Paul Bessant gets the inside scoop on Chris Burr’s incredible journey from the Glasgow turnstiles to the G4S top table…
This week on the Retail Risk – Podcast, Paul sits down with Chris Burr, Managing Director at G4S Events and TSS. Yes, really – two hats, one head (whether that means he’s exceptionally popular or someone wants him firmly chained to his desk remains up for debate!)
Chris’s story is a true front-line to boardroom journey. When his aspiration of becoming a professional footballer didn’t quite make the cut, he found another way into the world of sport by becoming a Spectator Safety Steward at Glasgow Rangers… a baptism of fire by anyone’s standards!
It was there that Chris caught the bug for security and event management, thriving in high-pressure environments and fast-paced decision-making. From football grounds to major festivals and large-scale events, his career gathered momentum, eventually leading him to an Operations Manager role at G4S – and he hasn’t looked back since.
Now, with more than two decades of experience behind him, Chris reflects on his journey at G4S and what his day-to-day really looks like as Managing Director. Known for his high-energy, hands-on leadership style, he shares why he prefers being out with teams on the ground, staying visible, meeting customers, and asking the awkward questions. “The days I love the most are the days I don’t open the laptop,” he says.
Chris also dives into what he sees as the number one challenge for LP and Security in retail: an industry full of data and good intentions, but still struggling to join all the dots. He talks openly about the importance of collaboration, the role of AI and intelligent automation in the future of TSS, and what attendees can expect when the business returns to Retail Risk this year.
Along the way, Chris shares the worst piece of advice he’s ever been given (spoiler: “things will always work out” doesn’t get his vote), and the conversation takes a lighter detour into his coffee order logic, which in Scotland apparently hinges on whether or not it’s a balmy nine degrees!