G. Michael Verden, CPP

www.hillardheintze.com

Specialities Security Management and Strategic Services Emergency Preparedness Protective Operations Investigations and Due Diligence Information Security and Risk

Industries Sports Entertainment Commercial Properties Industrial Properties Residential Properties Special Events

Client Benefits

In close collaboration with our clients, Hillard Heintze directs thought leadership and strategic planning to produce organizational designs and improve processes for the security function. Viewing security as a crucial set of systemic protective measures, Hillard Heintze provides integrated solutions with an enterprise-wide perspective that addresses strategic, tactical and fundamental concerns. Hillard Heintze specializes in providing experienced, practical insight and comprehensive services in the field of security.

Professional Background

G. Michael Verden is one of the world's leading experts in executive protection, security planning and operations at stadiums, convention centers and major entertainment venues. For over 20 years, Mike had a highly distinguished career with the United States Secret Service.   From 1987 to 1991, Mike was a member of the prestigious Presidential Protective Division where he planned and implemented security strategies to protect President Ronald Reagan and President George H.W. Bush.

As a senior manager in the Secret Service's Major Events Division, Mike designed and coordinated seminars for National Special Security Event's which included the Kentucky Derby, Indianapolis 500, the Masters and the Breeders Cup. He also served as security planner for the 2003 Women's World Cup Soccer, the 2002 - 2004 Super Bowls, and the 2002 Winter Olympics, the International Monetary Fund Conference, G-8 Summit, United Nations General Assembly and 1996 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Mike also led the 2004 Presidential Operations Section where he directed security planning for all presidential candidates.  

After retiring from the Secret Service, Mike served as the Senior Director of Security for the National Basketball Association.  Mike managed and coordinated the global security plan for the NBA's international offices and players, conducting advance security visits in Greece, China, South Africa and Brazil. Mike also directed all NBA criminal investigations and security-related incidents throughout the league. He recently designed and implemented the operational security plans for the 2005 NBA All Star Game in Denver and the 2006 NBA All Star Game in Houston.

Other

Beginning his career in law enforcement as an officer with the Skokie , Illinois Police Department, Mike received early training in leadership, life-safety and assault training. He earned a Master of Science degree in criminology at Indiana State University and a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice at Western Illinois University.

Mike has received numerous awards for superior service, including the Department of Treasury Awards for his contributions to the XIX Winter Olympics' security plan and for being one of the primary architects who designed the National Capital Airspace Security Policy following the tragic events of September 11th.  

Mike is Board Certified in Security Management and has attained the coveted Certified Protection Professional (CPP) designation as awarded by ASIS International.