By: Eddie Sorrells

Chief Operating Officer/General Counsel, DSI Security Services 

ASIS International Europe 2023 from Risk to Resilience, was held in Rotterdam, Netherlands this year (March 21-23) and was surely one of the most significant events for security professionals in the region, and from other parts of our world.

If you are a European security professional looking to expand your knowledge, network with industry leaders, and discover the latest technologies and practices, then ASIS International Europe 2023 in Rotterdam was an experience worth having. Here are some reasons why:

  • Networking opportunities: ASIS International Europe 2023 presented an excellent opportunity to network with fellow professionals, including vendors, consultants, and experts from various sectors of the security industry. I had a chance to engage in discussions with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights into the latest trends and best practices- and compare them to what is currently evolving in the US.
  • Expert speakers: ASIS International Europe 2023 featured an impressive lineup of industry leaders, government officials, and security experts who shared their knowledge and experiences on various topics such as cybersecurity, physical security, crisis management, and risk assessment. These speakers provided insights on how to identify potential security risks, develop mitigation strategies, and create robust security plans. Speakers included Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl, Director General of DIGITALEUROPE, and Catherine De Bolle, Executive Director of Europol among many others.

I was invited to present during the conference on Security Career Pathways – Recruiting, Developing and Retaining Talent with Letitia Emeana, CPP, PSP, Erwin van de Weerd, and Brittany Galli. I shared my “security story” and engaged in a lively discussion on how we can do much better recruiting (and retaining) talent in the security industry. Verdict- we have a long way to go, but there are many dedicated professionals willing to work to make this a reality- The FUTURE is bright!

  • Exhibition: The event also featured an exhibition area where vendors showcased their latest security products, solutions, and services. This was an excellent opportunity to discover new technologies and assess their potential value.

In conclusion, attending ASIS International Europe 2023 in Rotterdam was an experience that was worth having for any security professional looking to expand their knowledge, network with industry leaders, discover new technologies, and develop new skills.