Brant Arnold-Smith | Metro Vancouver
Conference Session
Behind the Firewall: Lessons from a Major Ransomware Attack on a Critical Infrastructure Organization
In October 2022, the Metro Vancouver Regional District experienced a cyber security incident that was quickly contained through immediate actions like isolating affected systems, conducting forensic analysis and engaging law enforcement.
The response involved collaboration between various departments and agencies, ensuring a comprehensive approach to managing the incident. Recovery efforts focused on restoring normal operations and enhancing cyber security measures. This incident underscored the importance of proactive measures and a coordinated response to protect critical infrastructure and services.
Brant Arnold-Smith
Division Manager, Protective Services & Emergency Management Metro Vancouver
Brant Arnold-Smith is a seasoned leader in public safety and emergency management, with over two decades of leadership in emergency management, critical infrastructure protection, and law enforcement.
At Metro Vancouver, Brant oversees strategic planning, operational readiness, and emergency response coordination for the regional district that provides essential services—drinking water, wastewater treatment, solid waste management, 9-1-1 Call Answer Service/Next Generation 9-1-1, and much more—to over 3 million people in Canada’s third largest metropolitan centre. His role includes leading organization-wide emergency planning, directing protective services programs for elected officials and critical infrastructure, and serving as Emergency Operations Centre Director.
A strong advocate for interagency collaboration, Brant works closely with police agencies and organizations such as the Integrated Partnership for Regional Emergency Management, the BC Ministry of Emergency Management & Climate Readiness, federal partners, and First Nations to ensure unified response and compliance with emergency legislation.
Brant previously served in operational leadership roles at Victoria International Airport and Vancouver International Airport, where he implemented award-winning emergency protocols and innovative public safety strategies. His early career included distinguished service with the Vancouver Police Department, where he developed his foundation in incident response, and interdepartmental coordination—skills that continue to shape his holistic approach to public safety.
He holds a Bachelors Degree in Law Enforcement Studies from the Justice Institute of B.C., and is pursuing his Masters Degree in Disaster & Emergency Management from Royal Roads University.
Brant is known for his steady hands-on leadership, strategic thinking, commitment to public safety and building resilient organizations and communities.