The Security Circle

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BIO

AMOTZ BRANDES

Amotz is the CEO of Chameleon Group, first established in 1992. The company’s reach and reputation has grown and now supports a wide range of clients seeking top rung security consulting and training across the globe.

Amotz  began his career in an Israeli Defense Forces Special Forces Reconnaissance Unit, leading recon and intelligence gathering teams on complex missions against Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations. 

After completing his military service, he moved to Los Angeles and joined the Security Department of the Israeli Consulate and El Al Airlines whose agents are trained to detect suspicious behavior and threats across its operations. As a profiler, Amotz carried out these duties for El Al and the consulate, protecting both assets and dignitaries. 

In 2002, he established Chameleon’s Training Department in the wake of 9/11 and has since trained private, public, and military sectors in Predictive Profiling, Security Questioning, Insider Threat, Threat, Risk & Vulnerability Assessments, HUMINT, Effective Security Management, Proactive Security, and more.  He designed and developed a slate of eLearning courses to provide Chameleon curriculum to clients in an online format.

Over two decades, Amotz has managed security projects for clients in a wide variety of sectors including aviation, mass transit, critical infrastructure, museums, schools, government agencies, manufacturing, retail, banking, and more. 

His diverse professional and personal background affords Amotz a unique ability to develop and deliver threat mitigation solutions that conform well to each unique client’s organizational culture and mission.

Amotz is a leading expert in aviation and transportation security, Predictive Profiling and counter terrorism and is sought out as a speaker, media expert and trainer worldwide.  

Amotz earned a B.A. Degree in International Development Studies from University of California at Los Angeles.  He is fluent in English and Hebrew.

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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Career

Paul joined the SIA in 2001 after a 33-year career first in HM Armed Forces and then in the Police Service.

Paul retired from policing in 2020 as Assistant Chief Constable (Specialist Policing Services) for Bedfordshire Police and the Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire constabularies, with responsibility for major crime, armed policing, counter-terrorism, and specialist policing services.

Paul was the National Policing Chiefs Council (NPCC) lead for the strategic investigation of complex, sensitive, and serious crime. In this role he advised on policy, mentoring, and developing executive senior law enforcement leaders and senior detectives.

Paul has been a detective at every rank and has served previously with Sussex Police, National Crime Squad, and Cambridgeshire Constabulary, having led several high-profile investigations on a national and international scale.

Paul was the Gold Commander for the tri-force response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with responsibility for all collaborated services across Bedfordshire Police and the Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire constabularies.

Paul continues to provide support across UK law enforcement as a College of Policing associate and advisor. This includes leading on sensitive national reviews on behalf of the NPCC.

Since joining the SIA as Executive Director in 2001, Paul has sought to transform the Inspection & Enforcement Directorate, putting public protection at the heart of all activity, through effective strategic partnerships, proactive engagement and increased operational impact across the UK Private Security Industry.

Paul led on the SIA response to the Manchester Arena Inquiry Recommendations, working with industry and Home Office to provide an informed SIA position which fully considered views of industry and further enhanced public safety (business licensing/removing the in-house exemption). This is currently subject of a fresh review by the Home Office.

Paul has provided evidence at the Home Affairs Select Committee on ‘Spiking’ alongside other national experts and meeting the safeguarding minister (Jess Phillips) with other key stakeholders to support enhanced public protection activity across this key area. He continues to represent the SIA at national level with key strategic partners.

Since 2024 Paul has led the SIA response to tackling ‘Labour Exploitation’ called Operation Empower working with HMRC and key stakeholders from across the UK private security to raise awareness and tackle this dreadful crime which impacts on some many people.

Paul is also the strategic lead for Operation Benchmark, the SIA response to tackling training malpractice, fraud and criminality, also working with Ofqual and Awarding Organisations to raise awareness and seek to reduce the opportunity to undermine public safety in this critical area

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-fullwood/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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“From the drop zone to the boardroom — Matt Hill reveals how hard landings and soldier grit forge stronger, smarter security leaders.”
  

BIO

Matt Hill is a former Parachute Regiment Officer, Farmer, Martial Artist, and teacher of Systema — the natural movement based Russian Martial art blending health and real work self defence skills. From the Systema Academy in Wiltshire he has taught thousands of students, blending martial arts with timeless health practices and practical skills for everyday life.

Beyond the Academy, Matt leads Jungle Expeditions around the Globe and international seminars, guiding groups through transformative experiences in some of the world’s most demanding environments. As a farmer he runs Montecello Farm with his family, where he integrates sustainable land management with a vision of creating a place of healing, growth, and community.

Matt is the author of three books on Systema with a fourth in progress. He tries to live fully, share generously, and help others discover strength, calm, and freedom in both body and spirit.

www.matthill.co.uk

[email protected]

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Watch a short video of the Systema club here

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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"In this Security Circle episode, former police officer and wellness advocate April Chavez shares her journey from frontline policing to championing resilience, mental health, and self-improvement. Drawing on real-life experiences, April reveals how trauma impacts the mind and body, the power of self-awareness, and why changing yourself can transform the world around you. Her insights blend science, spirituality, and practical tools for living a wellness-driven life."

BIO

April Chavez is a captivating public speaker, former police officer, and a mother of three miracle daughters. Diagnosed with Lupus at the tender age of fifteen, she has been a symbol of resilience and an advocate for comprehensive wellness, encompassing spiritual, intellectual, and physical aspects.

Her investigative nature and desire to protect and nurture human life led her to a fulfilling career in law enforcement. This experience further opened her eyes to the power of lifestyle choices in influencing overall well-being. She observed how thoughts, feelings, and patterns of events and emotions associated with disease flare-ups profoundly impact health.

In January 2022, she transitioned into broadcasting and public speaking, creating The Wellness Driven Life Show. Here, she effectively guides people toward total wellness by interviewing the world's greatest innovators.

As a performance coach for Driven Livin' LLC, April uses neuroplasticity principles and relaxation techniques to help clients create high-performance habits. Her deep dive into the spiritual, intellectual, and physical aspects of our being further enriches her coaching methodology, making her a unique figure in the wellness industry.

In her personal life, her supportive husband, Manlee, brings laughter and growth into their relationship, enriching her life. They constantly explore new horizons together, always ready for a dance party. April Chavez's journey is a testament to turning adversity into opportunity—a beacon of inspiration for those seeking a wellness-driven life.

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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BIO

Darren Carter – Vice Chair, ASIS UK Chapter 208 | Director of Security, Luxury Hospitality

Darren Carter is a highly respected security leader whose career spans over three decades across military, corporate, and luxury hospitality sectors. Beginning his professional journey in the Royal Navy, Darren developed a foundation of discipline, resilience, and operational excellence during eight years of service, including specialist training in air traffic control and maritime operations.

Transitioning to the private sector, Darren applied his skills to corporate security before moving into the luxury hospitality industry, where he has spent nearly 20 years safeguarding some of London’s most prestigious hotels. Known for his Security Through Service philosophy, he integrates discreet risk management with exceptional guest experience, protecting high-profile clientele including heads of state, royalty, and global icons.

As Vice Chair of ASIS UK Chapter 208, Darren is deeply committed to professional development, networking, and mentoring within the security community. His voluntary leadership reflects his belief in giving back to the industry and advancing its reputation for professionalism and integrity.

Darren’s unique journey — from navigating warships to managing the complexities of luxury hotels — has made him a sought-after voice on risk, leadership, and the evolving role of security in high-end environments.

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-carter-cpp-msyi-f-isrm-16a4278/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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🔐 Top 5 Things This Podcast Unpacks

1. 🚩 The Rise of Fake Identities in Remote Hiring
    Nation-state actors — particularly from North Korea — are using stolen or fabricated identities to secure legitimate remote IT roles inside Western organisations, bypassing traditional recruitment filters.
2. 🎭 Deepfakes and Digital Deception
    From AI-generated avatars to fake GitHub profiles and forged documentation, adversaries are creating sophisticated personas that fool even seasoned HR professionals and background checkers.
3. 💼 How Insider Threats Start at the Interview
    The episode explores how the threat doesn’t walk through your front door anymore — it logs in from halfway across the world. Hiring is now a critical attack vector.
4. 🛑 Why Zero Trust Must Extend Beyond Networks
    It’s not just about access controls or segmentation — zero trust thinking needs to be embedded in people processes too, especially during recruitment and onboarding.
5. 🎯 Real-World Case Studies of High-Stakes Infiltration
    Nick shares real examples where threat actors embedded themselves in organisations, stole cryptocurrency, accessed sensitive code, and even touched on national defense data — all under the guise of being a “remote developer.”

NISOS.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gicinto/

BIO

Executive security leader and veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Tesla, and Uber as an insider threat, intelligence and security specialist. Successfully developed Uber, Tesla, and Chainlink Labs’ first global intelligence collections, investigations, and insider threat programs from the ground up.

Now, CISO at William Jewell College and Professor of Practice in Cybersecurity, a new major at WJC.

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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"I spent 10 years living in the shadows — now I stand in the light to lead, and to show others it’s possible."

— Hayley Elvins on the journey from covert roles to visible leadership

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Security Circle, we sit down with Hayley Elvins — Managing Director of Sloan Risk Group, Director at the Security Institute, and former British intelligence professional. From cadets and covert ops to high-level leadership, Hayley shares her remarkable journey through the world of protection, risk, and intelligence. She reflects on life in the shadows, navigating male-dominated environments, neurodivergence, and how she transitioned from operational secrecy to boardroom strategy. This is an honest, empowering conversation about courage, career pivots, and why saying "yes" to fear can lead to transformation.

BIO

Hayley Elvins, a Chartered Security Professional with a distinguished background in Royal Military Police, Close Protection and Government Intelligence.

Hayley is the founder of Sloane Risk Group, a specialist consultancy delivering covert security programs, security strategy development, executive protection, security and surveillance awareness training, and physical penetration testing for both corporate and ultra-high-net-worth clients. Her operational career began at the age of 21 with the Royal Military Police, quickly advancing to the elite Close Protection Unit, with deployments in Northern Ireland and Bosnia. She later served for a decade as an operational officer in counter-espionage and counter-terrorism within a UK government department. Hayley is recognised as a leader in physical penetration testing, designing complex, large-scale simulations to test the effectiveness of corporate security systems. 

As one of just 300 Chartered Security Professionals globally — and one of only 16 women to hold the title — Hayley represents the highest standard of competence and integrity in the field. She serves as a Fellow and Board Member of the Security Institute, and she is the sponsoring director for the AI-NEST and Frontline Special Interest Groups. She is currently assisting with a Cabinet Office-backed initiative to develop a professional register for physical penetration testers.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayleyelvinscsyp/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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"It wasn’t just about drugs — it was about removing violence from communities. That’s when you knew you were really doing good."

– Christopher Macolini

BIO

Christopher T. Macolini is a recognized expert in investigations and security throughout Latin America, bringing nearly three decades of combined law enforcement and private-sector experience in the region.

For the past 23 years, he has been a Partner at MIC Worldwide, a full-service investigative and security consultancy specializing in intellectual property investigations and broader corporate risk solutions. Previously, Chris led Microsoft’s Anti-Counterfeit Investigations in Latin America, overseeing complex enforcement operations across multiple jurisdictions.

Earlier in his career, Chris served 15 years with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, primarily in overseas assignments, where he gained extensive experience managing sensitive investigations and security initiatives.

In addition to his investigative work, Chris is an accomplished author, with several published books and screenplays to his credit.

https://christophermacolini.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-macolini-b7ba143/

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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Summary

🎙️ Podcast Bio Summary – Episode 133: Mac Segal

In this episode of The Security Circle, Yolanda is joined by Mac Segal, Founder and CEO of AHNA Group, for an unfiltered look at the world of executive protection. From South Africa to Israel to the corporate frontlines, Mac shares the lessons behind building a global security business based on trust, agility, and integrity.

Together, they dive into:

• Why trust is earned through consistency, not theatrics
• The myth of the "protector" and what the job really involves
• How the EP industry gets in its own way — and how to fix it
• Crisis response, last-minute problem solving, and high-stakes logistics
• The value of being calm, competent, and quietly excellent
• What young professionals get wrong (and what they need to hear)

This is the real deal — no bravado, no BS, just hard truths and smarter thinking in the world of protection.

BIO

Mac's company, AHNA Group is the culmination of over 30 years of Executive Protection,operations, training and consulting experience in the Security Industry. Specializing in Executive Protection and Security Consulting for corporate clients, Mac and AHNA Group bring real world knowledge, experience and expertise to all facets of their performance.

As a fixed asset Subject Matter Expert, Mac conducts security assessments and designs security master plans as well as routine and emergency procedures for business facilities, hotels and critical infrastructure the world over. Working extensively with Fortune 500 companies and UHNWI worldwide he possesses and in depth understanding of the challenges facing businesses and infrastructure in today's world. Mac has published many articles on hotel and general security and is a regular speaker at security conferences the world over as well as SME to governments, major television and print news outlets.

Mac leads training programs in Covert Executive Protection, Surveillance Detection, Hotel Security, Travel Security Awareness, Emergency Response Procedures and other topics. Mac has taught, non-security employees, managers, security professionals, government units and C suite executives as well as corporate employees

Born in South Africa, Mac has served in two militaries as well as government service, living in Africa, Europe, USA and the Middle East whilst operating around the globe. This facilitates him with an excellent multi-cultural understanding which allows him to provide tailor-made, relevant and practical security and safety solutions.

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers

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Nicky is an international hostage and crisis negotiator turned world renowned trainer and speaker.

She spent 31 years as a Metropolitan police officer and the last 10 of those years as an international hostage and crisis negotiator.

Nicky worked on the elite New Scotland Yard Hostage and Crisis Negotiation Unit. She has travelled the world teaching negotiation and working with Her Majesty's Government on international operations and had the privilege of talking to hundreds of people in crisis. 

Nicky spent many years as the Director of UK Training of the National Hostage and Crisis Negotiation Course. She was the first female to be posted to this role and became responsible for designing and training police officers across the UK to deal with life and death situations from suicide intervention to crime in action (kidnaps)

On retiring from the police Nicky purchased her local garage, converted the car showroom into a coffee shop and gym keeping the garage workshop, creating a community hub. 

She has her own consultancy/training business specialising in communication and negotiation.

Over the years Nicky learned the skills to create a system of building trust quickly in very difficult circumstances.

Her mission is to share those lessons she learnt as a negotiator to help others improve their communication /negotiation skills and ultimately their relationships in life and work. She has worked with large organisations including Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, Smith – Nephew, NHS, Police Now, educational establishments including College of Policing, Brunel University and Southampton University and other organisations including working with Head Teachers associations and speaking at GP conferences.

In the 2022 Queen’s New Year’s Honours List, she was awarded the British Empire Medal for “meritorious service to the community during the pandemic”.

She is the author of “Crisis – true stories from my life as a hostage negotiator” published by HQ HarperCollins and a best seller on Amazon and has appeared on radio and TV as an expert in negotiation and communication including BBC Radio 4s Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 3 Counties, Crimewatch, Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Own, Daily Mail, 

Nicky lives with her partner, step daughter, 8 goats and 4 dogs. In her own words “life is never boring”. 

Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers