David Sullivan

Globally renowned ACRE brands, Vanderbilt and ComNet began to operate in unison, as part of a strategic move by their parent company to streamline and cement the international divisions of the business. Following on from the initial integration, David Sullivan, ACRE International President, has claimed that the strategic alignment is now well-positioned for a successful 2020 partnership. "No matter what experience I've had in the past with integrating businesses, you end up with a few bumps and challenges. Combining Vanderbilt and ComNet under one umbrella was no different. But now that we are through the learning curve, we're already starting to see better results," Sullivan states. Vanderbilt and ComNet partnership We're seeing better technical support, and are beginning to see a better understanding of the ComNet portfolio" David Sullivan, President of ACRE International, said “We're seeing better technical support, and are beginning to see a better understanding of the ComNet portfolio on the customer service side. Because of this, the ComNet customers are enjoying something they didn't have before, in-language customer service and technical support from our various offices around Europe.” David adds, “That's a significant advantage, and we've had a lot of customers come back and say that the supply and reliability of the supply has improved significantly.” Deepening of product portfolio In addition, ACRE has installed Iain Deuchars as the General Manager of the ComNet business, a move Sullivan states is already reaping positive effects. With 30 plus years' experience in the transmissions industry, Deuchars' knowledge and understanding of the market and the product portfolio on offer, has helped explicitly. The integration of both brands has also deepened each other's product portfolio, and this has seen more opportunities open up throughout the marketplace. Expansion in Middle East, India and Nordic regions Sullivan said, “In 2020, we're going to see more traction between the two sides of the business. We already have great opportunities that are developing in the Middle East where we are combining both the ComNet portfolio and our access control solutions.” He adds, “We're finding a lot of traction in India between both portfolios, and I think we're going to see it in the Nordic region as well. There are spots in our marketplace where we're seeing a lot of synergies associated with the Vanderbilt and ComNet working together.” Next phase of SPC wireless devices One of the big releases for Vanderbilt customers in 2020 is the release of the next phase of SPC wireless devices While the quarter has been a positive one, as President, Sullivan is always looking further down the line and strategizing where the company will be positioned at the end of the year and beyond. One of the big releases that Sullivan is appetizing for Vanderbilt customers in 2020 is the release of the next phase of SPC wireless devices. David said, "The essential thing for our customers right now is their interest in understanding where we are with our wireless sensors for our intrusion portfolio. It's been a phased release over the last two years, and the two critical elements to that portfolio are the PIR cam and the Wireless keypad.” New software releases and system upgrades He adds, “Those have been a little bit long in getting out, but they'll be coming out this year. I think that's going to change people's interest in our wireless portfolio radically. It's probably one of the most significant releases that we'll be having.” David concludes, “Clearly, we're going to be having a lot of different software releases and upgrades to the systems, but of the most significant, that's probably the one that people have been waiting for the most."

David Sullivan the President of ACRE International issued the following statement: As a global company with personnel stationed throughout the world, we are keenly aware of how the Coronavirus (COVID 19) is affecting people and business. For those who have been impacted directly by the Coronavirus, our hearts go out to you. We are closely monitoring the situation, making judgements and decisions daily with the rapidly changing environmental conditions. We have advised our staff to avoid travel at this time, and to conduct meetings remotely through alternative communication tools such as Skype. We know that this challenges normal business practice, however we feel that it is an appropriate precaution for both our employees and customers. We are following the guidance of our respective governments and health authorities and will ensure swift and diligent action in accordance with any regulation that is mandated. We have expanded our IT infrastructure to allow for all our employees to work from home if needed and expect that there will be little disruption to our regular service and support hours. We’ll be sure to update you if things change on our website, and other communication means. As of today, the 16th March 2020, all our suppliers have confirmed that they remain open for business. Subcomponent shortages are being addressed by sourcing from qualified alternate suppliers and alternate components. The majority of our stock levels are good as we hold a safety stock in our European warehouses. We are monitoring the situation daily and we will continue to provide regular updates as the situation evolves. We thank you for your continued loyalty. Your business is important to us, and we know that communication is critical during times such as these. We look forward to a quick end to this outbreak, and trust that the world will learn how to prevent such a pandemic from happening again.

Vanderbilt, a global provider of state-of-the-art security systems, announced that they will jointly attend this year’s IFSEC International with sister-company ComNet. The 2019 tradeshow takes place between June 18-20, at ExCeL London. In addition to their flagship products and prominence in open platforms and integrations, both companies, under the ACRE banner, will also highlight their ability to aid customers in every step of their security journey. “From the moment our customers begin doing business with us, we want to deliver exceptional security and transmission solutions that present absolute peace of mind,” explains Ross Wilks, Head of Marketing Communications at Vanderbilt International. Adding weight to this statement, Pauline O’Riordan, Head of Product Management at Vanderbilt, chimes in: “We pride ourselves in supporting clients through every step of their journey. As well as top quality products, this means value-added resources, clear communication and on time delivery. These are core Vanderbilt and ComNet characteristics and are the foundation of our drive to becoming the number one solutions provider in the markets we serve.” Access Control And Intrusion Detection Portfolio Two of the latest injections into their service roster are the new e-commerce webshop and LMS On top of Vanderbilt’s complete and award-winning access control and intrusion detection portfolio, containing products such as ACT Enterprise, ACT365, SPC, and SPC Connect, the company’s close relationship with sister-company ComNet means it also has access to an in-depth transmissions and connectivity portfolio. This allows it to easily and swiftly support customers with products and services ranging from hardened Ethernet, commercial Ethernet, extended Ethernet, wireless Ethernet, optical interfaces and power systems. Vanderbilt and ComNet’s drive to become all-round solution companies has seen them harness numerous tools to complement a buyer’s journey from start to finish. These added values include warehousing and distribution channels, in-country engineering, Technical and Sales Support teams, both online and offline orders, returns, and repairs, plus training support. webshop And Learning Management System Two of the latest injections into their service roster are the new e-commerce webshop and the Learning Management System (LMS). The webshop is helping optimize the goal to serve customers 24/7. Accessed through Vanderbilt’s main website, the webshop presents a simplified, intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate and use. How-to videos assist with any questions that may arise and an improved product hierarchy and centralized Asset Management System (AMS) ensure all support materials are relevant and up to date. The addition of the LMS follows a similar mantra, as it is designed to allow customers remote access to training courses The addition of the Learning Management System (LMS) follows a similar mantra, as it is designed to allow customers remote access to training courses and advanced learning options from anywhere, at any time. The platform includes quick-to-complete modules, quizzes and assessments, and downloadable notes, all equipped to allow customers instant access to resources about principal products in an instant. Supporting Customers’ Security Journey At IFSEC Further expanding on this thinking and direction from Vanderbilt and ComNet is David Sullivan, President of parent company ACRE International: “We look forward to showcasing our ability to account for and support each step of our customers’ security journey at IFSEC this year. We believe these are true value adds that pack a real punch for Vanderbilt and ComNet. “When we stay on top of industry trends, our customers stay on top of industry trends. We want to bring unbridled creativity to our market approach and share this knowledge, insight, and reward with our customers. We believe this is what can make us efficient and competitive in solving multiple customer pain points and being a true “one-stop” shop for all of our customers’ needs,” Sullivan concludes. IFSEC takes place in London between the 18th and 20th of June where Vanderbilt and ComNet will exhibit at Stand No. IF1520.

The three-day IFSEC International Conference and Expo was a sight to see as more than 27,000 attendees from around the globe descended on London's ExCeL to attend the event. Central to the show was the exhibit hall, where manufacturers across the industry demonstrated the products, services, and solutions designed to keep people safe and add more intelligence to comprehensive security plans. In a time where threats are becoming more diverse and complex, caused in part by rapidly developing technology, the tools, and knowledge required to combat attacks are becoming equally diverse. As a result, IFSEC itself is transforming into an integrated security event, bridging the gap between physical and cyber with innovative new products, education central to this mission, and the opportunity to share ideas and knowledge with fellow attendees. ACT Enterprise Access Control Solution Vanderbilt showcased the ability of its upcoming release of ACT Enterprise access control solution during the show As part of this new vision for IFSEC International, Vanderbilt showcased its wealth of knowledge and product innovation that encompasses the integrated approach to security alongside its sister company ComNet, demonstrating the power of connectivity and advanced security tools to meet the needs of today's enterprise organizations. Vanderbilt showcased the ability of its upcoming release of ACT Enterprise access control solution during the show, emphasizing the need for advanced wireless integrations and smartphone app functionality. The system gives users the power to access the network, receive notifications, and administer access rights - all from the palm of their hand. Vanderbilt's Executive Vice President - Global Sales David Sullivan sat down with IFSEC Global to discuss the company's developments, including the incorporation of video into access control and the ability of intrusion alarms to send push notifications directly to mobile applications on a user's smartphone. SourceSecurity met with Vanderbilt leaders to discuss the company's focus on integrations during the show, noting the critical integration between the SPC intrusion detection system and software from Milestone. Additionally, Vanderbilt's ACT Enterprise now integrates with ASSA ABLOY's Aperio wireless locking solution. 2018 IFSEC Global Security and Fire Influencer Vanderbilt's parent company, ACRE, was also on site to offer support for its brands during the show. ACRE CEO Joe Grillo was recognized during this year's event as a 2018 IFSEC Global Security and Fire Influencer in the Security Tech Leaders category for his ability to drive technological innovation and elevate the industry globally. While IFSEC is over, Vanderbilt continues to embody its mantra to be Ready for Any Challenge as customers look to the company to solve some of their most challenging security problems, building integrated, robust and scalable solutions that will serve them well for years to come. Till next year, IFSEC.

Vanderbilt enjoyed another successful showing at this year’s IFSEC event in London. Over the course of the three-day event, Vanderbilt showcased the company’s vast portfolio of access control, intrusion detection, and video management solutions. Solutions like ACT Enterprise, ACT365, SPC Connect, Vectis iX, and SPC Wireless devices were all on display for the over 30,000 visitors to the event to see. Commenting on new features in Vanderbilt products, Executive Vice President - Global Sales, David Sullivan said “We have incorporated video into our access control. And then of course in our intrusion alarms, we’re now doing push notifications to mobile applications on your phone.”

In the short video, Kim Loy, Director of Communications and Technology, David Sullivan, Executive Vice President of Global Sales, and Ron Virden, President of Vanderbilt International, discuss the culture and experience behind the winning team at Vanderbilt. “We make a practice of hiring a lot of new young people so that we can infiltrate the organization with fresh new ideas to compliment some of the tribal knowledge that we’ve had in the company for many years,” said Kim Loy, Director of Communications & Technology. Right Time To Join The Company We’re excited about the acquisition pipeline that we have right now and we’re looking forward to making a few strategic acquisitions in the next year" David Sullivan touches on the culture of empowerment at play in Vanderbilt, and the flexible measure of control that employees can enjoy in their position. “We want to make sure that decisions are made in the field, so our culture here does provide empowerment, and it gives a lot of autonomy at being able to work in your position,” said David Sullivan, Executive Vice President of Global Sales. Pointing toward the positive horizon at Vanderbilt, Ron Virden summarises why now is the right time to join in the company ranks. “We’ve got the research and backing to purchase additional companies that offer a variety of different technologies. We’re excited about the acquisition pipeline that we have right now and we’re looking forward to making a few strategic acquisitions in the next year. Now is the right time to join Vanderbilt,” commented Ron Virden, President of Vanderbilt International.

Strength in depth was the key message Vanderbilt was hoping to dictate at Intersec Dubai with the company showcasing their increasing range of high-quality security solutions during the three-day event. Find out what the Team had to say about the first major show of 2018: Sam Lord, Events Manager, Vanderbilt stated: “This was our first time exhibiting at Intersec, and the show was a tremendous international platform for us to highlight our products and solutions and interact with clients and existing customers. There was a good mixture of visitors from system integrators, installers, and end users from the Retail and Banking sectors, who matter to our business and our solutions fit well with. Essam and the team picked up several new opportunities/projects to go to work on and develop; there was significant interest in SPC and SiPass systems.” While many access control providers were attending the show, ACT365 stood out as being the only cloud-based Access Control solution" Cloud-based Access Control Solutions Mark Russen, Sales Manager, Vanderbilt commented: “We met many existing and potentially new customers from UEA and the Gulf region over the course of the three-day show. We had the chance to show them ACT365, and ACT for the first time, as well as the latest release of SPC Connect, SiPass, and Vectis cameras. While many access control providers were attending the show, ACT365 stood out as being the only cloud-based Access Control solution at the show. During the show, we received the positive news that the Dubai Police had approved SPC, which means SPC can now officially send alarm signals to the Dubai Police Monitoring Centre. The Video verification and push notification were also well received by the attendees; again, no other stand was showing such comprehensive communication solutions.” “This was my first visit to Intersec, and I found it a very interesting show. The inquiries received, and meetings held at the booth indicate that there are opportunities for Vanderbilt. By exhibiting at this event,” said Ross Wilks, Head of Communications, Vanderbilt. He further added, “we are not only enhancing our brand recognition with its attendees but also demonstrating our commitment and enthusiasm for providing security solutions to their problems through our dedicated team in this region.” Future Of Cloud Technology Ronan Naughton, Product Manager, Vanderbilt added; “Intersec Dubai was a great opportunity for Vanderbilt to be seen as a significant player in the MEA region and proved to be a great success. The stand attracted a diverse range of existing and potentially new customers from across the region, and as far broad as Bangladesh and Tanzania. There was keen interest from the banking sector, retail projects, and large residential complex developments. SiPass, SPC Connect and ACT 365 proved to be big hits. There was also a keen interest in the Magic and Seismic detectors where the customers were eager to know the intricate details about the product’s quality. Some very promising leads were generated, and the assembled audience very well received Essam Al Hamdam's presentation on the future of cloud technology.” Intersec Dubai is the only show where you simultaneously have access to customers from Asia, India, Africa, the Middle East and Europe"  Access To Global Customer Base “The Intersec conference is one of the largest in the world, and it is quite well attended. It is the only show where you simultaneously have access to customers from Asia, India, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. This year’s show did not disappoint. We had many quality meetings with significant customers, including the Siemens senior leadership for Asia/Middle East, and Saudi Arabia, where we were told that they are 100% supporters of Vanderbilt. It was a fantastic event, that was well done by the marketing and technical teams. Hats off to all, as I expect we will land some great business,” stated David Sullivan, Executive Vice President - Global Sales, Vanderbilt. SPC Connect Approved By SIRA Essam Al Hamdan, Regional Manager for MEA commented, “We received great news during Intersec. This was that SPC is now approved by SIRA – the Security Industry Regulatory Agency. This is a separated entity from the Dubai police. We had customers that were interested in our Seismic detectors for ATMs. We also got customers from Jordan. These focus on banking and they sell intrusion detection systems there. They were very interested in our SPC intrusion system as they got to see first-hand the system's many unique features.” Martin Hahn, Global Account Manager, Vanderbilt, commented: “We had a great presence at Intersec in Dubai and having our own booth for the first time added a lot of attraction for visitors. A great deal of good quality visitors came to our stand and we equally created leads from many System Integrators, coming mostly from the GGC countries - not least to mention also from Siemens. We are extremely well positioned with our portfolio encompassing all three product lines, plus seamless integration with various Management Systems. This continues to be key to the project focused business in the Gulf region. Finally, the great spirit among the Vanderbilt team contributed to our success at the show.”

The new partnership allows SDI to sell BluBØX’s suite of products and services to clients throughout the U.S SDI, a mission-critical systems integrator delivering intelligent IT solutions to ensure client safety, security and revenue generation, and BluBØX, a manufacturer of Security 4.0 physical security hardware and software, announce its partnership to introduce the next generation of security technology to the US market. This new partnership allows SDI to sell BluBØX’s suite of products and services to its clients in the government, transportation, education, and real estate industries throughout the US. Cloud-Based Solution For Security Management BluBØX provides a simple yet powerful web based hosted security software platform that unifies all major security applications and works with any browser on any device, anywhere, at anytime. With BluBØX there is nothing to install, it’s easy to use and easy to support. BluBØX runs on an open IP-based hardware platform using tried and true Authentic Mercury components and the industry’s first person reader that replaces cards and card readers altogether. The system is more convenient, more secure, easy to install and reliable. BluBØX’s cloud-based solutions significantly simplify the process of managing a security system. Customers do not need to have any dedicated PCs’, servers, storage or software at their facilities. Card readers, cameras and alarms connect to IP-based intelligent controllers that communicate directly with the BluBØX Cloud. With no up-front computer hardware purchases, less installation and less maintenance, cloud-based access control systems are proven to lower the initial and total cost of ownership for customers. “BluBØX is proud to welcome SDI as its first large dealer,” said Patrick Barry, BluBØX’s CEO. “The reputation of SDI, its team and CEO speaks volumes about the company and the people behind it. Their focus on innovation and quality is a perfect fit with our objective of delivering Security 4.0 cloud-based security solutions to end users.” “We particularly like their cloud-based solution and SaaS model. We see that as the future direction of our industry and are proud to be aligned with a leading tech provider", says David Sullivan, CEO at SDI Partnering With SDI “We chose SDI to become the first large reseller of BluBØX because we believe in their sophisticated IT capabilities as applied to the security space and in their demonstrated experience working with the core components of our product – Cloud, Mobile, Biometric, Unified, Open and Smart,” states Patrick deCavaignac, BluBØX’s COO. “The company is founded by a solid team that has a well-known track record of putting together quality high-end technical systems,” David Sullivan, CEO at SDI. Sullivan described BluBØX as a “natural fit” for SDI’s critical infrastructure-oriented solution set. “We particularly like their cloud-based solution and SaaS model. We see that as the future direction of our industry and are proud to be aligned with a leading tech provider.” Addressing the higher technical requirements of today’s advanced security systems, SDI offers a hybrid security and IT skill set that significantly reduces risks and optimizes performance when integrating security technology into enterprise environments. The firm’s IT engineers are adept in addressing typical CIO concerns about network utilisation, data management and overall risk mitigation related to the deployment of logical and physical security systems such as PSIM, access control, and enterprise digital video surveillance. SDI’s client portfolio includes some of the nation’s largest airports, commercial real estate portfolios and national banks and financial services organizations. SDI is capitalized by private equity firm LLR Partners, which has more than $2 billion under management, to fund its continued growth.