Jack Parnell
Jack Parnell is a senior security professional with over 30 years’ experience in high-risk, conflict, and post-conflict environments, specialising in security risk management, counterterrorism, close protection, and crisis response.
A former UK Commando and Special Forces operator, he joined the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) as an Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) specialist, deploying across the Balkans, Africa, and Afghanistan both before and after 9/11. During this time, he established the organisation’s first dedicated security function.
He later served with the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), including as Chief of Security Operations in Iraq following the Baghdad attack, where he established the UN’s first Protective Security Detail (PSD). He also held the role of Regional Security Advisor for Asia-Pacific, based in Bangkok.
He was subsequently seconded to the UK’s Metropolitan Police Service, Royalty and Specialist Protection Command (SO1), serving as Security Coordinator for former Prime Minister Tony Blair in the Near East, based in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.
Returning to the UN, Jack deployed globally on emergency missions as a Security Forces Liaison Officer (SFLO) and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) specialist. His work included operations in the ISIS-affected Liptako-Gourma region (Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso), as well as in Ukraine and very recently to Gaza with the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Jack is highly trained in hostage negotiation (UN, UK, and FBI), crisis management, and counterterrorism, and has delivered specialist training internationally. He holds an MSc in Resilience & Security Sector Management from the UK Defence Academy (Cranfield University), along with additional qualifications in Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research from Harvard University. He also holds professional certifications from the UK Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) and the Home Office Emergency Planning College (Easingwold).