Elite ISI - Experts & Thought Leaders

Elite Interactive Solutions, the industry pioneer in remote video guarding and real-time crime prevention, announces the appointment of three key executive roles. The staffing additions come in the wake of the recent private equity investment from CIVC Partners and promotion of Michael Zatulov to CEO. Joining Elite are Jonathan Schwan as CFO, Thomas Stone III as Chief Security Officer, and Eran Yaniv as Vice President of Engineering. Prior roles of Schwan  Schwan brings nearly two decades of financial leadership and deep industry expertise to Elite. He previously spent more than 16 years as Managing Director at CIBC Bank USA, where he led the Security Industry Group as its Group Portfolio Manager and advised a wide range of companies in the security and life safety services sectors. He holds a B.S. in Business and Economics from North Park University and an MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business. “I am thrilled to join Elite Interactive Solutions at such a pivotal time in the company’s growth,” says Schwan. “Elite’s innovative approach to crime prevention is transforming the remote guarding industry, and I look forward to helping scale its impact through strategic financial leadership and operational excellence.” Stone’s responsibilities Stone comes to Elite following 27 years with the Los Angeles Police Department and nearly 30 years in law enforcement, concluding his LAPD career as Sergeant II for the LAPD’s Metropolitan Division Armory. He also served almost 25 years in the U.S. Army with eight years’ active, decorated service that included Operation Desert Storm and leadership roles in deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Stone has also acted as an instructor for the National Tactical Officers Association and LAPD Leadership Academy. As CSO, Stone’s responsibilities include overseeing the Security Operations Command Centre, the crown jewel of Elite’s remote video monitoring services, and other security-related issues. In addition, he leads the company’s Law Enforcement Executive Board, which is comprised of former police chiefs who liaison with agencies nationwide to build and strengthen Elite’s crime-fighting partnership with police.  Educational background for Yaniv  Yaniv is a Computer Science graduate from Bar-Ilan University in Israel, working as an armed security detail to finance his degree. His career includes five years at PayPal leading the product team for the AI platform, seven years at eBay leading the product team for the search platform, and various leadership, product, architecture, and engineering roles at HP, Mercury Interactive, and several startups. Yaniv is based in Idaho, where he lives with his wife and three daughters. “Having worked in both onsite and personal security and spending more than a quarter-century in technology, I am excited to join Elite Interactive Solutions’ mission to help customers feel safer, make better use of their security resources, and significantly reduce the costs of on-site guard services,” says Yaniv.

Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven, real-time crime prevention, is pleased to announce a new partnership with the California New Car Dealer Association (CNCDA). Under the agreement, Elite becomes an officially licenced vendor to CNCDA’s 1,200 franchised new car and truck dealers throughout California. In its official announcement about the Elite partnership, CNCDA stated, “When our members use the services of a CNCDA Licenced Vendor, they are work with companies we have vetted and trust and directly support the mission of the association. We thank you!” Elite’s most prevalent clients Auto dealerships are among Elite’s most prevalent clients, including many of the nation’s largest operators CNCDA focuses on protecting and promoting the interests of franchised new car dealers before all state government and regulatory agencies. In 2024, member businesses sold more than 1.85 million new cars and trucks and employed more than 138,000 people. Auto dealerships are among Elite’s most prevalent clients, including many of the nation’s largest operators, with several of those loyal relationships dating back 10 years or more. Elite’s remote guarding “Elite is excited to launch this partnership with CNCDA. Although our service is nationwide, our L.A. base and prominence with California auto dealers makes Elite the ideal security source for CNCDA member businesses,” said Jon Kromroy, Elite VP Security Solutions and lead rep to the vehicle protection market. He adds, “Whether it’s an auto dealership, parking facility, car rental lot or anywhere vehicles are kept — Elite’s remote guarding is the ultimate security solution, preventing crime before it happens.” Integration of advanced AI-driven security technologies Elite difference is the unique integration of advanced AI-driven security technologies managed by security professionals During 2024, Elite’s command centre agents directly prevented more than 16,000 crimes for automotive clients and assisted in nearly 500 arrests/detainments when it became necessary to engage law enforcement.  The Elite difference is the unique integration of advanced AI-driven security technologies managed by highly trained remote security professionals and partnerships with law enforcement ensuring response. Elite’s technology filters Elite forensically designs and custom engineers every system, which is then monitored by its state-of-the-art Security Operations Command Centre. Elite’s technology filters alerts and eliminates false alarms to allow operators to focus on true incidents and monitors system and network health to never miss an event. Within an average of just 7 seconds, eyes are on a client site followed by a live voice-down, which results in the perpetrator immediately fleeing the scene 96% of the time.  Elite's trusted relationships Throughout the crime in progress, Elite remains on the line to assist and help officers respond more safely The other 4% of the time local law enforcement is called in and typically responds with a high priority due to the trusted relationships Elite has built with agencies nationwide. Throughout the crime in progress, Elite remains on the line to assist and help officers respond more safely. To assure a seamless private-public partnership, Elite is the only security provider with a Law Enforcement Advisory Board comprised of former chiefs. Elite’s remote video guarding The benefits to be realised through Elite by CNCDA members are many. Elite’s solution minimises auto dealer losses, damages and human harm. It has been proven to be more effective and efficient than other security systems or human guards. Elite’s remote video guarding is also much more cost-effective than human guards. It can protect organisations’ operations, profitability and reputation.

Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven, real-time crime prevention, announces it will have an exhibit hall presence for the first time at the Global Security Exposition (GSX). This year’s GSX takes place Sept. 29-Oct. 1 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. Organised by ASIS International, the tradeshow is one of industry’s renowned annual North American events, typically drawing more than 20,000 professionals from across the commercial security channel. Elite’s substantial differentiation “Elite has one of the industry’s most compelling stories to tell and solutions to offer — market-renowned client retention based on unmatched success preventing crimes in real-time,” says Marketing Director, Scott Goldfine. He adds, “Our leadership and reps are eager to meet with technology pioneers, commercial end users, integrators, guard companies and media alike at GSX to discuss Elite’s substantial differentiation, how the solution optimises security effectiveness and efficiency, and mutually beneficial partnerships.” Elite’s remote guarding services Elite’s 24/7/365 SOCC directly prevented more than 78,000 incidents and actively assisted with police Scheduled visitors to Elite’s GSX show-floor suite (No. 1177) will learn about remote guarding services that are having a profound impact on preventing crimes.  During 2024, Elite’s 24/7/365 Security Operations Command Centre (SOCC) directly prevented more than 78,000 incidents and actively assisted with police in 1,900 other live crime situations that concluded with suspects being detained or arrested 57% of the time. Those incidents and police engagement totals were record highs, as were the 19.4 million events cleared along with the 1,074 arrests & detainments. Elite’s added value Elite’s added value includes serving as a force multiplier and live eyewitness partner to police as they respond to active crimes in progress. Elite is the only company with its own Law Enforcement Advisory Board, comprised of former police chiefs who are integral to the company’s standardised dispatch protocols and jurisdictional relationships. Despite increases in clients, cameras and alerts during the past several years, Elite has maintained its promise of zero false alarms and its pledge to never miss an event.  Elite's crime prevention solution Through the years, Elite has continued to innovate and perfect its crime prevention solution Through the years, Elite has continued to innovate and perfect its crime prevention solution, which is predicated on the scientific blend of four pillars: technologies, practices, people and partnerships.  These elements coalesce within its nerve centre, a state-of-the-art, subterranean UL Security Operations Command Center located within one of the nation’s most fortified buildings in Downtown Los Angeles that is manned 24/7 by former military and law enforcement operators. Elite's long-term choice “During the past couple of years, Elite has significantly ramped up its exposure and growth. Hosting a suite on the show floor at GSX continues that progression as the company ramps up to scale its services nationwide,” adds Scott Goldfine. He continues, “We are excited to engage in meaningful conversations and explain why — whether it’s partnering with technology providers, guard companies and integrators or protecting commercial end users — Elite is the ideal, long-term choice. We look forward to seeing everyone there!” What: Global Security Expo (GSX); gsx.org (get show app at gsx.org/mobile) Where: Ernest N. Morial Convention Centre, New Orleans; Suite 1177 (on expo floor) Why: Elite Interactive Solutions; Set meetings via GSX app When: Sept. 29-Oct. 1 (Mon.-Tue. 9:30-4:30, Wed. 9:30-3)

In the realm of physical security, the distinction between being perceived as a security vendor and a security partner holds great importance. While both may seem interchangeable at first glance, how an organisation is viewed by its clients can have a huge impact on the success of its security programmes. At the heart of this differentiation is the concept of relationships and how they shape the dynamics between providers and their clients.  Time, care, and diligence For security vendors such as systems integrators, security dealers, monitored services providers or manufacturers that sell directly to the end user elevating from supplier to partner requires a greater investment of time, care, and diligence. However, the eventual payoff can be incalculably advantageous to the organisation. Not only does this approach better serve the client but it also cultivates longer-term business and is more likely to generate referrals. Clients will change vendors often but stick with partners for the long haul.  Simple installation and/or service Security end-users should look to their security products and service providers to partner with them Security end-users should look to their security products and service providers to partner with them, be vested in their success, and be part of the solution. They should seek out and expect more than a simple installation and/or service in the absence of any real, tangible, and value-added relationship with stakeholders. That means looking deeper than the similar cameras or equipment most vendors provide. Doing so brings benefits from the partnership in solving problems and creating strategies for mitigation.  Vendors have short shelf lives  A security vendor is typically seen as a transactional company that offers products or services to address specific security needs or challenges. When an organisation engages with a vendor, the focus is primarily on the exchange of goods and/or services for a fee. The relationship tends to be more transactional, with limited interaction beyond the scope of the security solution being provided.  Tools, technologies, or service offerings The relationship between a security vendor and a client is often short with a one-time purchase Security vendors often play a crucial role in the security industry by offering specialised tools, technologies, or services that can help organisations improve their defences against threats. Examples would be video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, or fire/life-safety systems, as well as the monitoring of any of them from a central monitoring station or security operations command centre. The thing about it is, however, that the relationship between a security vendor and a client is often short with a one-time purchase and limited ongoing engagement or consultation.  Partners prove their value  On the other hand, a security partner is viewed as a member of the team that works closely with an organisation to address its security challenges. Unlike a vendor, a security partner is invested in the long-term success of their clients and is committed to building a strong relationship based on expertise, trust, and transparency.  Creating custom solutions Security partners go beyond offering products or services by engaging with companies and organisations Security partners go beyond offering products or services by engaging with companies and organisations to understand their unique security needs, goals, and challenges. They work concurrently with organisations to develop customised security solutions, provide support and guidance, and adapt to ever-changing threats and risks.  When this kind of scenario is developed, the potentially distracting and detracting focus on monetary cost moves to the back burner because the value and return on investment (ROI) are so thoroughly compelling.   Relationships bring real benefits  The core of the difference between being perceived as a security vendor and a security partner hinges on the crucial role of relationships. While vendors focus on transactions and sales, partners prioritise collaboration and a sense of being in it together. Building strong relationships based on trust, communication, and shared goals is essential for forging a successful security partnership.  Personalised approach Security partners navigate complex security challenges, drive innovation, and deliver incredible value over the long term Security partners are not just providers of security solutions; they are trusted advisors who are invested in the success and well-being of their clients. They can be reached easily when needed and emphasise a personalised approach with custom-tailored solutions. By building strong relationships based on respect and understanding, security partners navigate complex security challenges, drive innovation, and deliver incredible value over the long term.  Operational opportunities Businesses and facilities often encounter or face very specific security needs that can only truly be solved in concert with a vendor that essentially acts like an extension of the end-user organisation. Furthermore, when communicating and collaborating on that level, additional security/safety and sometimes even operational opportunities for improvement come to light. This amplifies the value for both the end customer and their security vendor. Talk about a win-win!  Prosper with partner power  While vendors offer products or services, partners offer teamwork, expertise, and a shared commitment At the end of the day, the difference between being a security vendor and a security partner is not merely a matter of semantics. It is about the fundamental difference in approach and mindset toward physical (electronic and networked) security. While vendors offer products or services, partners offer teamwork, expertise, and a shared commitment to reducing losses and crime.   Quality of relationships Ultimately, it is the quality of relationships that separates providers in the security space and determines the success of security initiatives in the current rapidly changing security landscape. This unification of intent, practice, and purpose enables practitioners and the public alike to harness the full power of pioneering-edge technologies that support the security industry’s core mission of protecting people and property. Security partners are not just providers of security solutions; they are trusted advisors who are invested in the success and well-being of their clients. 

The average business owner or investor has some kind of security precaution in place, especially in the after-hours when there are fewer deterrents to inhibit criminal activity. Security guards, video surveillance systems, motion sensor lights, or even just fake cameras placed around the property are some of the common options people choose.  Future of overnight security Smart business owners are starting to realise, however, that some of these traditional security measures are becoming antiquated and no longer cutting. The now and future of overnight security is in remote guarding. Pioneered by companies like Los Angeles-based Elite Interactive Solutions, which was founded back in 2007, remote guarding is revolutionising the overnight security business. Minimising criminal activity Remote guarding is fast becoming the most popular choice among commercial end-user property owners Remote guarding utilises a combination of cutting-edge technology, “digital guards,” highly trained security agents, and local law enforcement if and when necessary to minimise the potential of criminal activity. For those adequately enlightened to its overwhelmingly impressive crime prevention capabilities, remote guarding is fast becoming the most popular choice among commercial end-user property owners to secure and protect their investments. What Is remote guarding?  Remote guarding is a revolutionary concept and increasing trend in security systems that utilises a combination of methods to effectively analyse potential threats to property. Cameras and/or other monitoring devices running highly advanced algorithmic software are installed in strategic areas or vulnerable places onsite and remotely located security agents are immediately notified of any activity within a designated perimeter of the property. A blend of AI, cybersecurity, and video analytics When properly deployed by an expert provider, the technology stack includes a proprietary blend of video analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and more. Done right, “noise” is effectively filtered out, allowing agents to act on legitimate alerts and achieve zero false alarms communicated to first responders. Today, there are a lot of terms and descriptions tossed around about remote guarding, remote video, virtual guarding, etc., but those attributes must be present to represent the true definition of the offering and its many virtues. Realtime situational awareness Many systems have a two-way speaker that allows the security agent to give a verbal warning When specially trained security agents are alerted to trespassers, possible intruders, or other suspicious activity, they analyse the situation in real-time and determine the necessary level of action. Many systems have a two-way speaker that allows the security agent to give a verbal warning, known as a voice-down, to the individual(s) that they are being watched. Most perpetrators, often believing the response is emanating directly from security personnel on the property itself rather than from a remote command centre, flee immediately. However, if the threat persists, the security agent enlists local law enforcement to get on the scene.  Customised remote guarding When properly deployed, remote guarding systems are also customised to specific properties. A team of consultants visits the client’s property to evaluate its vulnerabilities and where to best place cameras and/or other monitoring devices for system efficacy. Traditional security shortfalls  According to Keith Bushey, a retired commander for the Los Angeles Police Department, there is much frustration between law enforcement officers and potential victims of crime due to the historically unreliable performance of traditional burglar alarm systems and central monitoring stations. He states about 90% of security-related calls are false alarms, a problem that has been well-documented through the years. Onsite challenges When a legitimate emergency does occur, the perpetrators have often already done their damage When a legitimate emergency does occur, the perpetrators have often already done their damage and/or escaped by the time law enforcement arrives.  Onsite security guards are not the remedy either as they bring their own set of issues and challenges.  Unexpected costs Traditional security systems can also have unexpected costs. The cost is not only in the security guards’ paycheck or the cost of the equipment itself. The cost comes when an actual incident occurs. In worst-case scenarios, the security guard(s) are injured, the business suffers inventory loss, and/or damage is sustained to the property.  The medical and other costs for the security guard(s), the loss of inventory, property damage, deployment of law enforcement resources, and possible fallout of legal expenses all add up. Even in the best-case scenario, false alarm expenses incur if law enforcement is dispatched. These, among many others, are some of the primary issues that remote guarding resoundingly answers as a superior alternative. A bounty of benefits Remote guarding systems have been proven to cut costs and be more effective than traditional security systems. Even though the monthly monitoring costs of remote guarding are significantly higher than traditional intrusion detection system monitoring, the much higher effectiveness in crime reduction, elimination of false alarms, and augmenting or replacement of manned guards result in a substantially higher return on investment (ROI) to the end user. Easy tracking of threats The security cameras already have their image captured on record, making them easier to track down For example, case studies have demonstrated reduced security costs for clients by 60%, on average. These reductions have come from the costs of security staff, inventory, or property loss, plus saving money on insurance premiums and deductibles. The nature of remote guarding reduces the risk and costs of false alarms, with professional security agents able to determine an actual threat before law enforcement is called. In a rare instance when a perpetrator escapes before law enforcement arrives or can detain the individual(s), the security cameras already have their image captured on record, making them easier to track down and identify. Reduction of false alarms The significant reduction in false alarms is greatly appreciated by law enforcement, as it allows them to focus on real emergencies or crises. Better relationships are also developed between clients and law enforcement, as remote guarding systems are highly reliable in providing accurate and real-time information to officers as they approach the scene. In short, it assists law enforcement in doing their job more effectively, as well as more safely thanks to having eyewitness information before engaging in an active crime scene.  Partnership When you combine the decreased cost with the increased efficiency and success rate, it is easy to see why many commercial end-user property owners across the country are making the shift to remote guarding. It’s also an outstanding opportunity for professional security dealers and integrators to partner with a remote guarding services provider to bring a superior solution to their end customers and pick up a recurring monthly revenue stream in the process.