Brian Harrell, CPP

Director, Security and Risk Management
Energy Practice
Navigant

Brian Harrell, CPP is the Director of Security and Risk Management within Navigant's Energy Practice, providing energy companies with expert consultation on risk mitigation, protective measures, and compliance guidance. Prior to Navigant, Brian was the Director of the NERC Electricity Sector Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ES-ISAC) and was charged with leading NERC's efforts to provide timely threat and risk information to over 1900 bulk power system owners/operators and government stakeholders. In addition, Brian was a subject matter expert and Standard Drafting Team member for the NERC CIP-014 physical security standard. Brian led many key initiatives at NERC including the creation of the Grid Security Exercise (GridEx), Critical Infrastructure Protection Committee (CIPC) physical security guidance documents, and helped position NERC as a leader in grid security. During Brian's time at NERC, he was also the Director of Critical Infrastructure Protection Programs, where he led CIP compliance staff, the Critical Infrastructure Protection Committee, security training, and physical security outreach. Prior to NERC, Brian was the CIP Manager for the SERC Reliability Corporation, where he oversaw security related matters for the region. Before coming to the electricity sector, Brian was the Sector Security Specialist for the Infrastructure Security Compliance Division at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Brian specialized in securing high risk chemical facilities and Continuity of Operations (COOP) for DHS. Brian also served in the US Marine Corps as an Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection Instructor providing threat assessments for DOD military installations, small-arms expertise, and security force management.

Brian has received many accolades for his work including awards from CSO Magazine and the 2014 GovSec "Gov30" award, which recognized leaders for their contributions to the security community. Brian has an MA from Central Michigan University and Pennsylvania State University, and a BA from Hawaii Pacific University. He is also board certified in security management.