Christopher McDaniel

Christopher McDaniel is a highly experienced safety and security professional with over 30 years of expertise in law enforcement, security operations, and administration. He currently serves as the Safety and Security Director at Artis—Naples, where he oversees comprehensive safety initiatives for one of Florida’s premier cultural and performing arts venues.

Christopher began his law enforcement career at the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office in North Carolina, where he rose through the ranks to Captain during a distinguished 20-year tenure. His leadership included overseeing detention operations, accreditation, and technology modernization projects. Following his time at Mecklenburg, Christopher served as Captain and Detention Administrator for the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office, where he further demonstrated his commitment to operational excellence and community impact.

Beyond his law enforcement roles, Christopher has contributed to public safety in various capacities, including serving as an adjunct instructor at Stanly Community College, where he shared his expertise in law enforcement training. His professional journey also includes roles in physical security at NeoGenomics Laboratories and public safety at Lee Health, further broadening his experience in corporate and healthcare environments.

Christopher’s dedication to making a difference has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Everyday Hero Award from the Officer Jeff Shelton Memorial Foundation, which honors the officer in Stanly County who has made the most significant impact on their community. He also received the Outstanding Alumnus Award from Stanly Community College, underscoring his lasting contributions to public safety and education.

Christopher holds dual master’s degrees: a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University and a Master of Science in Information Technology with a focus on Cybersecurity from Capella University. He also earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Pfeiffer University, graduating summa cum laude. His academic achievements reflect his commitment to continuous learning and excellence, with recognition such as the Presidential Member designation from the National Society of Leadership and Success.

At Artis—Naples, Christopher applies his extensive expertise to foster a safe and welcoming environment for patrons, staff, and performers alike, ensuring that safety and security are seamlessly integrated into the organization’s operations.