Experience, Expertise and Unmatched Commitment to Security

Dan, with 23 years of military service, including multiple deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Middle East, brings exceptional leadership and operational expertise to AEC Protection. His career highlights include escorting VIPs and high-ranking officers in hostile environments, mastering close protection and anti-surveillance techniques. Dan also played a vital role in training Chinook Force crews, delivering comprehensive instruction in SERE, battlefield first aid, and patrolling. Now SIA-qualified in Close Protection, CCTV Operations, and FREC3, Dan combines his extensive experience with a focus on supporting AEC’s training programmes and operational excellence. Having trained with AEC himself, Dan is committed to ensuring the team and future security professionals are equipped with the skills and confidence to excel.

Tom brings a wealth of expertise from a 15-year career in the Royal Marines, where he served as a sniper and with the Royal Marines Police Troop. He later became an instructor with the Royal Military Police Close Protection Unit, using his extensive knowledge and experience to train others in advanced protection skills. Now serving as a reservist with the Royal Military Police, Tom continues to apply his highly specialised skillset to deliver Close Protection courses, with a focus on control and restraint techniques grounded in real-world application.

Helen brings 24 years of experience as a Police Officer with Hampshire Constabulary, specialising in Search and Rescue, Counter-Terrorism, and Disaster Victim Identification, including delivering CBRN training alongside SO15 Counter-Terrorism Command. Now a First Aid Trainer with AEC Protection, Helen draws on her policing background and her current role as a Health Care Assistant in a hospice to provide practical, high-quality training. She also serves as a Team Leader for the PMOA team at the Ageas Bowl during International Cricket Fixtures, supported by her experience with the ECB during the 2017 Women’s Cricket World Cup.

Bo brings over 25 years of expertise from the Royal Air Force, Hampshire Constabulary, and private security. A former Specialist Firearms Officer and Operational Firearms Commander, Bo has extensive experience in Counter-Terrorism, VIP protection, and high-threat operations, including armed anti-piracy missions off East Africa. He has also deployed in Close Protection roles across the UK and Europe, safeguarding CEOs, celebrities, and MPs. Now retired from the police, Bo shares his vast knowledge as a security trainer, delivering SIA licence-linked qualifications for Door Supervisor and Close Protection courses at AEC Protection Training.

Chloe is the friendly face of AEC Protection, managing all administrative needs with efficiency and professionalism. Having joined the team as an apprentice, Chloe quickly proved her exceptional capabilities and was offered a full-time role due to her outstanding performance. She plays a pivotal part in the smooth running of day-to-day operations, supporting the team and clients alike with her organised and approachable nature. Chloe’s commitment to excellence and her proactive approach make her an invaluable member of the AEC team.

Lizzie brings a wealth of experience from her time as a regular Royal Military Police Officer in the British Army, a role she continues as an active reservist. As AEC Protection’s Recruitment and Vetting Officer, Lizzie is passionate about identifying and onboarding skilled and dependable professionals, ensuring the team meets the highest standards of integrity and dedication. Alongside her recruitment responsibilities, Lizzie plays a key role in managing deployments at large fixtures, balancing her commitments at AEC with her service in the Armed Forces

Jordan joined AEC Protection in 2022, contributing to various events and operational deployments before being promoted to Training Support Officer later that year. Qualified with a Level 3 Award in Education & Training and a Level 3 Award for Deliverers of Physical Intervention & Conflict Management, Jordan delivers Security Officer, Door Supervisor, and CCTV Training Courses. As a skilled First Aid Trainer, he leverages his extensive front-line experience as an Ambulance Service First Responder to provide high-quality medical training.

Gary, with over 15 years of experience in the private security industry, brings practical expertise from roles in Retail Loss Prevention, Mobile Response, Crown Courts, and Door Supervision. Known for his engaging teaching style, Gary combines real-world anecdotes with classroom learning, enabling students to apply their knowledge to industry scenarios. A qualified CCTV Operator, Gary enhances AEC’s capabilities by effectively monitoring incidents and planning proportionate responses. Since earning his Level 3 Award in Education & Training in 2021, he has delivered vocational training for Emergency First Aiders, Security Officers, Door Supervisors, and CCTV Operators, supporting both learners and internal staff development.

Sophie has over 8 years of experience in the private security industry, with a varied background that includes running event controls for major sporting fixtures and music festivals. She has served as an Events Manager at numerous large-scale events and has extensive operational expertise, particularly in high-risk and response roles. Sophie’s proven ability to manage complex operations makes her a key leader in ensuring the success and safety of high-profile events.

Gary, a former Senior Police Officer with 30 years of distinguished service, is a recognised expert in Counter Terrorist Security and Event Management, with extensive experience in managing major events such as the Isle of Wight Festival, football operations at Southampton F.C., and political conferences. A qualified Level 3 Drugs Detection and Level 4 Explosives Detection Dog Handler, Gary also specialises in risk assessments and crowd dynamics. As AEC Protection’s Lead Security Consultant, he oversees security arrangements for high-profile events and international cricket teams, providing expert planning and operational support.

Aidan is a serving Royal Military Police Officer in the specialist Close Protection Unit of the British Armed Forces (Reserve) with over 16 years of experience, founded AEC Protection in 2014 to deliver professional security services across the South of England. Aidan has instructed at the Royal Military Police Close Protection Unit, sharing his expertise in advanced protection skills. His extensive background includes deployments in Afghanistan, expertise in Royal Military Police Close Protection, and diverse private security operations, from safeguarding luxury boutiques in London to managing large-scale events and stadium security. A qualified Trainer, Assessor, and IQA for SIA Security and First Aid, Aidan is also a Member of The Association of British Investigators and a certified Security Dog Handler, making him a recognised expert in the industry.