Operations at Crowdguard
If you have ever wondered how Crowdguard gets the right kit to the right place when it’s needed, the answer isn’t just trucks and timelines. It’s people. Behind every deployment is an operations team that pulls together, adapts fast, and makes sure UK events are safe and secure.
Heading up that effort is Andy Ferris, Operations Manager, who has been with Crowdguard since its early days. For him, operations are more than logistics, it’s about passion and teamwork.
“We’re not just a team. We always say we’re a family. Everyone mucks in – there’s no hierarchy, no fuss, we just get on with it and get the job done.”
More Than Logistics
The operations remit typically involves planning transport, pulling the right kit from the yard, making sure RAMS is completed and site details are confirmed. But at Crowdguard, it also means people from across the business stepping in wherever needed to get things done on time, and to the highest standard.
When demand spikes, Andy doesn’t just rely on his ops team. Colleagues from sales and management all take on deployments. Everyone understands the importance of what we are delivering to our clients, and everyone plays their part.
“Because we’ve been that busy, everybody’s been hands on deck. Jack’s been on deployments, Mike’s been on deployments, even Iain has gone out when we’ve needed him.”
A Culture That Grows Its Own
The ‘family feeling’ runs right through the business. Andy points to Cameron, who first came to help out in the yard at just 14 years old. He quickly became an important part of the team, learning the ropes and building trust long before officially starting his role this year.
That willingness to encourage and invest in people is what makes Crowdguard different. We are creating a culture where everyone feels part of the mission, and everyone resonates with our ethos of protecting people and preserving the events we as a community value so much.
Building Confidence in the Field
With growth has come new faces. Rico and PJ – the latest additions to the operations team – have gotten straight into the project work, with support from the wider team every step of the way. Andy sees his role not just as running operations, but as helping new team members find their feet quickly.
“They’ve literally just come in and been thrown in the deep end to get jobs done. But we all work together to get them settled, because the culture here is about helping each other.”
Driven by Purpose
What stands out in talking to Andy is how much he cares. He takes it personally when things don’t go perfectly, like a rare delay caused by a blowout on a vehicle.
“I’ve got Crowdguard running through my veins. I work here as if it’s my company. If something goes wrong, it really gets to me, because I want every job done properly, the stakes are high.”
For him, the best result is when nothing happens at all.
“People sometimes say HVM is a waste of money if nothing happens. But that’s exactly what we want. If the barriers are in place and no one gets hurt, then they’ve done their job. You can’t put a price on life.”
Ready for Anything
Of course, the practical side still matters. Crowdguard’s fleet of trucks, jeeps and certified kit means the operations team can mobilise quickly. Jobs change at short notice, but through teamwork and Andy’s determination, clients always get what they need.
Every job is different, and that’s exactly how Andy likes it.
“It’s busy, it changes all the time, but that’s what makes it interesting. I love the job, and I love knowing we’re making a difference.”
Let’s Talk About Your Next Project
If you have an upcoming event or project and want to discuss the best security solutions for your site, get in touch with the Crowdguard team. We can help you assess the risks, choose the right equipment, and deliver a plan that works for you. Contact Us.