David Lavery

Founder & President

Strategic Risk Advisor | Veteran | Humanitarian

About

David T. Lavery is the visionary Founder and President of Raven Rae Resilience (RRR), bringing over four decades of elite expertise in security risk management, crisis response, and strategic operations across some of the world’s most challenging environments.

 

A globally respected Business Entrepreneur and Strategic Risk Advisor, David has shaped the field of security consultancy through bold leadership and frontline experience—bridging military precision with humanitarian purpose.

Career Highlights

David’s operational leadership spans multiple continents and conflict zones, with key roles including:

  • Founder & President, Raven Rae Resilience (Canada, UAE, Kenya, Afghanistan)
  • General Manager, Amarante International – Afghanistan
  • Vice President, BMK AFG Engineering Inc. – specializing in blast mitigation
  • Business Development Manager, HART Security Ltd. – Singapore
  • Managing Director, O&R Raven Rae International – UAE
  • Senior Risk Consultant, Ukraine & Afghanistan missions

His work has helped international clients—including governments, NGOs, and private sector partners—navigate volatile environments, implement risk mitigation strategies, and evacuate personnel during emergencies, including the fall of Kabul in 2021.

Military Service

David served 23 distinguished years in the Canadian Armed Forces, with a record of excellence in:

  • Infantry & Canadian Airborne Regiment
  • Counter-Terrorist Hostage Rescue Unit – founding member
  • Surveillance & Reconnaissance
  • Executive Protection & Arctic Warfare
  • Advanced Survival Tactics & Combat Instruction

His leadership helped develop advanced training programs, shaped counter-terrorism doctrines, and prepared elite units for global deployment.

United Nations (2001–2009)

Following his military career, David joined the United Nations, serving in critical security and operational roles across high-risk missions:

  • Security Advisor, Field Security Coordinator, and Close Protection Manager
  • Established and led a 767-member UN Protection Unit
  • Oversaw security planning and training in:
    Afghanistan, Somalia, Kenya, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Eritrea

He played a central role in:

  • Emergency operations, including aviation crash recovery missions
  • Country-level threat assessments and budgetary management
  • Liaising with national governments, NGOs, and UN entities on security protocols

Certifications & Specializations

David has completed advanced training with elite North American institutions and holds professional designations in:

  • UN Security Training & Institutional Capacity Building
  • Personal Protection Specialization
  • Advanced Field Medical & Tactical Response
  • Maritime Security:
    • Company Security Officer (CSO)
    • Ship Security Officer (SSO)
    • Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)
    • ISPS (International Ship & Port Facility Security) Certified

Humanitarian & Community Leadership

David’s dedication to service extends beyond the field. His humanitarian and public engagement initiatives include:

  • Founder & Chair, Annual Polar Bear Plunge – Perth, Ontario
  • Organizer, Dog Trek 1997–98 – cancer fundraising expedition
  • Board Member, Crime Stoppers – Pembroke, Ontario
  • Lead supporter of Afghan families, youth, and educational initiatives
  • Champion for community resilience, veterans’ causes, and children’s outreach

Honours & Recognition

  • Order of Military Merit – Awarded for exceptional service and leadership in the Canadian Armed Forces
  • Commendations for global humanitarian efforts and crisis response coordination
  • Recognized leader in international security consultancy

“Security is more than protocols—it’s about people, purpose, and preparedness. True resilience is built through trust, planning, and action.”

— David Lavery

Reach Out

Raven Rae Resilience (RRR) provides trusted, mission-ready solutions in risk management & mitigation, crisis response, all-inclusive support, and security & safety management. Our services are tailored for a broad range of actors operating in complex environments, including government agencies, diplomatic missions, NGOs, humanitarian organizations, intergovernmental bodies, development banks, private sector contractors, media outlets, research institutions, and academic programs with international footprints. Whether you’re preparing for deployment, managing operational risk, or enhancing organizational resilience, RRR stands ready to support your mission with expertise and discretion.

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