Showsec reveals how to raise the bar on command and control in arenas
As live venues face increasing operational and safety pressures, robust command-and-control structures have never been more critical. With growing audience expectations and more complex event environments, arena operators are under increasing pressure to ensure clear decision-making, effective coordination, and rapid response when incidents occur.
Ahead of his session at the Arenas Operators and Developers World Summit, Tom Bailey, Regional Manager – Northeast at UK-based crowd management and event security specialist Showsec, shares insights on strengthening command structures, improving operational control, and raising safety and security standards across live venues.
What key topic will you be addressing at the Arenas Operators and Developers World Summit, and why is it so relevant right now?
“We will be addressing the critical implementation of a command-and-control structure at events. For venue operators, having a clear chain of command, structured control room operation, and centralised decision-making is essential to maintain safety, manage emergencies efficiently, and protect both customers and staff. Almost all crowd safety incidents have shown that gaps in command structures can have serious consequences, making this topic particularly relevant today.”
How does your company help solve a major challenge facing live-venue operators?
“Our recently accredited Level 5 programme in Command, Control and Coordination helps management teams establish clear command structures and manage communications effectively during events, while underpinning best-practice principles to support effective decision-making. It ensures managers can respond confidently to incidents and coordinate teams efficiently. In conjunction with our Level 2 and 3 training for security and stewarding staff, and our Level 5 programme in Event Security Operations and Crowd Safety Management, it develops a skilled workforce capable of best-in-class crowd management, enhancing the overall event experience for audiences.”
What outcomes or collaborations are you hoping to see from the summit?
“We aim to spark conversation around command-and-control structures and processes across venues, share best-practice approaches, and encourage the adoption of structured training to improve safety and operational efficiency industry-wide.”
Security and safety are top priorities for live venues. How is Showsec innovating in this space?
“We are introducing a formal, accredited programme that builds command, control, and coordination capability at a professional level. This ensures venues have staff who can make informed decisions during planning and in real time and respond effectively to incidents.”
With fan experience becoming a key differentiator, how does your approach enhance satisfaction and loyalty?
“By ensuring staff are trained to manage operations in a unified and consistent way, incidents are less frequent and more quickly resolved. The C3 programme helps create a safer environment. Fans experience fewer disruptions, faster incident resolution, and greater confidence in the venue, enhancing engagement and loyalty.”
What trends do you see shaping arena operations over the next three to five years?
“Audience expectations around safety and security will continue to evolve. Venues will need to place greater focus on the customer journey and how effective safety measures enhance, rather than hinder, the overall experience. Our Level 2 and 3 training programmes, alongside Level 5 programmes in Event Security Operations and Crowd Safety Management, are developing a highly skilled workforce capable of delivering best-in-class crowd management and customer service. To support this further, we will also be launching a Level 6 programme in Strategic and Tactical Crowd Management and Event Security Operations.”
What are you most looking forward to at the Arenas Operators and Developers World Summit?
“We are looking forward to connecting with industry colleagues, sharing our approach to professionalising command and control, and exploring opportunities to raise standards across venues.”
The Arenas Operators and Developers World Summit will be hosted at the NEC in Birmingham, UK, from 10-11 February 2026. Book your delegate pass today by clicking here.