The CONSEC - ASC Annual Conference was opened by Gary Thomas, ASC Chair, and Bill Butler who was sadly chairing his last CONSEC. Gary took the opportunity to thank him for his support over the years and wish him well in the future.
Gary and Bill
Bill introduced the team of enthusiastic and expert speakers from Sibylline Ltd who led a panel discussion about Global Threats and forecasted what businesses can expect over the next 12 months. This was an incredibly popular input, with many questions from the audience, and luckily, we were able to facilitate the continuation of the conversations by inviting them to our November business group meeting.
Sibylline Panel
Stuart Osborne then took over with his reminder about the importance of Security Governance followed by Philip Grindell who shared his experience and knowledge to help increase understanding about how to prioritise intelligence relating to fixated persons.
Stuart Osborne
Philip Grindell
Next up the audience was entranced as they heard from a speaker from the National Cyber Security Centre who left us all with lots to think about, with a presentation about the fast-developing world of GenAi. In an era where fake news spreads like wildfire, it is crucial for security professionals to understand how to separate fact from fiction. The audience heard about strategies and tools that can be employed to combat disinformation, providing valuable insights and practical solutions.
Last up before lunch was our sponsor Jason Piggott, from Dallmeier Electronic who paid tribute to Dieter Dallmeier, who sadly is no longer with us, but built the Dallmeier organisation and continues to be an inspiration to many.
Lunch time was an opportunity, to chat with old friends, meet new friends, and enjoy finding out about the technology on display by the exhibitors.
Post lunch, Jayne King. Chair of The Security Commonwealth, (SyCom), talked about the changes that are happening in SyCom. SyCom is the umbrella organisation of independent membership bodies across the security industry. It provides a forum to consult and cooperate in the common interest and in the promotion of professionalism, good practice and information sharing to enhance UK security.
Jayne King
Next up was Robert Hall who gave valuable input on the recently published Government Risk Register.
Following Robert the audience had a chance to hear first hand from Toby Williamson, Clerk to The Fishmongers' Livery Company about the aftermath of the terrorist attack at Fishmongers Hall in 2019. The aftermath of terrorism presents unique legal challenges, Understanding the legal landscape is essential for security professionals who play a critical role in ensuring the safety of individuals and organisations.
Toby Williamson
In May 2017, the devastating terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena shook the world and left an indelible mark on the city and its residents. In the aftermath of this tragic event, the Manchester Arena Inquiry was established to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and provide recommendations for future improvements in security measures. Additionally, Martyn's Law, named in memory of Martyn Hett, a victim of the attack, aims to enhance security at public venues across the UK. The final speakers for the day, Paul Greaney KC, Counsel to the Manchester Arena Inquiry, and Shaun Hipgrave, Director Protect & Prepare at the Home Office's Homeland Security Group, reflected on the findings of the inquiry and provided an update on the progress of Martyn's Law.
Shaun Hipgrave
As the day drew to a close, the Board reflected on what a great day it had been and started making plans for CONSEC 2024. The event will celebrate its 30th anniversary and promises to be the best one yet. Stay tuned for more details!