Richard Rands is a specialist in strategic planning, development, and the execution of operations and training for international customers. Used to working internationally at the highest levels, with extensive experience in defense and security development programs in Africa and the Middle East, Richard has worked in an advisory capacity for a number of military and security forces. Richard founded Burton Rands Associates in 2006 and has been President and CEO ever since. As well as continuing to provide consulting services, Richard focuses on company strategy, business development and financial management. A former Managing Director of Kroll Security International’s worldwide operations, Richard was responsible for over $200m of security programs in many parts of the world including Iraq and Afghanistan. As a military officer, Richard served with UK, US and Omani forces in both command and staff appointments, over a period of 19 years.

Nicola Lowther is an expert in international security issues, terrorism and issues affecting the stability of emerging states. Her strong academic background has been complemented by 15 years of management experience in security, risk management and intelligence. She has been based in the US, UK and Russia and spent considerable time on projects in East Africa and South-East Asia. Nicola joined the company in 2007 and established Burton Rands’ US entity in Washington DC. She now oversees business development, US Government liaison, contracts and administration. Nicola conducts principle client interface and serves as a conduit for ensuring a smooth information flow between clients and current projects. Nicola has worked with numerous international security and risk management firms including International Risk and Information Services (IRIS), Armor Group, Kroll and Olive Group.

Russell Bishop is an expert in security operations management, training and logistics with over 30 years of military and commercial experience, mostly in Africa and the Middle East. Russ has designed and overseen the implementation of military and security training programs, security projects and remote area logistics operations for numerous government and private sector clients. Russ joined the company in 2006 and initially led Burton Rands’ training and development team in Southern Sudan before assuming operational responsibility for all projects throughout Africa. A former Iraq Country Manager for Kroll Security International, Russ was responsible for overseeing six major US government sponsored security projects. As a military officer, he served for 27 years in many theatres around the world including Europe, South Atlantic (Falkland’s campaign 1982), South-East Asia, Middle East and Northern Ireland. Russ was awarded the MBE by HM The Queen in 1996.