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh, while also expanding its footprint in Delhi NCR and recently marking its presence in Sri Lanka. With a robust fleet of approximately 60 aircraft, the academy has cemented its reputation as a leader in pilot training, empowering aspiring aviators and contributing to the growth of the aviation industry.
Major Rajain’s journey is a testament to his belief that the sky is not the limit — it’s just the beginning! Whether in the boardroom or the cockpit, his relentless drive fuels both his personal passions and professional ventures, propelling them to new heights.
In pursuit of adventure beyond aviation, Major Rajain also undertook a gruelling trek across the South Pole, covering miles of frozen terrain in extreme conditions, braving temperatures as low as -35°C—a testament to his resilience and determination.
A Legacy of Leadership and Growth
Major Rajain strategically established Mortice Limited as an investment holding. It was incorporated in Singapore and listed on the London Stock Exchange (AIM) in 2008, providing the much-needed finance to fuel the rapidly growing businesses of Peregrine Guarding and Tenon Facility Management, two of its key operational brands.
Under Major Rajain’s leadership, the Tenon Group has expanded from a single security company into a global powerhouse through strategic acquisitions:
● 2007: Launched Tenon Facility Management to provide integrated facility services.
● 2009: Acquired RotoPower, strengthening Tenon’s electromechanical services.
● 2010s: Expanded globally with the acquisition of UK-based O&G Group and Elite Services UK, as well as Singapore-based Frontline Security, later rebranded as Peregrine Security Pte.
● 2014: Established Soteria Command Center, specializing in e-security and remote surveillance.
His business acumen has translated into tangible success, notably in Singapore, where the acquisition of Frontline Security resulted in a 130% increase in profitability between 2019 and 2020, with client retention surging from 50% to over 80% and the customer base growing fourfold.
Beyond Business: Family, Philanthropy & Thought Leadership
Major Rajain is married to Urvashi, his steadfast source of strength and support. Their two sons, Angad and Anuj, have inherited his entrepreneurial spirit, carrying forward his vision with determination and innovation.
Angad Rajain holds a Bachelor’s degree from NYU Stern School of Business and an MBA from Yale School of Management. As the Global Managing Director of Tenon Group, he drives the organization’s strategic growth, operational excellence, and market expansion. In addition to overseeing Tenon FM’s operations in the UK, he also leads a fintech company, bringing innovation and efficiency to financial services.
Anuj Rajain earned his Bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and an MBA from Yale School of Management. As the Global Chief Strategy Officer of Tenon Group, he spearheads innovation, business expansion, and strategic partnerships. He also leads Soteria, leveraging cutting-edge technology for security solutions, and manages Peregrine’s operations in Singapore, strengthening the company’s global presence in the security industry.
Major Manjit not only sent his sons to Yale but was also nominated as a Global Advisor to Yale School of Management in 2016.
A recognized leader in the security industry, Major Rajain has been honored with numerous awards, including:
● Fastest Growing Security Company Award (Peregrine, 2006) by SECURITY TODAY.
● CAPSI Security Entrepreneur Award (2008)
● Global Achievers Award (2016, Dubai)
● 100 Greatest Leaders of Asia Award (2018)
● CAPSI “Commander of the Frontline Warriors” Recognition (2020)
Beyond business, he is a Paul Harris Fellow and was an Assistant Governor for Rotary International, playing a pivotal role in India’s Polio Eradication Program and Literacy Mission. Under his CSR leadership, Tenon Group adopted a government school, ensuring 500+ underprivileged children receive quality education.
Additionally, Major Rajain has been a key industry voice, serving as Chairman of the Homeland Security Forum under the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) and engaging with CII, ASIS International, CAPSI, Co-Chair FICCI and OSAC.
A Legacy in Motion
From his days in the Indian Army to building an international business empire, Major Rajain’s journey is a story of determination, foresight, and unrelenting ambition. With the Tenon Group continuing to expand globally and RedBird Aviation shaping the next generation of pilots, his legacy of leadership and innovation continues to soar.
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SECURITY TODAY had the privilege of engaging in a thought-provoking conversation with Major Manjit Rajain, where he shared his insights in response to our questions. Here are his answers.
Major Rajain, congratulations on achieving the incredible milestone of 30 successful years with the Tenon Group—truly well deserved! SECURITY TODAY sincerely appreciates your continued support and friendship over the years and is grateful for the opportunity to formally interact with you once again.
Q: Coming from a service-oriented background as the son of a police officer and having served in the armed forces yourself, what inspired you to venture into entrepreneurship? What motivated you to take the leap, and what were the biggest challenges you encountered in the early years of Peregrine Guarding?
I never really set out to be an entrepreneur—it just happened. Growing up in a service-oriented family, with my father in the Indian Police Service and my own years in the Army, duty and discipline were second nature to me. After leaving the forces and spending some time in the police, I realized I wanted to build something of my own, something that would make a real impact.
The idea for Peregrine Guarding came from a simple observation—the private security industry in the mid-’90s was unorganized, unreliable, and lacked professionalism. I saw an opportunity to change that. But getting started was anything but easy. With a tiny office in Kapashera, barely any resources, and a handful of guards, I had to build everything from scratch. Clients were hesitant to trust a new player, and finding the right people who shared my vision was tough.
The biggest challenge? Earning trust. Security is a business built on reliability, and convincing companies to take a chance on us wasn’t easy. But I believed that if we delivered beyond expectations, word would spread. And it did. We worked around the clock, ensuring our guards were better trained, more disciplined, and more professional than anyone else in the market.
Looking back, those early struggles shaped everything we’ve built at Tenon Group. It wasn’t just about starting a company; it was about setting new standards and proving that security could be more than just manpower—it could be a professionally managed, technology-driven service.
Q: Do you remember the moment you landed your first big security contract? What were your emotions when the cash register rang for the first time, and how did you celebrate that milestone?
Absolutely, I remember it like it was yesterday. It was a small contract compared to what we handle today, but at that moment, it felt like the biggest deal in the world. That first contract wasn’t just about business—it was validation. It meant that someone believed in what we were building, that all the hard work, late nights, and relentless pursuit of excellence were finally paying off.
When the cash register rang for the first time, I felt a mix of excitement, relief, and determination. Excitement, because it was proof that we were on the right path. Relief, because, let’s be honest, starting a business is full of uncertainty. And determination, because I knew this was just the beginning—now we had to prove ourselves, deliver beyond expectations, and build something sustainable.
As for celebrating, I wish I could say there was a grand party, but back then, the focus was on the next step. I probably just sat back for a moment, took a deep breath, and then got right back to work. Success, after all, isn’t about one milestone—it’s about consistently moving forward, raising the bar, and never losing the hunger to do more.
Q: From a single security firm in Kapashera to a multinational group with operations in India, the UK, and Singapore—what have been the key strategic decisions that shaped the Tenon Group’s global expansion?
Looking back, Tenon Group’s journey—from a modest office in Kapashera to an international leader—has been driven by a series of bold, strategic decisions anchored in clear vision and a calculated appetite for risk.
One of the most pivotal choices was adopting a self-performance model from the very beginning. Rather than relying on subcontractors, we took full control of quality, efficiency, and service delivery. In an industry where outsourcing is the norm, this decision became a cornerstone of our credibility and set us apart.
Our acquisition strategy was another game-changer. Growth wasn’t just organic—we strategically acquired companies that strengthened our foothold in key markets. The acquisitions of O&G and Elite Services in the UK and Frontline Security in Singapore—now Peregrine Security Pte—weren’t simply about expanding our presence. They allowed us to absorb local market expertise, talent, and best practices, accelerating our global trajectory.
Technology and innovation have also been at the heart of our evolution. The launch of Soteria in 2014 wasn’t just about establishing an e-surveillance division—it was about redefining security. By reducing manpower dependency and enhancing operational efficiency, Soteria gave us a competitive edge in an increasingly tech-driven world.
We didn’t stop at guarding. Our focus on diversification and integration propelled us into new verticals. With Tenon FM delivering facility management solutions and Rotopower offering electromechanical services, we evolved into a comprehensive solutions provider—a one-stop partner for clients seeking seamless, multi-service delivery.
Equally crucial to our growth story has been professional management. Today, Tenon Group is steered by a team of seasoned leaders with deep industry expertise.
Brig. Rajan Oberoi (Vice Chairman) brings decades of experience in security and risk management, ensuring strong governance and strategic oversight. Under the leadership of Global CEO Sandeep Gupta, the company continues to drive operational excellence and sustainable growth. Siddharth Dahiya (CEO, Peregrine Guarding) leads the security business in India, leveraging his vast experience to enhance operational efficiency and client satisfaction. Rakesh Tripathi (CEO, Tenon FM) spearheads our facility management division, harnessing technology and innovation to create smart, sustainable workplaces.
With this dynamic leadership team at the helm, Tenon Group is not just prepared for the future—we are actively shaping it, positioning ourselves for sustained global growth.
Q: Your passion for aviation led you to obtain a private pilot’s license and later invest in RedBird Aviation, which quickly became a success—further showcasing your ability to build and lead thriving businesses. What excites you about the security market in India, and where do you see the industry heading in the next five years?
The security industry in India is at a fascinating turning point, much like aviation was when I first got involved. What excites me most is how rapidly it’s evolving from a traditional manpower-driven business to a technology-led, intelligence-driven industry. We’re no longer just talking about guards at gates; security today is about AI-powered surveillance, predictive analytics, remote monitoring, and integrated risk management. The shift is happening fast, and companies that embrace technology will lead the way.
Over the next five years, I see three major trends shaping the industry. First, technology-led security will become the norm, not an option. Businesses are already realizing that security isn’t just about physical presence—it’s about intelligence, automation, and real-time response. AI-based surveillance, command centers, and predictive threat detection will become essential. Second, consolidation and standardization will drive growth. The industry is still fragmented, but large, organized players are setting benchmarks for compliance and efficiency. Clients are moving away from unstructured, informal providers and choosing companies that offer integrated, outcome-based security models—something Tenon Group is already championing.
Just like in aviation, where precision and discipline are key, the future of security belongs to companies that innovate, integrate technology, and deliver real, measurable value. And I see Tenon Group right at the forefront of that transformation.
Q: Both your sons, Angad and Anuj, are now leading key verticals of the Tenon Group. What values have you instilled in them as a father and a business leader, and how do you see the next generation shaping the future of the company?
As a father and a business leader, the values I’ve instilled in Angad and Anuj are simple yet fundamental—integrity, resilience, and the ability to think long-term. From a young age, they saw the discipline and commitment it takes to build something meaningful. I’ve always believed that leadership isn’t about privilege; it’s about responsibility. They grew up watching me make tough decisions, take risks, and, most importantly, stand by my people.
In business, I’ve taught them that success isn’t just about growth; it’s about sustainability and impact. They understand that Tenon Group isn’t just a company—it’s a legacy built on trust. They’ve both had their own journeys, earning their education from top institutions and working in global markets before stepping into leadership roles. This exposure has given them a fresh, modern perspective, and I see them driving Tenon into the future with a strong emphasis on digital transformation, customer-centric solutions, and global expansion.
The next generation will shape the company by blending our core values with new-age thinking. What makes me proud is that they don’t just see Tenon as a business—they see it as a platform to create value, innovate, and make a real difference in the security and facility management industry. That, to me, is the true mark of leadership.
Q: In a 2023 interaction with SECURITY TODAY, you stated that while you began as a security company 28 years ago, you had since evolved into a technology-driven organization providing Security and FM services. With technology advancing rapidly, how do you perceive this transformation today?
Over the past few years, the transformation of Tenon Group into a technology-driven organization has accelerated beyond what I had envisioned in 2023. Security and FM services today are deeply integrated with AI, IoT, and data analytics, making them more proactive, efficient, and cost-effective. It’s no longer just about having a strong workforce—it’s about how we equip them with cutting-edge tools to enhance their performance and deliver superior outcomes.
This transformation is being led by a strong leadership team. Brig. Rajan Oberoi, with his deep expertise in security strategy, ensures we remain at the forefront of risk mitigation and operational excellence. Our Global CEO, Sandeep Gupta, is steering the company toward sustainable growth and financial robustness, making strategic decisions that align with our vision. Meanwhile, Angad and Anuj bring in a fresh, global perspective, driving innovation and expanding our technology capabilities.
Looking ahead, I see Tenon Group not just adapting to technological change but shaping it. We are investing in AI-driven command centers, smart surveillance, and automation solutions that redefine the way security and FM services are delivered. The industry will continue to evolve, but our focus remains the same—staying ahead, leading with technology, and delivering unmatched value to our clients worldwide.
Q: After 30 years in business, what do you consider your proudest achievement? And if you had to define the next big goal for yourself and the Tenon Group, what would it be?
When I look back at the past 30 years, my proudest achievement isn’t just the scale we’ve reached or the revenue we’ve generated—it’s the people. Starting with a handful of employees in a small office in Kapashera to now leading a workforce of nearly 95,000 across India, Germany, the UK, and Singapore, that journey is what truly gives me pride. We have built an organization that not only provides world-class security and facility management solutions but also creates livelihoods, fosters careers, and empowers individuals to grow. Seeing our employees, many of whom have been with us for decades, build their lives and families alongside Tenon’s growth is incredibly fulfilling.
As for the next big goal, I believe Tenon Group is just getting started. The security and FM industry is evolving rapidly with technology at its core, and our mission is to lead that transformation globally. Expanding deeper into AI-driven security solutions, enhancing smart facility management with automation, and scaling our operations into new international markets are key priorities. But beyond business, I want to ensure that the values we built this company on—discipline, trust, and excellence—continue to define Tenon long into the future.
At this stage, my focus is on strengthening our leadership team, empowering them to take bold decisions, and ensuring that Tenon remains at the forefront of innovation and service excellence. The journey isn’t over—it’s just entering its most exciting phase yet.
