Showsec has been part of the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) security operation since 2005, supporting the event as it has moved between host cities across Europe.

Every EMA presents a different set of challenges. The event combines a live global television broadcast, red carpet arrivals, artist movements, VIP guests, media activity and complex production requirements, often within venues that have been completely transformed from their usual purpose.

Our Co-CEO, Simon Battersby, has led the security operation for every EMA since 2005. Working closely with MTV and Paramount, Simon oversees security planning for each event, supported by an experienced management team, who assist with venue planning, resource deployment and liaison with local partners.

When the EMAs were held in Manchester in 2024, Showsec provided a core team of 21 security consultants alongside more than 200 stewards and SIA-licensed security professionals. Our teams managed red carpet operations, artist dressing rooms, accreditation-controlled areas and backstage spaces at the Manchester Tennis and Football Centre on the Etihad Campus.

Planning starts months before the event and involves close working with venues, police, local authorities, production teams, airports and security suppliers. Every detail, from artist arrivals and accreditation systems to access control and venue security, must work around the fixed timings of a live international broadcast.

Over the years, Showsec has also helped improve how access is managed at the event. As the popularity of the EMAs grew, organisers faced increasing numbers of people attempting to gain entry using fake tickets and credentials. Working with Paramount, our team helped introduce an RFID accreditation system that created multiple access zones and allowed passes to be verified before entry. The system remains a key part of the event’s security arrangements today.

Having supported the MTV EMAs for more than 20 years, Showsec has built extensive experience of delivering the event in different countries, venues and operating environments. Whether advising on security planning, managing accreditation, overseeing artist areas or leading the wider security operation, our role is to help create an event that runs safely, smoothly and on schedule for organisers, performers, partners and audiences around the world.