Security in motion: Reflections from Dublin 

James Thorpe, Editor of ISJ, reflects on ASIS Europe – From Risk to Resilience 2025, which took place 4-6 March in Dublin, Ireland.

Attending ASIS Europe 2025 in Dublin was a chance to engage with the latest discussions shaping the security industry.

Events like this provide a different perspective – one that comes from hearing ideas debated in real time and seeing how professionals are tackling today’s challenges. 

The Convention Centre Dublin, overlooking the River Liffey, provided a fitting venue. Industry gatherings like this often have a certain rhythm to them: The hum of conversation in the corridors, moments of concentration during sessions and presentations as well as the buzz of networking over tea and coffee.

This event was no different. However, there was a clear sense of focus among attendees, a recognition that our industry is evolving rapidly, and with it, the need to adapt. 

During the conference, I saw familiar faces but also had the opportunity to exchange introductions with new contacts.

These conversations – whether planned or incidental – are often where the most valuable insights emerge.

Whilst the event’s agenda touched on everything from technology to strategy, it always comes back to people and their ability to safeguard an unpredictable world. 

Legacy and innovation 

Dublin brought a unique backdrop to the event – a city where historical heritage meets a thriving technology sector.

It was a fitting setting to explore longstanding security principles as well as emerging challenges. Outside the convention centre, the contrast between past and present was unmistakable, from historic landmarks to the sleek, glass-fronted offices lining the waterfront. 

Standing on the first floor of the venue, the view over the Liffey captured this blend of old and new. To the right, the Samuel Beckett Bridge stretched across the water, a modern icon of the city.

On either side of the Convention Centre Dublin, AIG and PwC offices highlight the city’s role as a global business hub. In the distance, the Dublin Mountains frame the horizon.  

I often hear professionals discuss the balance between legacy and innovation – the need to respect foundational principles while embracing change. This amazing city well reflected that conversation.  

Beyond the backdrop, however, what stood out at this year’s event was the sense of purpose among those in attendance.

Security, in all its forms and across multiple disciplines, is rarely static. Challenges shift, but the need for vigilance, adaptation and collaboration remains constant.

That sense of purpose was evident in the way many conversations unfolded. 

Legacy was a key theme explored in the opening discussion of the conference, where ASIS Europe 2025 Conference Co-Chairs Gavin Henderson, Vice President of Cybersecurity Innovation, Strategy & Outreach at Mastercard, and Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability and Security Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, reflected on ASIS International’s impact over the past 70 years.  

Henderson and Huijbrechts set the stage for ASIS leaders to highlight the organisation’s lasting footprint in the security industry, setting the tone for the other conversations ahead.

“The voice of security”

“For 70 years, we’ve done something right by being open to different perspectives and leading from the front,” explained Joe Olivarez, Jr., MBA, 2025 President of ASIS International, who joined them on stage. 

“We have always been that servant leader and collaborator in the industry. We’ve gone from being present just in the US industry to becoming an international organisation that acts as the voice of security.”

He concluded: “I think one of the most important things that we’ve done is listen. If we continue to do this, we will endure to be proactive, agile and responsive to our constituents – we will be relevant today, tomorrow and into the future.” 

“Enhancing the security resilience”

Andy Williams – Chair of the European Regional Board of ASIS International – added to this: “In 1999, I attended the ASIS European Regional Conference – it was smaller than this [ASIS Europe 2025], but it was equally as memorable! Back then ASIS stood for the American Society for Industrial Security. Now, we’re ASIS International.  

“It’s that International component that attracts and brings people together,” Williams continued. “Nearly 3,000 security professionals across Europe and 27 chapters represent a broad range of backgrounds and skillsets, enhancing the security resilience of our wonderful continent,” he added.  

“A really strong foundation”

Bill Tenney, CEO, also had his say: “ASIS was built on a few key concepts. In order to excel, security professionals need reliable information, professional standards and a strong network.

“The other key concept that ASIS founders understood was that no one person or organisation has all the answers. They built ASIS as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing that has stood the test of time.  

“Today, how we connect may have changed, but needs remain the same. Our role at ASIS is really to provide the framework to gather and share information to create those professional standards to help us build, sustain and grow that professional network at events like this.

“I think it in doing that, we take the collective wisdom of everyone and advance the profession, increasing our capabilities beyond what we can do alone. I think we’ve got a really strong foundation and I’m excited for where we can go in the future,” Tenney concluded. 

Founded in 1955, ASIS International is a global community of security practitioners. The association’s members represent multiple industries across public and private sectors and organisations of all sizes. From entry-level managers and CSOs to CEOs, the ASIS community is global and diverse. 

Opinions and insights 

One key highlight of the event was hearing from Ed McLaughlin, President and Chief Technology Officer at Mastercard, who delivered the 2025 Opening Keynote.

During this address, McLaughlin shared insights into the company’s approach to leading through technology, offering a forward-looking perspective on emerging trends, including AI and their implications for global businesses.  

He explored the relationship between people and technology, discussing how they will collaborate in the organisations of the future.

As a member of its management committee, McLaughlin oversees Mastercard’s technology functions, including its payments network, enterprise platforms, technology infrastructure and operations, information security and global technology hubs.  

McLaughlin emphasised the importance of upholding ASIS International’s mission to ensure organisations can fulfill their commitments.

He also challenged the traditional view of security as merely a support function, arguing instead that it should be seen as a core business objective.

Using Mastercard as an example, he suggested that this perspective was likely relevant to all organisations. 

Additionally, McLaughlin highlighted the need to adapt to rapid and unprecedented changes shaping the business environment.

He stressed that security professionals must take on leadership roles, embracing innovation and new technologies to enhance their operations.

By being early adopters of advancements that improve efficiency, organisations can gain a significant competitive edge. 

Throughout the event, numerous sessions tackled such pressing questions, offering insights from experts and stakeholders working to protect diverse operations and organisations.

One discussion, ‘Is the World Really Becoming More Dangerous? Perceptions vs Reality of Global Security,’ really challenged narratives and examined the true nature of today’s threats.

The ‘ESRM Beyond the Books: Implementing a Risk-Led Security Program in the Real World’ workshop also captivated attendees. 

Beyond formal sessions, however, the value of events like ASIS Europe also lies in the informal moments – grabbing a coffee with a new contact or simply observing how different sectors are approaching similar challenges.

Security is not a one-size-fits-all discipline and hearing from professionals across industries reinforced just how varied the landscape is. 

While the tools and tactics of our industry may evolve, core principles remain unchanged. In the end, it is the expertise, judgment and adaptability of people that continues to drive our industry forward.

If you can, I encourage you to attend the 2026 event. Join the journey and access valuable insights.