057 - Protecting People, Not Just Products: Security at GEODIS

Craig Parker, Head of Supply Chain Security at GEODIS, oversees safety across a global logistics network. In this episode, he shares the real-world challenges of securing both people and products, from workplace violence and domestic threats to theft and brand protection. Craig unpacks why security is often invisible until the moment it matters most and how meaningful change usually follows tragedy. Whether you're in corporate security or just care about workplace safety, this conversation offers valuable insights on preparedness and the power of effective security partnerships.

Notes:

2:00 GEODIS overview: logistics, transportation, and freight forwarding

5:00 Partnership with Herring Technology

7:30 People are the top priority: access control, cameras, and more

11:45 Potential for active shooter events in the workplace & lessons from shooting survivors

13:30 Training staff is more critical than solely installing tech

16:10 Security's role: 89 days in the background, 1 day in the spotlight

20:19 Stolen products in the black market & the Tylenol murders: how tragedy shaped change

23:40 Brand protection and the impact of theft

27:15 Camera footage isn’t helpful without actionable follow-up

30:00 Deterrence > recovery: most stolen items don’t come back

31:55 Domestic issues spilling into the workplace

40:50 It’s not just a job. People’s lives are at stake.

43:50 Effective messaging: make it about your employee’s life as a whole, not just at work

45:30 Pay it forward with the work you do