Our Team - EPM Global

Damian Zieliński

Founder & Partner,CEO

With over 15 years of security expertise, Damian excels in developing and implementing strategic security plans. He has specialized knowledge in counter-terrorism and conflict management, gained through advanced instructor programs. Damian has established a vast global network by delivering specialized training to both private and governmental sectors. Damian collaborates with security and management teams worldwide and has coordinated security operations in over 40 countries, including many hostile environments. He is a trusted provider of private security advice with extensive experience working with high-net-worth families.

John Heron

Chief Hostile Environments and Media Consultant

John served 16 years in 23 SAS, with operational deployments worldwide, retiring from the services as a Warrant Officer in the regiment’s training wing. He then delivered close protection and security services in Iraq, including security consultancy for the British Embassy in Baghdad. John has also been a security advisor for NGOs and press - including BBC, SKY NEWS, Channel 4, Channel 9, ITN, CBC, and ABC (Australia) – operating in high-risk locations, including Libya, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Mexico, Ukraine, Zambia, Mozambique, Senegal, and Hong Kong. John develops and implements risk mitigation strategies for our media and NGO clients in high-risk areas. He also directs our specialized training programs that enable individuals to operate safely and effectively in challenging environments. His comprehensive approach to risk mitigation involves reconnaissance, information analysis, and creating and implementing safety protocols, followed by post-mission analysis and advice. Since leaving Iraq, John has built a commendable career as a freelance safety advisor for the press and NGOs, undertaking assignments in high-risk locations such as Libya, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Mexico, Ukraine, Zambia, Mozambique, Senegal, and Hong Kong. He has worked extensively with leading news organizations including BBC, SKY NEWS, Channel 4, Channel 9, ITN, CBC, and ABC (Australia), focusing on supporting news crews in areas of elevated risk. His comprehensive approach to risk mitigation involves initial reconnaissance, drafting detailed reports, creating and implementing safety protocols, and providing post-mission analysis and advice.

Michael James

Partner

Michael, a former soldier in the 23 SAS and The British Parachute Regiment, has led and trained teams in some of the world’s most hostile environments. After retiring from the army, he transitioned into close protection, quickly becoming one of the country’s most valued operators. Michael has led teams and taken personal responsibility for the security of numerous A-list talents and Ultra-High-Net-Worth individuals. His dedication to protecting and inspiring others has equipped him with the skills, knowledge, and wisdom necessary to safeguard people, places, and resources in even the most challenging circumstances. With over 40 years of experience in both military and commercial security, Michael excels in formulating and executing security strategies, conducting surveillance, directing risk management policies, and coordinating day-to-day security operations. He is also adept at training others in security procedures. His ability to influence at a high level, drive change, and manage projects has been instrumental to his success throughout his security career.

Anemona Knut

Head of buissnes development

With an MA in Communications and an MBA graduate, Anemona has over 20 years of professional experience in media and luxury hospitality. She specializes in project management, organizational development, and people strategies. She honed her skills working in Australia, Poland, and the UK, as well as through project management in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the USA. Anemona oversees new initiatives and leads organizational development across all our operational areas.