Dean Russo, Former Head of ISC Expo, Joins SIA

By Laura Stepanek, Contributing writer

The Security Industry Association (SIA) today announced the addition of Dean Russo as director of international relations.

“Even in these uncertain economic times, the security industry has not lost relevance at the global economic level,” SIA stated in a press release announcing Russo’s appointment.

Russo will develop and implement SIA’s international strategic business plans and serve as the primary contact for all international efforts. SIA said he will focus on developing opportunities for SIA members and leveraging SIA’s reach and influence in global markets. His work will involve strategic relationships with international associations and security exhibitions.

“I have worked with Dean for over 10 years as a strategic business and show partner and now to have him as a strategic part of the SIA team in this capacity is a real coup for our industry and organization. He has a proven track record of success in this area and has already developed and cultivated a variety of key international relationships in the global security marketplace. With his strategic business development and partnership building skills, knowledge of the global security industry, and established record of achievement, I expect SIA and its members will soon be able to take advantage of new business opportunities that previously would have not been possible or economically feasible ,” said Richard Chace, CEO of SIA.

A former group vice president and sales director for Reed Exhibitions, Russo has been involved in the security industry for more than 10 years. During Russo’s tenure, he worked closely with SIA and ISC West realized the most significant growth in its long history, solidifying its reputation as one the premiere security exhibitions in the global security market.

Russo served on SIA’s board of directors from 2005 to 2006, and in 2007 was presented with Reed Exhibitions Chairman’s award for his achievements on the ISC events, and the launch of ISC Brazil, and Web portal ISC365.

This year at the industry’s Tri-Association Awards Dinner and Gala, to be held during ISC East, he will be presented with SIA’s highest honor, the George R. Lippert award.

Laura Stepanek is a SDM contributing writer. Laura was the Editor of SDM from 2001-2020 and first joined the publication in 1984. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Barat College of DePaul University.