SnapAV expands security focus, adds industry veterans

CHARLOTTE, N.C.—SnapAV, a manufacturer and self-distributor of technologies for residential and commercial integrators, increases security business with four new hires.

There is a common area of dealers that do both AV work and security, Clint Choate, SnapAV's recently hired market director for the company's Security Channel, told Security Systems News. SnapAV has been working over the past year to make a more concerted effort around the security space, he said.

“While the technology can be similar skillsets, we know that the security industry operates completely different in the sense that they have multiple offices, multiple techs and the pain points are different,” Choate said. “Snap recognizes that we have to have industry experts. So, they went out and brought in people that had specific security experience, or specific security networking, and knowledge and background.”

Choate most recently worked as the vice president of sales and marketing, North America, for Optex. He brings a total of 25 years of experience sensor manufacturing, dealer programs and integration.

In addition to Choate, the company hired Shannon Murphy, who was formerly vice president of sales and marketing for the Electronic Security Association, as a national accounts manager for security and IT clients at SnapAV.

Bill Reimer joined the company through Visualint and is now the business development manager for the security channel.

Additionally, Sean Dubose, who ran Tyco Integrated Security Monitoring call centers and field dispatch teams, is taking on a supervisory role in SnapAV's customer care team as part of this effort, the company said.

SnapAV has nine different brands, including for AV solutions, cameras and video analytics, among other offerings. A big product for the company is its OvrC platform, a cloud-based offering that allows for remote servicing and connectivity, Choate said.

John Heyman, SnapAV's CEO, said in the announcement: “More and more homes and businesses increasingly have more technology for purposes of entertainment, safety, and security and other mission critical tasks such as enabling the home office. While DIY will play a prominent role in the adoption of these technologies, these homeowners and small businesses will turn to professionals to ensure these products work reliably and seamlessly. There are hundreds of thousands of trained professionals in the security industry who have the strength, skill set and experience to fill increasing demand in the marketplace and to become a trusted advisor for homeowners and small businesses looking to redefine what a safe, secure, and fun establishment can be.”