Former diplomat plans expansion of security and crisis management firm

A former diplomat, security and intelligence expert has plans to expand his risk and crisis management consultancy firm focussed on reducing the risk for businesses across the globe.

With 30 years’ specialist experience, Andy Davis launched Trident Manor Ltd in 2013 to provide advice, guidance and expertise to UK and international organisations, helping them identify and manage threats, risks and vulnerabilities when operating in hostile environments.

Originally from County Durham, Andy has worked as a diplomat in some of the most difficult operational areas globally such as Uganda, Colombia, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

He said: “As with many involved within the security and risk management sector, I have a military and police background; primarily in intelligence and investigations.

“As a diplomat, I had a specialist security role that protected our people, property and information; as well as enabling cross governmental operations.”

His work involved protection and security for diplomats and high-profile visitors of which five former Prime Ministers and members of the Royal Family were some.

Andy left the Government and entered the private sector as deputy and then head of security for a multi-billion-dollar organisation, established to develop the tourism and cultural sector within Abu Dhabi.

An opportunity presented itself for Andy to return to his native North East in 2013 and set up his own business. Recognising that his work was going to be internationally focussed, Andy approached the Department for International Trade for ongoing advice and support.

He said: “I approached the team at DIT before I even had a meeting with my bank manager, and they have been with me throughout this journey.

“It’s been six years since we launched and the support given by the whole DIT team has been excellent, whether it’s been advice, guidance or just acting as a sounding board for ideas, they have been brilliant.

“It is great knowing that I can pick the phone up and speak with somebody who understands the journey that we have been on and have been a constant part of our success.”

Andy’s company, Trident Manor, has a small team based in Darlington and has plans to increase its headcount over the next three to four months due to the continued rise in demand for its services.

In addition, the company also works with over 15 specialist international consultants and a pool of over 50 associate consultants, all of whom enable it to have a truly global reach.

Andy added: “Gone are the days when you have to be London-based to deliver specialist security services. Trident Manor is and will remain a North East based business serving regional, national and international organisations operating overseas.

“As we continue to grow it will bring employment and recognition of the specialist skills and capabilities that exist within the region.”