Event Security Planning at Venues – how to ensure a holistic approach.

Highly regarded as a specialist within the Convention, Exhibition and Live event sectors, Eddie has been involved in the Security, Medical and Emergency Management planning to some of the largest conferences and events within Australia such as APEC, ASEAN, Sydney International Boat Show and World Youth Day to name a few.

With over 25 years’ experience, Eddie has been involved in the development of Security and Emergency/Crisis Management frameworks for multi-national companies which has lead to invitations as a guest speaker to security, counter-terrorism and crisis management conferences within Australia, Singapore and London.

Eddie is the current Chairperson of the Venue Safety & Security Exchange Conference (VSX) Australia’s premier event safety & security gathering. In addition, he is also an alumni of Swinburne University of Technology with postgraduate qualifications in Emergency and Disaster Management, an Accredited Venue Manager (AVM) through the Venue Management Association (VMA), and a member of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM).

Chris is a security, resilience and risk specialist with a particular focus on stadia and venue planning, security operations, emergency planning and response underpinned with a sound risk management approach.

He has worked with a vast range of sporting bodies and teams in Australia and internationally including Australian Football League (AFL), Cricket Australia, National Hockey League (NHL), LA Kings, Manchester United and Arsenal, to name a few.

Prior to joining Sheridan Consulting Group, Chris led the security function at the Australian Football League (AFL)  for almost four years where he managed the national emergency planning and response, protective security of AFL staff, club personnel, players, officials and spectators. He was also responsible for securing and emergency planning relating to assets and infrastructure under the AFL’s control, including AFL House and both ‘business as usual’ and major events held at Marvel Stadium.

Chris has established stakeholder relations with law enforcement and intelligence agencies nationally and jurisdictionally.

Importantly, he also has working knowledge of several major stadiums and venues across Australia, providing understanding of the event day operating procedures at the venue, working closely with the Security and Operations Teams relating to match days and high profile events.

Backed by 10 years of service to the community with Victoria Police, where he received regional commendations for his dedication, leadership and initiative displayed during his successful investigative tenure as a Senior Detective.