Symposium Speakers

Keynote Speaker

Michael White, CPP CRM SAS-AP CPD

Michael is an internationally recognized forensic security and risk management consultant specializing in safeguarding organizations and individuals. His expertise is grounded in forensic science, he conducts comprehensive security assessments, investigates incidents, and provides expert guidance to mitigate risks. Whether it is improving security measures, responding to crises, or navigating legal challenges. he assists, guides, and recommends cost effective, mission aligned solutions.

Michael brings extensive Security, Risk and Emergency Management expertise to assist private organizations, government bodies, and high-prole individuals in risk mitigation, security enhancement, and emergency preparedness. He excels in improving security operations and implementing cost-effective risk mitigation strategies. His passion centers on advancing industry standards.

His diverse expertise spans Critical Infrastructure, Commercial Retail, Residential Property Management, and high-net-worth individuals. Michael collaborates with law enforcement agencies across multiple countries.

He holds prestigious certications, including CPP from ASIS, CRM from the University of Toronto, and a Post GraduateCerticate in Security Management from Buckinghamshire New University. He also earned a certicate in Advanced Terrorism and Political Violence Studies from the University of St. Andrews and certications from Arcuri Group LLC and the National Institute of Crime Prevention.

As an ISO PECB certied trainer and Lead Implementer in ISO 22301 Business Continuity Management Systems, Michael harnesses organizations' strengths to manage risks, engage personnel, and enhance security.

Dedicated to community involvement, Michael volunteers his time and expertise on international and national security and crime prevention committees, contributing to recognized standards and guidelines. That includes co-hosting a risk and security related podcast called The Security Vine where they nd a way to laugh about serious things.

In a world where security and risk management are paramount, whether improving security measures, responding to crises, or navigating legal challenges, Michael delivers mission-aligned, cost-effective solutions that safeguard both people and assets.

Alexandra Hoffman

CEO of CRISIS ALLY,

10:20 am - Facing Complexity Together; Collaborative Problem-Solving

Alexandra Hoffmann is the CEO of CRISIS ALLY, which helps Crisis Leaders and their teams build the right capabilities to thrive through crises. Crisis Ally serves clients internationally. Thanks to a career with the French government and large international corporations, Alexandra has a rich operational and multicultural experience with strong expertise in Business Resilience, its boosting factors, and best practices to manage it. She is regularly interviewed in the print media to discuss corporate resilience topics, including Authority Magazine, Business Insider, and Thrive Global. She also writes for ASIS Security Management Magazine and the Crisis Response Journal and regularly presents at events.  Over the course of her career, Alexandra has served in a couple of NGOs as a volunteer, such as the American Red Cross and the French Red Cross.

Alexandra has an LLB in Criminal Law from Paris University, France, an M.Sc. in Corporate Security from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. Alexandra is also a Certified Coach, trained in Neurosciences, and a Certified Yoga Teacher.

Robin Whyte

Creator, Advocate, Writer, Model

1:25 pm - Accessibility and Business Continuity Programs:  Is your business continuity program inclusive and accommodate those with disabilities?

Born and raised on southern Vancouver Island, she is a true lover of nature and a true west coast adventurer. But after being diagnosed with MS at age 30, life took an unexpected twist as she learned how to navigate the world from a compact mobility scooter.  Nowadays, she works as a consultant and advocate in the accessibility/inclusive tourism field.  She is a Rick Hanson Foundation Accessibility Specialist and the creator of Girl About Town: Accessible Victoria (www.girlabouttown.ca).  She writes articles about accessibility regarding the built environment.  She recently completed writing and modeling for the Tourism Accessibility Guides for Tourism Vancouver Island and continues to work on projects utilizing the expertise she has gained as a person with a disability who won't be kept down.  She is also the community advisor, Vancouver Island, Technology for Living.