Q2 2025
Security staff work around the clock to ensure IGY Marinas remain safe and secure at all times. Here, we speak to Fanny Leveuf, one of the Video Surveillance Operators at the iconic IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes on the Côte d’Azur in the South of France.
What does your current job involve?
I am part of a team which manages security at the Vieux-Port marina through the IGY video surveillance system, but my role involves more than surveillance. I control access of vehicles and people, monitor screens and answer intercoms. I manually operate barriers and welcome owners, charterers and crew, especially during port office closing hours, and many more things.
What are the main challenges you face as a Video Surveillance Operator at one of the world’s most iconic marinas?
The Vieux-Port is right in the middle of Cannes. Clients can arrive by boat and walk into the city centre to shop or have dinner. It’s a privileged and unique location, but this brings security challenges because there are a lot of people passing by the marina.
Clients have to feel safe and there is a need to react quickly if there is a problem such as someone trying to enter the marina or board illegally, a fire at the port or a bad storm. In 2023, a storm wrecked a pontoon and I could see it all happening from the surveillance control room.
When there is an incident, there is a chain of command within the port. It may be necessary to call the fire brigade, the police or the port authority. We have a security strategy, and I have to apply procedures and protocols, and coordinate security patrol staff. Communication is very important.
Where did you grow up and what were your early ambitions?
I was born and grew up in Normandy and I arrived in the South of France in 2001. I was attracted by the weather but also my grandparents lived here, and I always wanted to come here. One of my first jobs was as a chef in a gastronomic restaurant. I later joined the perfumery Fragonard where I worked in various stores for ten years, specialising in displays and materials.
How did you get into security as profession?
I had a career reset and I felt security was a sector I belonged in somehow. At the time, they were looking for more women to work in security. I thought ‘why not me’ and my profile corresponded well. Then came the opportunity to join IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes.
What was your first role with IGY and how long have you been with us? 
I joined as a Video Surveillance Operator, and I have been here at Vieux-Port de Cannes for five years.
Describe the atmosphere at Vieux-Port de Cannes?
The atmosphere is very warm, pleasant and dynamic. There is a great feeling among the people here and it’s a lovely setting.
Have you always wanted to work in a port?
I’ve always been attracted to marine environments, and I have a background in prestige and luxury brands so IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes is a good fit for me. I am very proud of the work I do here. It’s so varied and no day is the same. I’m very happy working in this environment.
On a personal level, what are you most proud of?
My 15-year-old son, Arthur.
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime?
In my free time, I stay active by doing fitness and running, and I also participate in local races occasionally.
I also love hiking, and for quiet moments, I like reading and stretching.
If you had access to any yacht in the world for two weeks, where would you go and what would you do?
Miami or the Caribbean, or maybe Colombia or South Africa. There are so many places I’d love to visit!
What’s a lesser-known fact about you that would surprise your colleagues?
At the end of last year, I made olive oil from the olive trees in my garden.
