17 Oct 2013
Howe brings more than 20 years of experience in homeland and aviation security, and media relations

VidSys, a leading provider of Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) software, recently announced the addition of Ellen Howe to its leadership team. Howe brings more than 20 years of experience in homeland and aviation security, strategic communications, media relations, crisis management and social media to her new role as vice president of marketing.

“We are delighted to welcome Ellen to our management team,” said Michael P. Jackson, CEO of VidSys. “Ellen brings extraordinary communication skills, an entrepreneur’s innovative spirit and deeply-rooted professionalism to help VidSys further accelerates our rapid global growth.”

Howe most recently served as Director of Business Development for L-3 Security & Detection Systems, where she was responsible for building new global business for air cargo security and managing federal sector relationships. From 2006 to 2009, Ellen served as Assistant Administrator for Strategic Communications & Public Affairs at the U.S. Transportation Security Administration. A member of the TSA executive management team, she was responsible for the agency’s communications strategy, led the public affairs office and served as TSA’s national spokesperson. Ellen notably led TSA outreach to the public and TSA employees following successful disruption of the transatlantic aviation liquid explosives terrorist plot in August 2006. 

“I am excited to join the team at VidSys. The open architecture software is truly a next generation homeland security solution,” Howe said. “The VidSys solution provides better situational awareness and leads to crucial resolution of security incidents.  It is enabling our customers to realise tangible cost efficiencies that are crucial to thriving in today’s tight budget environment.”

Howe is active in Women in Homeland Security and has served on the board of the Homeland Security Roundtable. In recent years she has engaged in international policy discussions on aviation security with global stakeholders including the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the International Air Transport Association.