DAVID SMITH
The 5280 Group
Oceanside,CA
31
years of professional experience
Experienced security Director/Manager with a degree from Rutgers University and extensive experience in law enforcement, including a three-year tenure with the FBI. Successfully managed security operations for over 500 live events, demonstrating expertise in crowd control and event safety. Key highlight includes providing security for Pope Francis during the 2015 papal visit. Recognized for strong communication skills and ability to work effectively under pressure.
Work History
Security Contractor
5 Months- Served as lead contractor for private Google Next 26 event at F1 Plaza in Las Vegas, NV.
- Acted as primary security liaison for Google production staff and venue security teams.
- Coordinated access points for secure arrival and departure of HVA TPU chips and Google executives.
- Managed K9 sweeps across all areas utilized by Google production during event.
- Positioned CSC and Apex security personnel to minimize disruptions during executive presentations.
- Oversaw CSC staff operations during guest arrivals and the screening process.
Dignitary Protection Specialist
2 Years 5 Months- Current EP Team Lead for U.S. Congressman Steven Horsford, NV, conducting risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in protective measures while escorting to various campaign events.
- Developed tailored security plans for clients, ensuring optimal protection against unique threats.
- Implemented access control measures to prevent unauthorized entry into restricted areas.
- Managed crowd control during large-scale events to maintain safety and order.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to address security concerns effectively.
- Assisted in developing emergency evacuation plans, enhancing preparedness for unforeseen situations.
- Served as confidential liaison between clients and authorities during crises, prioritizing safety.
- Coordinated with industry professionals to share knowledge and elevate standards of protection services.
Security Manager
5 Years 2 Months- Managed comprehensive event planning for large-scale festivals and events.
- Oversaw security operations at FIFA Fan Festival, ensuring safety for 15,000 attendees.
- Coordinated with local law enforcement to enhance emergency response protocols.
- Directed main stage and third-party security teams to maintain operational efficiency.
- Administered access control systems for authorized entry verification.
- Ensured team compliance with professionalism guidelines and security standards.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT/OPERATIONS MANAGER
1 Year 2 Months- Oversaw security operations for major conventions including Magic and Cosmo Prof at Las Vegas Convention Center and Mandalay Bay Casino with approximately 50,000 attendees each.
- Procured contracts with Venetian Casino Hotel, Lionsgate Movie Studio, BET Awards, MLB All Star 2025, and Music festivals in New York
- Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
- Interact with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Cultivate and strengthen lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
DIRECTOR OF HEALTH AND SAFETY
2 Years 8 Months- Implemented access control system for warehouse complex to enhance security measures.
- Participated in selection process for system integration firm to ensure optimal performance.
- Developed training and scheduling models for Gateway security personnel to improve efficiency.
- Established strong relationships with St. Louis County fire, police, and emergency agencies.
- Invited to join SLAC-SLO, collaborating with over 50 corporate security directors in St. Louis area.
PUBLIC SAFETY LIAISON/ SECURITY MANAGER
8 Years 11 Months- Established strong relationships with public safety officials and event security personnel for seamless operations.
- Oversaw security for major events, including performances by U2, Beyoncé, and Paul McCartney.
- Managed daily operations and event execution for Peach Music Festival, Camp Bisco, and Fourth of July celebrations.
- Coordinated security measures at festivals with 40,000 attendees following DHS/FEMA emergency standards.
- Hired and trained a security management team for Live Nation's $58 million renovation of the Metropolitan Opera House.
LICENSED PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR
8 Months- Managed criminal case assignments from Nevada Superior Court, interviewing suspects and victims in diverse offenses.
- Executed surveillance operations to locate key evidence crucial for court presentations.
TOUR SECURITY
4 Years 4 Months- Ensured crowd management and safety of band and crew during national tours.
- Advanced venue and hotel details while traveling to multiple cities.
- Collaborated with venue security executives for Phish's performances in New York City and Riviera Maya.
- Managed security operations for Phish's Labor Day weekend show at Dick's Sporting Goods Field.
- Oversaw Halloween shows at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, ensuring safety protocols.
- Facilitated four sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden, including New Year's Eve event.
- Interacted with venue staff to coordinate all security measures effectively.
- Supported tour logistics by maintaining clear communication with local security teams.
MUSIC FESTIVAL SECURITY MANAGER
4 Years 7 Months- Managed security teams for major music festivals, including Life is Beautiful and Rolling Loud.
- Oversaw crowd control, main stage operations, and artist transportation logistics.
- Coordinated security for international events such as Panic en la Playa and Holidaze.
- Directed cruise ship security operations for Holy Ship and Jam Cruise.
- Facilitated seamless artist movements across multiple festivals in various locations.
- Ensured safety protocols aligned with Live Nation standards for high-capacity events.
- Executed security measures for Pope Francis' inner compound during papal visit to Philadelphia.
- Escorted Pope Francis and College of Cardinals to altar during mass for one million attendees.
TOUR SECURITY
10 Months- Provided personal security for band members Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Mickey Hart, and Bill Kreutzmann during final Grateful Dead shows at Soldier Field before 90,000 fans.
- Advanced venue and hotel safety measures while traveling with Dead & Company.
- Executed personal security for John Mayer throughout tour, including all venues and social events.
- Coordinated with local public safety officials and venue security to enhance safety practices on show days.
POLICE DETECTIVE
17 Years 8 Months- Managed thousands of criminal investigations, including homicide, robbery, and assault cases.
- Led investigation of Magfoor Mansoor homicide, featured on 'High Stakes' episode of FBI Files.
- Executed search warrants and conducted electronic surveillance, resulting in multiple arrests.
- Testified frequently in federal court across Pennsylvania and New Jersey jurisdictions.
- Assigned to FBI Asian Criminal Enterprise Task Force targeting human trafficking and organized crime.
- Participated in 'Royal Charm,' an international operation involving suspects from multiple countries.
- Trained in crowd control for major Atlantic City events, including military air shows and pageants.
- Graduated from Reid School of Interview and Interrogation, enhancing investigative techniques.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
Skills
Executive protection
Risk assessment
Access control strategies
Crowd control
Emergency planning
Public Safety Liaison
Live Event management
Timeline
Security Contractor
Stratoscope
03.2026 - CurrentRead More
Dignitary Protection Specialist
The Simon Agency
03.2024 - CurrentRead More
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT/OPERATIONS MANAGER
United Service Companies
03.2024 - 05.2025Read More
Security Manager
The 5280 Group
06.2021 - CurrentRead More
DIRECTOR OF HEALTH AND SAFETY
Gateway Studios and Production Services
05.2021 - 01.2024Read More
LICENSED PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR
Global Reliance Investigations
08.2020 - 04.2021Read More
TOUR SECURITY
Phish
08.2015 - 12.2019Read More
MUSIC FESTIVAL SECURITY MANAGER
National Event Services
05.2015 - 12.2019Read More
TOUR SECURITY
Grateful Dead Fare Thee Well Tour/Dead & Company
05.2015 - 03.2016Read More
PUBLIC SAFETY LIAISON/ SECURITY MANAGER
LIVE NATION
06.2014 - 05.2023Read More
POLICE DETECTIVE
Atlantic City, New Jersey
01.1996 - 09.2013Read More
Rutgers University
Bachelor of Arts from Sociology
Read More