Dallas-based Applied Digital Corp. has appointed Gary Smith as its new senior director of physical security. He brings with him more than 40 years’ experience in law enforcement and corporate security, the company said.
Applied Digital is a designer, builder, and operator of next-generation digital infrastructure designed for High-Performance Computing (HPC) applications.
CEO Wes Cummins said Smith’s “extensive experience in security services, track record of excellence in overseeing critical safety operations, and familiarity with the data center industry will make him an invaluable addition to our team.:
“We expect that Gary’s contributions will be essential in further reinforcing our safety measures and maintaining the highest standards of protection and reliability,” Cummins added in a statement.
In this role, Smith will oversee all aspects of physical safety at Applied Digital, including security services, access control, and systems technology. Applied Digital said it believes that Smith’s extensive experience in security management will enhance the company’s existing safety measures and support its continued commitment to providing secure and reliable infrastructure solutions.
Joins Applied Digital from Digital Realty
Smith joins Applied Digital from Digital Realty, one of the world’s largest data center REITs, where he started as director of security in 2012, later advancing to the role of vice president of portfolio security, compliance, and business continuity. While there, Smith was instrumental in managing physical security and business continuity across Digital Realty’s portfolio, including process standardization, technical and systems integration, and compliance.
Smith began his career in law enforcement with the DeKalb County Police Department in Georgia, serving as a uniformed patrol officer, homicide investigator, and Intelligence Unit Investigator. He was recognized as Police Officer of the Year in 1981. Transitioning to the private sector in 1983, Smith joined IBM Security, where he held various management and senior staff roles, culminating in his position as senior security manager for Security Systems Strategy and Technical Delivery.
“I’m honored to join Applied Digital and contribute to its mission of advancing cutting-edge digital infrastructure,” Smith said. “I believe the team’s commitment to innovation and excellence perfectly aligns with my professional values, and I look forward to leveraging my professional experience to strengthen the Company’s physical safety operations and ensure that Applied Digital meets the highest standards of protection and reliability.”
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