Tormod Ree

Ava, a unified security company, announces the launch of Ava Aware Cloud. This video security solution offers the simplicity and flexibility of a cloud platform while providing the same intelligent, proactive security, and AI capabilities of Ava’s on-premises and hybrid solutions. For the first time, organizations of any size can leverage Ava’s powerful machine learning and advanced analytics to achieve proactive security. “Despite the industry’s promise of simple, intelligent video security, most organizations and companies still struggle with data overload, operational ineffectiveness, and the complexity of deployment and use. Ava Aware Cloud changes all of this. Now, organizations of any size can reap all of the benefits of our on-premises solution, such as improved operator efficiency and reduced investigation time while also getting the cloud’s game-changing advantages.”, Tormod Ree, CEO, Ava. Smart video security Ava Aware Cloud can be up and running in 10 minutes. One can simply plug in the cameras and go since there is no on-premise infrastructure and all settings are automatically configured. The cloud solution enables web and mobile access from anywhere by extending access from the browser to the Ava Aware mobile app on Android and iOS. Ava Cloud Cameras have built-in video/audio analytics and on-device storage. The solution is secure from the ground up with end-to-end encryption, factory-installed certificates, and automatic updates. Without the need for on-premise hardware, the licensing model is straightforward; simply choose camera type, resolution, and days of retention. Scaling the deployment from a few cameras to a fleet of devices is also effortless, without the need for servers. “Regardless of industry, efficiency is such an important part of keeping organizations and companies secure and protected. Ava Aware Cloud is a perfect path to simplicity and scalability, while smaller organizations with fewer resources and smaller deployments can still enjoy a full, proven security solution”, commented Kohler Brandon, VP Sales & Marketing, USA Security. Ava Aware VMS Ava Aware Cloud’s camera analytics enables security pros to find events and objects faster It offers the same security and operational benefits as the Ava Aware video management system on-premise solution. Ava Aware Cloud’s camera analytics enables security pros to find events and objects faster and security organizations to be more proactive, keeping threats from becoming incidents. On-camera analytics include object detection for people and vehicles, color and gender classification, activity level, and sound analytics for events such as glass breaking or other loud noises. Harnessing these powerful analytics also provides business-relevant data. Organizations can do more with video security, such as real-time counting of people and vehicles, usage statistics, or social distancing measures, with APIs and webhooks for integrations. The Ava cloud video surveillance solution allows organizations to: Get started in minutes, stay up to date, and always secure. Be proactive and prevent incidents from happening with AI-powered solutions. Gain advanced insights and intelligence for their business. To learn more about Ava Aware Cloud and book a demo, attend GSX+2020 Online between September 21-25.

Ava, a unified security company, has announced the completion of the merger between Jazz Networks, renowned cyber security insider threat detection and response firm and Vaion, an end-to-end video security solutions provider. Ava is now uniquely positioned to deliver unified cyber and physical security solutions to organizations worldwide. Tormod Ree, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ava Security, said “The only way to protect against hybrid cyber and physical security threats is to have a solution that can connect the dots across both domains. In April 2020, we announced the company’s vision and over the past five months, we have been connecting those dots, working with new partners and helping organizations across industries protect their most valued assets, both online and offline.” Integrated cyber and video solution Ava’s integrated cyber and video solution allows for separate analysis of data from all users, cameras, and servers Ava’s integrated cyber and video solution allows for separate analysis of data from all users, cameras, and servers. The human-centric cyber solution (formerly by Jazz Networks) employs a powerful combination of policy, education, and machine learning sensors to prevent IP theft and sabotage, improve cyber hygiene, and accelerate threat hunting. The end-to-end video solution (formerly by Vaion) delivers proactive video security, and insight including integrated video and audio analytics uniquely powered by machine learning algorithms, intuitive installation processes, and a range of smart cameras. For maximum flexibility and agility, video can be viewed from anywhere with simple web and mobile interfaces.  Managing physical and information security “By identifying both cyber and physical security threats before they become incidents, organizations can take a more proactive security posture,” stated Ree. “Managing our physical and information security needs through a wider lens has become critical to protecting our entire operation,” said Bill Tom, Director of Information Technology and Cyber security of Grace Farms Foundation, whose part of its mandate is to combat modern slavery, gender-based violence and environmental crimes. Enhancing data security Bill adds, “The Foundation carries out its work through the publicly available facilities and integrated programs of Grace Farms, an 80-acre property owned and operated by the Foundation with an even larger population accessing data. Ava allows us to leverage possible insider threat information into our overall physical security picture.” The average total cost of a data breach in the U.S. has grown from US$ 3.54 million in 2006 to US$ 8.19 million in 2019, a 130% increase over 14 years. The pressure on chief information security officers (CISOs) and security teams, in general, has increased incrementally. It is imperative that organizations have a flexible, secure solution to prevent incidents from occurring rather than just documenting the damage reactively. Driving innovation in unified security market Ava is driving innovation in the unified security market. Organizations must account for the full spectrum of risk" "Ava is driving innovation in the unified security market. It is no longer enough to protect against either physical or cyber threats. Organizations must account for the full spectrum of risk," said Espen Riksa, Director and Partner Manager, Atea. As companies move toward a hybrid workforce structure with employees splitting time between working in-office and remote, organizations must reassess processes to keep IT staff from burning out, while at the same time efficiently managing distributed systems and assets. Unified security solution “You can’t build firewalls around remote employees, businesses must empower and educate staff to make the right choices,” adds Tormod Ree, CEO, Ava Security. “We are excited to partner with Ava to bring innovative unified security solutions to our mutual customers,” said Urban Jansson, Sales Manager, Cygate, adding “Ava brings a unique understanding of the market’s pain points. Beyond protecting against physical and cyber threats, Ava understands that businesses don’t always have the in-house resources to monitor operations 24/7. Ava’s cutting edge use of machine learning and the cloud eases the burden on internal resources while proactively mitigating the risk.”

Ava, a unified security company, announced the completion of the merger between Jazz Networks, a cybersecurity insider threat detection and response company, and Vaion, an end-to-end video security provider. Ava is now uniquely positioned to deliver unified cyber and physical security solutions to organizations worldwide. “The only way to protect against hybrid cyber and physical security threats is to have a solution that can connect the dots across both domains,” said Tormod Ree, CEO, Ava. “In April, we announced our vision, and over the past five months, we have been connecting those dots. Working with new partners and helping organizations across industries protect their most valued assets: online and offline.” Improve cyber hygiene Ava’s integrated cyber and video solution allows for separate analysis of data from all users, cameras, and servers. The human-centric cyber solution (formerly by Jazz Networks) employs a powerful combination of policy, education and machine learning sensors to prevent IP theft and sabotage, improve cyber hygiene, and accelerate threat hunting. The end-to-end video solution (formerly by Vaion) delivers proactive video security, and insight including integrated video and audio analytics uniquely powered by machine learning algorithms, intuitive installation processes, and a range of smart cameras. For maximum flexibility and agility, video can be viewed from anywhere with simple web and cellphone interfaces. “By identifying both cyber and physical security threats before they become incidents, organizations can take a more proactive security posture,” said Ree. Overall physical security Ava allows us to leverage possible insider threat information into our overall physical security picture" “Managing our physical and information security needs through a wider lens has become critical to protecting our entire operation,” said Bill Tom, Director of Information Technology and Cybersecurity of Grace Farms Foundation, whose part of its mandate is to combat Modern Slavery, Gender based violence and Environmental Crimes. “The Foundation carries out its work through the publicly available facilities and integrated programs of Grace Farms, an 80-acre property owned and operated by the Foundation with an even larger population accessing data. Ava allows us to leverage possible insider threat information into our overall physical security picture.” Information security officers The average total cost of a data breach in the U.S. has grown from $3.54M in 2006 to $8.19M in 2019, a 130% increase over 14 years. The pressure on chief information security officers (CISOs) and security teams, in general, has increased incrementally. It is imperative that organizations have a flexible, secure solution to prevent incidents from occurring rather than just documenting the damage reactively. “Ava is driving innovation in the unified security market,” said Espen Riska, Atea. “It is no longer enough to protect against either physical or cyber threats. Organizations must account for the full spectrum of risk.” Efficiently managing systems We are excited to partner with Ava to bring innovative unified security solutions to our mutual customers" As companies move toward a hybrid workforce structure with employees splitting time between working in-office and remote, organizations must reassess processes to keep IT staff from burning out, while at the same time efficiently managing distributed systems and assets. “You can’t build firewalls around remote employees, businesses must empower and educate staff to make the right choices,” said Ree. Unified security solutions “We are excited to partner with Ava to bring innovative unified security solutions to our mutual customers,” said Urban Jansson, Sales Manager, Cygate. “Ava brings a unique understanding of the market’s pain points. Beyond protecting against physical and cyber threats, Ava understands that businesses don’t always have the in-house resources to monitor operations 24x7. Ava’s cutting-edge use of machine learning and the cloud eases the burden on internal resources while proactively mitigating the risk.”

Ava, a unified security company, has announced that former Cisco sales executive, Rick Hill, has joined the company as Vice President/General Manager of U.S. Enterprise Sales. Global Sales expert Over the last 15 years, Rick has built and led global sales teams and channel development. He will play a strategic role in building a world-class sales team and the rollout of Ava’s unified security solutions to partners and customers in the Americas region. We are excited about Rick’s inclusive leadership style and his proven ability to create value for the channel" “Rick’s successful track record in sales leadership and channel partnerships makes him a perfect fit to help accelerate revenue growth at this critical inflection point in our business,” said Tormod Ree, Chief Executive Officer of Ava. Ree adds, “As a rapidly growing company addressing the unmet need for a unified approach to cyber and video security, we are excited about Rick’s inclusive leadership style, his proven ability to create value for the channel, and his energetic, entrepreneurial mindset.” Solution-centric sales leader Rick brings 15 years of commercial, enterprise, and State, Local and Education (SLED) sales experience. At Cisco, Rick held numerous positions, including inside sales, account and regional manager, and most recently, director of sales, Global Enterprise. Rick also spent three years in Cisco’s U.S. Partner Organization, helping channel partners grow and strengthen their business. "Rick is an accomplished solution-centric sales leader who has consistently delivered excellent results over his years in the industry," said Rick Snyder, former Cisco SVP and recently appointed board member of Ava, adding "We are delighted that Rick will be leading the charge in growing our enterprise business." Data-driven holistic security "The opportunity to be part of such a qualified team providing solutions that are capable of disrupting an entire industry is truly exciting," said Rick Hill, Ava’s new Vice President of U.S. Enterprise. Hill adds, "Ava’s vision for data-driven holistic security, plus the ability to deliver this as a service, means organizations will get what they really need for proactive security and delivered in the way they want. Plus, the same machine learning that underlies Ava’s video and cyber solutions can be leveraged for business intelligence and operational visibility. Now that’s a true differentiator." Providing unified security solution Ava is the only provider to give organizations full visibility into potential multi-faceted hybrid attacks Ava is the only provider, under one roof, to give organizations full visibility into potential multi-faceted hybrid (cyber/physical security) attacks. Ava helps organizations address this growing problem with machine learning-powered cyber and video solutions that give security professionals access to quality, timely data and insights that can be shared across the security organization for actionable insight. “My role will be about bringing the concept of unified security to life for our customers and partners. Our success will require partnering with our channel to deliver real-time insights that empower our customers to make smarter and safer data-driven decisions, for the benefit of all of us, whether that’s organizations, consumers or citizens,” added Rick. Ava intelligent video security and cyber security solutions Ava addresses the need for a scalable intelligent video security solution that detects and addresses threats as incidents unfold through real-time data intelligence. This is made possible through the use of AI and a neural network (machine learning) that mimics the human brain’s ability to recognize patterns and categorize images. Ava’s cyber security platform allows global organizations to improve cyber hygiene, insider threat detection and response. Through continuously training employees and monitoring cyber hygiene, organizations are able to reduce the attack surface and protect data by combining deep visibility, rigorous policies and machine learning-based algorithms.

Ava, a unified security company, announced former Titus executive, Nick Maxwell, has joined the company as General Manager of the UK and MEA. Maxwell brings expertise in building and leading global teams and will play a strategic role in the launch of Ava’s unified security solution in these critical markets. “We are excited to have Nick join the team. We launched Ava in April to address growing market demand for unified security solutions,” said Tormod Ree, CEO of Ava. “Nick’s leadership style and relationships in the UK and MEA will allow us to bring these solutions to businesses that operate both locally and globally. Our vision is for organizations to take an integrated approach to physical and cybersecurity.” Physical and cybersecurity Matthew Piotrowski joins the team bringing vast experience in cybersecurity Maxwell’s team includes Neil Handley who brings 27 years of experience in the physical security industry. Handley brings the depth of knowledge and expertise needed to take Ava’s Vaion intelligent video security business to the next level. Matthew Piotrowski also joins the team bringing vast experience in cybersecurity and specifically, the MEA region. “Ava is a company that not only leads the industry with pioneering technology, but it is a company that understands how to listen and truly collaborate with its customers and strategic industry partners,” said Nick Maxwell, Ava’s General Manager of the UK and MEA. “It is the company’s culture that caught my attention. Ava recognizes and values the interests of all stakeholders including its employees and product development teams." Protect global organizations "As a result, Ava is positioned to lead the market in delivering a next-generation intelligent platform to protect global organizations from both insider and external threats.” Ava is the only provider, under one roof, to give organizations full visibility into potential multi-faceted attacks. Ava’s machine learning-powered cyber and video solutions are easy to use, and give security professionals access to quality, timely data that can be shared across the security organization for actionable insight. Ava’s philosophy is to prevent threats rather than watch them escalate. Intelligent video security solutions The company addresses the need for a scalable intelligent video security solution across markets - government, retail, commercial, healthcare, and education. By taking a proactive approach to security, Ava’s (Vaion) end-to-end intelligent video system detects and addresses threats as incidents unfold through real-time data intelligence. This is made possible through the use of AI and a neural network that mimics the human brain’s ability to recognize patterns and categorize images. Ava’s intelligent video system detects threats as incidents unfold through real-time data intelligence The end-to-end video solution includes a video management system with integrated video and audio analytics powered by machine learning algorithms, analytics appliances, intuitive installation processes, and a range of smart cameras. Ava’s (Jazz Networks) cybersecurity platform allows global organizations to improve cyber hygiene through an award-winning solution that protects what matters most to customers - their people, data, and reputation. cybersecurity solutions Ava’s approach to cybersecurity delivers a human-centric solution for insider threat detection and response. Through continuously training employees and monitoring cyber hygiene, organizations are able to reduce the attack surface and protect data by combining deep visibility, rigorous policies, and machine learning-based algorithms. Ava helps organizations across industries address the growing issue of hybrid attacks through a holistic approach that is flexible, simple, and, most of all, comprehensive. By identifying patterns and anomalies that span the physical and cyber domains, Ava is able to exchange data and events. Unified security “Ava is leading the way for unified security in EMEA. We’ve got a strong and growing partner base and I’m excited to have the opportunity to accelerate the company’s expansion across both geographies and vertical markets,” said Maxwell.

Ava, a unified security company, announces former Cisco Senior Vice President, Rick Snyder, has joined the company’s Board of Directors. Snyder brings more than three decades of leadership experience in sales and building strategic partner programs. At Cisco, Snyder managed the company’s vast network of 23,000 partners in the Americas region. As an advisor to Ava, Snyder will help guide and strengthen the company’s presence in North America. Building strategic partnerships “Rick has a history of building strong industry relationships. At this juncture in Ava’s lifecycle, building strategic partnerships is vital to our long-term market position and our ability to provide our customers with the best solutions on the market,” said Fredrik Halvorsen, Chairman and Co-founder, Ava. “Rick will help advice Ava as to the best route to market via our growing partner channel.” Snyder joins the Ava Board of Directors from Cisco, where he led the company’s Americas Partner Sales Organization covering the United States, Canada and Latin America. During his tenure, Snyder pioneered the development of Cisco’s Digital Solution Integrator Program and Partner Experience teams. Both programs were critical to Cisco’s success in expanding its route to market through the channel. Strengthening the commercial presence I’m thrilled to be joining Ava’s Board of Directors at this important stage in the company’s history" Prior to Cisco, Snyder served as Vice President of Global Business at Telepresence and President of Tandberg, both acquired by Cisco. Earlier in his career, Snyder was CEO of Polycom's largest value-add distributor, Review Video (now a part of Westcon). Snyder holds a degree in Business Administration and Management from Loyola University in Maryland. “I’m thrilled to be joining Ava’s Board of Directors at this important stage in the company’s history,” said Rick Snyder. “Today, companies and organizations want to be protected against threats that span the physical and cyber domains. Ava’s leadership team was brilliant to launch with the mission to fill the gap. It's an honor to be an advisor as Ava strengthens its commercial presence in North America.” Hybrid security solution Ava, a unified security company, brings together the technologies of Vaion’s intelligent video security solutions and Jazz Networks’ award-winning cybersecurity solutions. Ava helps organizations across industries address the growing issue of hybrid attacks through a holistic approach that is flexible, simple, and, most of all, comprehensive. By identifying patterns and anomalies that span the physical and cyber domains, Ava is able to exchange data and events between the two platforms to create a truly integrated hybrid security solution. “Partners are key to Ava’s growth in the unified security sector,” said Tormod Ree, CEO and co-founder, Ava. “Rick’s depth of experience and breadth of partner relationships will allow us to scale as we continue to transform the security industry and drive growth.” “I’ve spent my career growing companies through the building of strategic relationships and I’m excited by the possibilities presented by Ava,” said Snyder.

Jazz Networks, globally-renowned cybersecurity insider threat detection and response solutions firm, and Vaion, an end-to-end video security solutions provider, has announced that they have merged to create a unified security provider under the name, Ava. In response to the rise in hybrid attacks involving both physical and cybersecurity, the two companies have united to help organizations monitor, understand, and act on threats in real-time to protect people, assets and data. Both companies are privately held by Ubon Partners and employees. Integrated approach to cyber and physical security “Our vision is for organizations to take an integrated approach to physical and cybersecurity. When it comes to security gaps, attackers don’t discriminate, and the consequences are costly,” said Tormod Ree, CEO of Ava, adding “Yet security professionals aren’t able to see and investigate patterns across both physical and information assets because the data is overwhelming, tools are too complex, and security structures are compartmentalised.” Attackers are exploiting weaknesses in physical security systems to bypass network protections and manually dismantle cybersecurity or digital controls. Despite the availability of data, operators don’t have the insights needed to act. Machine learning-powered cyber and video solutions Ava’s machine learning-powered cyber and video solutions are easy to use Ava is now the only provider, under one roof, to give organizations full visibility into potential multi-faceted attacks. Ava’s machine learning-powered cyber and video solutions are easy to use, and give security professionals access to quality, timely data that can be shared across the security organization for actionable insight. Initially, the combined company will continue to offer cyber and video solutions allowing for separate analysis of data from all users, cameras, and servers. The human-centric cyber solution (formerly by Jazz Networks) will continue to employ a powerful combination of policy and machine learning sensors to prevent IP theft and sabotage, improve cyber hygiene, and accelerate threat hunting. Enhancing cyber security The end-to-end video solution (formerly by Vaion) will continue to provide proactive, video security, and insight. The offering includes integrated video and audio analytics powered by machine learning algorithms, intuitive installation processes, and a range of smart cameras. “By identifying both cyber and physical security threats before they become incidents, organizations can take a more proactive security posture,” added Tormod Ree. Cross-domain security solutions Over time, cross-domain security solutions will allow for even deeper data visibility. Ultimately, Ava will offer fully converged solutions to support organizations as they move toward joint cyber/physical security operations. Converged offerings could include features such as a unified interface and common data storage and analytics engines. “We believe Ava is uniquely positioned to address this growing security challenge,” said Fredrik Halvorsen of Ubon Partners, adding “Plus, new hybrid security gaps are emerging as a result of suddenly shuttered buildings and 100% remote workforces due to COVID 19. This is an important time to re-think security.” Threat detection and intelligent video security Identifying the patterns provides heightened visibility into the potential for threats, breaches, or policy violations Jazz Networks protects organizations from cybersecurity risks within. Vaion has been changing the traditional video security landscape with computer vision capabilities that make it easier for businesses and organizations to monitor their physical assets proactively. In both cases, organizations can detect threats in their earliest stages and perform fast, effective investigations with fewer resources. Under Ava, real-time insights from the cyber insider threat detection tools or intelligent video security solutions will enable security professionals to discover patterns across their entire security ecosystem, regardless of whether the anomaly is physical or digital. Identifying the patterns provides heightened visibility into the potential for threats, breaches, or policy violations. Data infrastructure and enterprise security “Our customers are constantly asking how to best protect their infrastructure,” added Espen Riska, Director at Atea Norge AS, globally renowned IT infrastructure for businesses and public-sector organizations in Europe’s Nordic and Baltic regions. Espen added, “As a current partner to both Jazz Networks and Vaion, we have already been beating the drum about how a unified approach will benefit every customer.”