Irvine, CA – Jordan Avnaim has been named Global Chief Information Security Officer for Irvine-based Allied Universal, a role that places him in charge of protecting the company’s global cybersecurity strategy and operations. The appointment, announced on August 19, tasks Avnaim with securing the sprawling digital infrastructure supporting Allied Universal's 800,000 employees worldwide.
Allied Universal, a company with approximately $23 billion in annual revenue, is primarily known for its physical security services. However, Chairman and Chief Executive Steve Jones has emphasized a strategic shift towards technology, which includes integrating robots for patrol and utilizing social media monitoring to alert clients about potential events near their businesses.
Jones’ long-term vision is to position Allied Universal as a leader in the security technology market. This strategy has been supported by several acquisitions, including Securadyne Systems in 2019 for systems integration and AI-driven security tools, Attenti Group in 2022 for electronic monitoring technology, and Unified Command in 2024 for event surveillance video capabilities.
In his new position, Avnaim will lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive, risk-based cybersecurity program. This program is designed to protect Allied Universal’s employees, systems, data, and technology platforms against evolving cyber threats. He will also manage the company’s cybersecurity resources and teams, collaborating closely with technology, legal, operations, and business teams across more than 100 countries and territories where Allied Universal operates.
Avnaim stated upon his appointment that "Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility" requiring strong governance and collaboration throughout an organization. He expressed his commitment to working with colleagues globally to strengthen the company’s cybersecurity capabilities, protect critical assets, and support long-term growth. Steve Jones noted that Avnaim’s leadership is expected to enhance the company’s cyber resilience while fostering innovation and responsible growth.
Bringing over 20 years of experience to the role, Avnaim has a background in developing and leading cybersecurity, technology risk, and regulatory compliance programs for large, complex global organizations. His experience includes advising boards and executive leadership teams, strengthening enterprise security capabilities, and building high-performing teams focused on safeguarding critical infrastructure, sensitive information, and business operations.
Before joining Allied Universal, Avnaim served as chief information security officer at Hyundai AutoEver America and at Entrust Corp. At Entrust, he managed the global information security program across more than 150 countries, 40 offices, and 20 data centers. Avnaim holds a Master of Engineering in management of technology with an emphasis in information security and risk management, as well as a Bachelor of Engineering in computer engineering and mathematics, both from Vanderbilt University.
Allied Universal maintains a significant global presence, operating in over 100 countries and territories. The company is recognized as the third-largest private employer in North America and the seventh largest worldwide, partnering with more than 400 of the Fortune 500 companies.
