Meet Our Team.

Welcome to The Squad, where experience, expertise, and a commitment to safety converge to offer unparalleled solutions in security and protection. Founded and led by a dynamic management team comprising a former Police Officer, retired Assistant Chief Constable, and retired Firearms Officer, The Squad embodies a fusion of decades of frontline law enforcement experience. With a steadfast dedication to safeguarding our Protectors and helping retired Emergency Services workers, our team brings a unique blend of skills honed through years of service in the field. Join us as we redefine standards and provide innovative strategies tailored to meet specific needs. At The Squad, your safety is our priority.

Adam Conn

Founder

As the founder of The Squad, I leverage my 22 years of experience in Security and Emergency services to provide advanced safety products and services to clients who value reliability, innovation, and excellence. I launched The Squad in January 2023 with a vision to bridge the gap between cutting-edge safety solutions and the individuals who protect their communities.

My background as a Police Officer, a security leader, and a strategic advisor for ambulance companies gives me a unique perspective and insight into the challenges and opportunities in the safety industry. I use my extensive network and knowledge to source, develop, and deliver safety products and personnel from emergency services backgrounds, tailored to the specific needs and goals of each client. I am passionate about creating a culture of trust, collaboration, and excellence within my team and with my partners, and I am always looking for new ways to learn, grow, and improve. I am proud to lead The Squad, a company that is dedicated to making the world a safer place and supporting our Retired Heroes.

Matthew Nicholls

CEO

Matt joined Hertfordshire Constabulary in 2001 as Duty Inspector in Watford. Prior to this, Matt was an officer with the Metropolitan Police for 9 years, carrying out a variety of different Uniform and Detective roles, most notably within the Professional Standards Department.

During his time with Hertfordshire Constabulary, Matt undertook a wide range of roles including Staff Officer to the Chief Constable, CSP Watford Chief Inspector, Corporate Services Superintendent and Local Policing Command Chief Superintendent.

Matt led the police response to the COVID-19 pandemic in Hertfordshire as well as being the Head of Public Contact for the Force. He has been a champion for the LGBT+ community and for the Police Superintendent’s Association and was commended by the Association for his work as Chair of the Hertfordshire and regional branch whilst sitting on the National Executive Committee for over six years.

In May 2021, Matt was promoted to Assistant Chief Constable for Local Policing, Safeguarding and Serious Crime Command. He was both an experienced Gold Public Order and Firearms Commander, having managed high profile and complex firearms deployments, large scale public safety events and just prior to leaving policing challenging protest activity with Extinction Rebellion and Insulate Britain.

Simon Thompson

COO

Simon Thompson retired from the Metropolitan Police Service in 2011 after dedicating 30 years of service to law enforcement. Throughout his esteemed career, Simon served in various capacities, spending eleven years in the Mounted Branch and the last thirteen as an Operational Armed Response Officer in the Met’s prestigious Firearms Department, CO19. In this role, he adeptly handled both spontaneous and pre-planned firearms incidents, including involvement in covert operations alongside the Central Robbery Squad.

In his latter years within the force, Simon took on the role of Senior Firearms and Explosives Licensing Officer for North West London, showcasing his expertise in regulatory compliance and safety protocols.

Following his retirement, Simon chose to settle in Malvern, where he transitioned into the realm of firearms services. As a Registered Firearms Dealer, he provides specialised services as a qualified shooting instructor, catering primarily to high-net-worth overseas clients visiting the UK. Notably, Simon possesses rare authorisation from the Home Office to handle prohibited weapons, showcasing his exceptional trustworthiness and proficiency in handling "especially dangerous" items across all categories.

Simon is also licensed to import and export all types of weapons along with holding an individual trade control licence (arms brokering).

Simon's extensive experience and profound understanding of firearms operations and legislation make him a valuable addition to "The Squad’s" management team. He brings a wealth of knowledge relating to operational firearms use, as well as comprehensive insight into the legal framework surrounding possession and utilisation.