Business
Applied Digital Strengthens Security Leadership with Appointment of Industry Veteran Gary Smith
With Over Four Decades of Expertise, Smith to Lead Physical Security Innovation and Enhance the Protection and Integrity of Advanced Digital Infrastructure
About this update from Applied Digital Corporation
[{"type":"text","content":"With Over Four Decades of Expertise, Smith to Lead Physical Security Innovation and Enhance the Protection and Integrity of Advanced Digital Infrastructure\nDALLAS, Aug. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Applied Digital Corporation (Nasdaq: APLD) (“Applied Digital” or the “Company”), a designer, builder, and operator of next-generation digital infrastructure designed for High-Performance Computing (HPC) applications, today announced the appointment of Gary Smith as its new Senior Director of Physical Security. Smith has over 40 years of experience in law enforcement and corporate security and is expected to play a pivotal role in the ongoing safety and integrity of Applied Digital’s facilities. In this role, Smith will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of physical safety at Applied Digital, including security services, access control, and systems technology. Applied Digital 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. 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. During his tenure, Smith was instrumental in managing physical security and business continuity across Digital Realty’s portfolio, including process standardization, technical and systems integration, and compliance. “We are excited to welcome Gary to our team,” said Wes Cummins, CEO of Applied Digital. “We believe his 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.” Smith began his career in law enforcement with the DeKalb County (GA) Police Department, 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, whe...