We invite you to join us for the most anticipated event in the executive protection industry – the Close Protection Conference 2023. Hosted by the International Protective Security Board (IPSB), a dedicated volunteer organization deeply committed to advancing the industry, this conference stands as a cornerstone of professional development, unparalleled networking opportunities, and invaluable industry insights.
The Close Protection Conference is more than just an event; it is a convergence of thought leaders, experts, and practitioners in the executive protection and security field. For years, it has been the go-to platform for professionals seeking to broaden their horizons, enhance their skills, and stay at the forefront of industry developments.
CPC 2023 Date and Location
Mark your calendars for December 6 – 8, 2023, as we gather at the Toyota Music Factory in the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas. This central location provides the ideal backdrop for three days of immersive learning and collaboration. At the heart of the Close Protection Conference is the mission to elevate executive protection professional standards, opportunities, and industry insights.
The CPC a unique platform for professional development, whether you’re a seasoned service provider or an aspiring EP professional. Meet and learn from renowned experts, leaders, and practitioners in the field of protective security. A dynamic lineup of speakers and panelists are all industry leaders who share a commitment to the industry’s growth.
To get a sneak peek at what the Close Protection Conference has in store, explore our detailed agenda on the Agenda Page. You’ll find a comprehensive list of sessions, topics, and speakers, ensuring there’s something for everyone interested in security.
Why Attend the Close Protection Conference 2023?
In order to share experiences, gain new perspectives, and build valuable relationships. The conference features a diverse range of educational panels that delve into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in security. Hear from industry thought leaders who will share their knowledge and inspire you to excel in your career.
The Close Protection Conference 2023 is your opportunity to be a part of an event that shapes the future of the security industry. Register now to secure your spot at this unparalleled educational and networking experience. We look forward to seeing you to Dallas in December!
In recent years, the collaboration between private security suppliers and local law enforcement has seen a significant increasing trend, driven by various motivations. Many countries around the world consider the industry to be a “fourth” emergency service. Majority of the work being done is around technology and the technology being designed which links people to law enforcement. We now are seeing a trend in government run justice departments using private security contractors to run prisons and other forms of security. In the U.S, approximately 8.2% of prisons are privately run. Globally there are privately run prisons in the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, and other places.
In April 2023, TIME magazine published a series of articles about the increase in private security replacing local police in some communities where frontline police numbers had dropped by 10%. This is a global issue. The International Association of Chiefs of Police released an eight-page document outlining a recruitment crisis. 78% of agencies reported having difficulty in recruiting, 65% reported having too few candidates.
A great example in private and government law enforcement collaboration is when there are large sporting or VIP events. You will see Police working with private security in creating a layered security plan in preventing criminal activity and types of response to incidents.
Motivations for Collaboration in Private Security
A collaboration between security suppliers and local law enforcement is often motivated by a combination of factors. These may include resource augmentation. Private security firms can provide additional peoplepower, expertise, and specialised skills that complement agencies, helping to bridge gaps in resources and personnel.
Rapid Response
Private security firms can offer quick response times and flexibility, making them valuable partners in emergency situations or when additional support is needed at short notice.
Training and Skill Transfer
The global close protection industry has witnessed a transfer of training and skills between security firms and government agencies.
We often see this type of collaboration when private security trainers who are often former government security operators, are invited back to provide training and skill development to government security personal.
An example of this in New Zealand is when I invited Dr Itay Gil to run training in unarmed close protection. With my time in Diplomatic Protection for the New Zealand Police, I identified a skill shortage in unarmed combat training. The current training was dated, and training techniques required improvements. As close protection operators, you often find yourself travelling a lot and you will spend numerous hours on a commercial aircraft with VIPs. Yet, very little time was spent on training in an aircraft when a protection officer is at their most vulnerable, trying to work in a closed space with no possibility of extra support or ability to escape form an attack.
I hired an aircraft used by an airline training school for a full day workshop for Dr Itay Gil to take students from the industry and government agencies through unarmed combat skills on an aircraft. They learned how to move in their seats, use the small space to their advantage and how many items on an aircraft can be easily used as a weapon. This is a great example of private and government convergence in physical security and close protection.
Public Perception and Accountability
There are always concerns when Government agencies work with private security companies, and it is important that the public are comfortable with any security arrangements with security providers. There would need to be clear transparency of joint operations or collaborations with private security and government agencies. Data Privacy would be a concern when sharing intelligence and dealing with members of the public. There would need to be clarity around accountability for any misconduct or errors made. Clear mechanisms for accountability and oversight need to be in place and transparent. This would be an opportunity to introduce regulation and standards for private security companies to obtain these contracts or enter any government partnership. The government can use this to uplift private security training but also introduce consistent practices across the entire security industry. As a result, in an emergency, the response between private and government security agencies must be seamless to provide effective and timely assistance without the risk of confusion.
Future Trends in Private Security
As we continue both here in New Zealand and globally with a decline in Police recruitment and dealing with the rapid increase in crime, there will be a point when there will be reliability on private security. From simple foot patrols and visible security to providing high level close protection to members of Parliament. This would provide a layer of security the government agencies can’t supply without impacting other security services to the public.
Private security guards will obtain authority to deal with low level crime like anti-social behaviour, public intoxication, and theft. This would free up government agencies to target organised crime and use their resources to focus on serious criminals and offending. These trends are currently being seen in the United Kingdom, USA, South Africa, and other places in the world where there is a greater reliance on private security. If done properly, the convergence of private and government security agencies can have a positive impacts on the communities by lowering crime and providing a higher level of visible security.
In recent years, the field of security investigations has witnessed a profound transformation, owing to the rapid integration of technology. Loss Prevention professionals have been at the forefront of this revolution, harnessing advanced tools and capabilities that have greatly enhanced their effectiveness in preventing and resolving criminal activities. This article explores how the use of technology, including drones, cameras, AI, video analytics, and intelligence software, has reshaped security investigations and how staying on the cutting edge of these advancements is crucial for the future of this field.
Drones: Eyes in the Sky
Drones have emerged as a game-changer in the world of security investigations. These aerial surveillance devices equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced sensors have the ability to capture real-time video footage and gather crucial evidence from vantage points that were previously inaccessible. The advantage of drones lies in their capability to swiftly cover large areas and provide investigators with data from multiple perspectives.
Loss Prevention professionals have embraced drones as a valuable asset in their toolkit. Whether monitoring a sprawling warehouse, a large retail space, or an outdoor event, drones offer a bird’s-eye view of the situation. This not only aids in evidence collection but also enhances situational awareness, making it easier to respond promptly to security threats. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of drones have made them an indispensable tool for security investigations.
Cameras: More Than Meets the Eye
Traditional and smart cameras have played a pivotal role in augmenting security investigations. Advancements in video analytics have empowered cameras to automatically detect suspicious activities, recognize faces, and identify specific objects. These capabilities have significantly reduced the time and resources required for sifting through vast amounts of footage.
For Loss Prevention professionals, this means an accelerated investigative process. Cameras equipped with AI-driven analytics can flag unusual behavior, unauthorized access, or potential threats in real-time. This proactive approach not only prevents security incidents but also assists in post-event analysis. By reconstructing events and tracking individuals, investigators can uncover critical details that might have been initially missed.
Artificial Intelligence: The Investigator’s Ally
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into security investigations has been a game-changer. AI algorithms have the remarkable ability to process and analyze massive datasets at incredible speeds, identifying patterns, anomalies, and potential threats. This is especially valuable in investigations where time is of the essence.
Loss Prevention professionals benefit from AI systems that continually improve their accuracy and effectiveness through machine learning. These systems provide investigators with invaluable insights and actionable intelligence, allowing them to make informed decisions swiftly. In an era where the volume of digital data is overwhelming, AI-driven solutions act as a force multiplier.
Video Analytics: Real-time Insights
Video analytics has emerged as a crucial component of security investigations. These tools analyze video footage in real-time, detecting, and alerting investigators to unusual behavior, unauthorized access, or potential threats. This real-time analysis adds an extra layer of security, as security personnel can respond promptly to emerging situations.
Furthermore, video analytics assist in post-event analysis by reconstructing events, tracking individuals, and identifying critical details. This forensic capability aids in piecing together the sequence of events and providing concrete evidence, which is essential in legal proceedings. For Loss Prevention professionals, this technology streamlines the investigative process and increases the likelihood of successful outcomes.
Intelligence Software: A Comprehensive View
Intelligence software has transformed the way investigators handle and analyze information. It aggregates data from multiple sources, including social media, public records, and law enforcement databases, providing investigators with a comprehensive view of individuals and their activities. This holistic approach enables Loss Prevention professionals to identify connections, anticipate threats, and develop effective strategies.
In today’s interconnected world, intelligence software is a vital tool. By gathering information from diverse sources, it helps investigators stay one step ahead of potential threats and criminal activities. Moreover, it assists in the early identification of vulnerabilities, allowing security teams to proactively address issues before they escalate.
Embracing the Future: Staying Proactive
While the current state of technology in security investigations is impressive, it is important to acknowledge that advancements are ongoing. The future of security investigations lies in embracing emerging technologies and testing new solutions that push the boundaries of what is possible. By staying informed about the latest developments, attending conferences, and collaborating with industry experts, investigators can remain at the forefront of technological advancements.
Exploring and experimenting with new investigative tools and technology is essential to harnessing their full potential and ensuring the continued improvement of security investigations. The journey does not end here. The field of security investigations will continue to evolve, and it is up to Loss Prevention professionals to seek out and adapt to new and enhanced tools and technology.
The use of technology in security investigations has ushered in a new era of efficiency and effectiveness for Loss Prevention professionals. Drones, cameras, AI, video analytics, and intelligence software have revolutionized the way investigations are conducted, from evidence gathering to threat detection. These advancements have not only improved the quality of investigations but have also played a vital role in preventing security incidents.
As technology continues to advance, it is imperative for security professionals to remain proactive and adaptable. The future of security investigations promises even greater promise, and those who stay on the cutting edge of technological advancements will continue to make our communities safer. By embracing innovation, Loss Prevention professionals ensure they are well-equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s security landscape.
Nearshoring operations in Mexico can offer many benefits to businesses, including lower costs, shorter delivery times, and proximity to the US market. However, security can be a concern in Mexico, and it is important to take measures to ensure the safety of both employees and assets.
Here are some of the reasons why security is crucial in nearshoring operations in Mexico:
Executive Protection
Nearshoring operations do not take place in big urban areas most of the time. Many times, small cities are the ones selected for this type of industrial operations, especially those as close as possible to the Mexico – US border for logistical and cost reasons. These small cities may lack resources to provide an EP service the way we are used to in big cities like Mexico City, Monterrey, Tijuana or Guadalajara.
Planning the EP Detail from the moment the investment decision is made will make it possible to bring qualified EP agents (Bilingual and non-bilingual), special vehicles: armored or non-armored, technology (GPS Monitoring, Emergency Response, etc) as well a proper protective and geopolitical intelligence. Rely on reputable corporate security companies in the country for advice and support for EP, GPS monitoring and Emergency Response.
Employee Safety Duty of Care for Nearshoring Operations in Mexico
Employee safety is paramount for any business. In Mexico, there are concerns about crime, violence, and kidnapping. Therefore, companies must take steps to ensure the safety of their employees, such as providing secure transportation and ensuring that their facilities are located in safe areas.
Protection of Intellectual Property
The theft of intellectual property is a significant concern in Mexico. Companies must ensure that their confidential information and patented technology are safeguarded against theft and cyberattacks. This may involve measures such as secure data storage, access controls, and periodic audits.
Supply Chain Security
Supply chain security is also crucial in nearshoring operations in Mexico. Companies must ensure that their products are transported and stored securely to prevent theft, counterfeiting, and other risks.
Regulatory Compliance
Companies operating in Mexico must adhere to local laws and regulations related to security. This includes ensuring that their facilities meet safety and protection standards, and that they are properly registered and authorized.
Overall, the importance of security in nearshoring operations in Mexico cannot be overstated. By taking the appropriate measures to ensure the safety of employees, assets, and intellectual property, companies can minimize risks and maximize the benefits of nearshoring in Mexico.
Including medics in executive protection teams is highly beneficial. Executive protection teams are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of high-profile individuals such as executives, politicians, and celebrities. Having a dedicated medic as part of the team can enhance their ability to respond to medical emergencies and provide immediate medical care if needed, not only to the principal, but also team members.
Medical Emergencies
Medical Emergencies can occur at any time, even during relatively low-risk situations, for example an RTA. Having a medic on the team ensures that immediate medical attention can be provided in case of incidents such as injuries, accidents, or sudden health complications, especially if the principal has known medical conditions.
Immediate Response
A dedicated medic provides immediate response and medical intervention, potentially saving lives and minimizing the severity of the injuries. Their training and expertise allows them to rapidly assess the situation, stabilize the injured person, and provide initial treatment during evacuation or until further medical assistance arrives.
Medics in Executive Protection & Specialized Medical Knowledge
Medics possess specialized medical knowledge and skills that are invaluable in emergency situations. They are trained to handle a wide range of medical issues, from basic first aid to advance life support techniques. This expertise enables them to address medical needs specific to the individuals they are protecting.
Enhanced Risk Management
Including medics in executive protection teams enhances the overall risk management strategy. They can conduct pre-arrival assessments of venues, identify potential medical risks, and plan accordingly. In high-risk environments or during travel to remote locations, the presence of a medic ensures that the necessary medical supplies and equipment is readily available, country of travel dependant.
Public Image and reputation
In case of medical emergencies involving high-profile individuals, the presence of a medic can help mitigate potential negative publicity. A rapid and professional medical response can demonstrate the individual’s safety and wellbeing are prioritized, which can have positive impact on public perception.
It’s important to note that the specific composition of an executive protection team may vary depending on the organization and the nature of the protected individual’s activities. However, having a competent medic as part of the team can greatly enhance their ability to handle medical emergencies, and mitigate risk.
Medics in Executive Protection in the 21st Century
We have witnessed an increase in highly trained medics, often former military combat medics, transition into the Executive Protection circuit, effectively alleviating the need for a medic, as the agent is dual hatted. This is highly sort after, noting that a first aid qualification such as a FREC, or FPOSi, does not constitute the same level of training, and skill a former combat medic will possess, as these individuals have also been subjected to real-world life-threatening scenarios, and passed extensive training in their area of expertise.
Ethics and morals should be a driving force especially when placed in charge of protecting people, property, reputations or as security training provider.
Let’s start by defining the term “Ethics”
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary Ethics is defined as:
the principles of conduct governing an individual or a profession
Other sources include in their definition:
the concepts of moral right and wrong and moral good and bad
Also according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary Moral is defined as:
of or relating to principles of right and wrong in behavior
Basically, Ethics and Morals can be summed up as doing what is right rather than doing what is expedient, profitable, or gets you want you want regardless of the manner you in which you get it.
Ethics is so important that Public and Private organizations have ethic policies in place to guide their employees on what is and what is not acceptable.
“Ethics is a reflection of our commitment to doing business the right way. We emphasize trust and transparency.”
– Rodney Martin, CEO, Voya Financial,
Unfortunately, in the security industry we see the lack of Ethics and Morals almost daily. Here are just a few examples I have personally witnessed or encountered in my 17 years of experience:
1. Over charging clients for services or quality not provided.
If a contract requires 10 security agents but the security organization only provides 8, many organizations will still charge for 10 if the client does not check or audit the security staffing in real time.
Sub-contracting is another area that clients are often taken advantage of. As an example, the client pays the prime security contract holder however, that contractor needs to outsource the security to another vendor. As soon as the contract is subbed out that bill rate is drastically reduced. This allows the contract holder to retain a large percentage of the bill rate at the cost of the quality of security to be provided.
To further explain, let’s assume the Security Contract holder charges the client an hourly bill rate of $100. They then sub-contract the work to Security Vendor A; however, they only provide an hourly bill rate of $50 to Vendor A. The prime keeps $50 an hour for simply finding another service provider. Vendor A will need to hire a security agent based on the provided hourly bill rate of $50. This could result in a $20-$35-hour guard. The client has an expectation of a level of security to be provided based on an hourly bill rate of $100 however, is getting as little as a quarter of what they have paid for.
Clients do understand that security is a business and profits must be made. However, most if not all clients have no knowledge of the extent in which the quality of security is reduced. This gets exponentially worse when the main contract is subbed out multiple times from the prime contract holder to Vendor A then Vendor A subs it to Vendor B and so on. Each vendor takes a percentage, and the client ends up with a $12 an hour security guard.
2. Not paying those that have done the job in a timely manner.
Often on social media posts or on contracts it is indicated that pay will be delivered upon the end of the contract, at times that could be up to 90+ days. This is not only immoral and unethical it is often illegal in most states.
It’s understandable that individuals need to work and may accept those terms however that does not make it right. The contract holder should either have the funds available to cover the required payroll OR bill their client prior to work being performed.
Most states have specific pay frequency requirements that must be followed. A list of those requirements can be found at State Specific Pay Frequency
3. Hiring staff as 1099 sub-contractor and not as W2 employees.
This is a common issue which provides the security company the ability to defer tax liabilities off onto the security agent.
This not only violates IRS tax code, but it also violates most state laws pertaining to licensing requirements.
If a security contract company sub-contracts out security services that sub-contractor would be required to hold all the proper state licenses to do business and also provide security service. They would also need to have the proper liability insurance to provide security services.
4. Using LEOSA HR218 as authority to provide armed security services.
Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) HR218 allows qualified Law Enforcement officers the ability to carry a concealed weapon in any jurisdiction in the United States. Often this is improperly used as a pre-qualifier for a security agent to be hired.
HR 218 is intended for the qualified members personal protection and does not provide them the authority to carry a firearm while providing security for others. Most states require a separate Armed Guard Card to provide armed security services.
§926C. Carrying of concealed firearms by qualified retired law enforcement officers
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of the law of any State or any political subdivision thereof, an individual who is a qualified retired law enforcement officer and who is carrying the identification required by sub- section (d) may carry a concealed firearm that has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce, subject to subsection (b)
Most States have laws requiring armed security license which HR 218 does not supersede.
5. Organizations and individual operating without proper licensing and or insurance.
Frequently clients travel within the United States and require that security be maintained at all times. If a security agent is a W2’d employee of the clients or the organization the client works for then specific licensing may not be required.
However, in most cases security companies provide contracted security for clients and or organization. That requires the security service provider and security agents to have the proper state licensing and insurance coverages in all states that security services are provided in.
Instead of finding local licensed security vendors, security companies simply send their security agents across state lines without the proper licensing which is illegal and puts everyone involved at risk of legal action.
Often the client and or prime contract holders do not verify that their sub-contractor is fully licensed or if the security agents have the proper licensing to perform security services.
6. Job posting on social media platforms to fill immediate security openings.
The first question that should be asked when a post of this nature is advertised should be “how are security background checks being done if you are filling the position last minute and hiring from social media?
Another question that should be asked is “How are a security agent’s qualifications being validated with such short notice”?
And finally, how would the client feel if they were to find out their security is being filled by a random person found on social media?
7. Training schools that are not qualified to instruct on what they are advertising and teaching.
Many training providers offer a buffet of courses which could include Executive Protection, Medical, Technical Surveillance Countermeasure (TSCM), Designated Defensive Marksman, High Threat Protective Security Detail (PSD), and a variety of other “cool” or attention-grabbing courses.
Many of these providers offer courses they are not qualified to teach. As an example, if you have gone to a TSCM course that does not qualify you to teach TSCM, same goes for PSD, DDM and medical courses as well.
Many also offer these courses to raise the training hours they provide in order to qualify to receive GI Bill payments and thus they specifically target veterans.
8. Ethics and morals involved in issuing training certificates, while not always meeting the requirements
If there is overlap in training content training providers will simply issue certificates to those attending indicating they have met the training requirements for multiple courses.
As an example, which will vary from state to state: An individual attends a carbine course and also needs to complete a required conceal carry course. Although during the carbine course they train on transitioning to a pistol, that portion of carbine training cannot be used to substitute or qualify as meeting the CCW training requirement.
As yet another example, if medical courses are being provided such as TCCC, Stop the Bleed, and CPR/AED although these courses may have overlap of information each course has an independent training time and skills testing requirements. You cannot combine courses and each one needs to be delivered independently.
9. Hiring individuals without doing proper background checks.
This has facilitated individuals with felony criminal records to provide security services.
Even more concerning is that known felons have been hired regardless of their criminal convictions.
10. Ethics and Morals of security professionals as individuals, and a whole
Instead of being steadfast they compromise their own ethics and morals simply to get along with those who lack or violate what should be industry values and norms.
By ignoring those who harm this industry we provide them license to continue and misrepresent the profession, steal from those being protected and individuals wanting to join the industry.
Unfortunately, for the reasons stated, I have to tell my clients
Those you hire to protect you are often the first ones to steal from you
Final thoughts on ethics and morals in security
For me, transparency, ethics, and morals are guiding principles to build and maintain trust with my clients and those I work with.
Security is a selfless industry by nature. We are asked and trusted to potentially risk our lives in the protection of others. We are also exposed to sensitive information which we are trusted to protect. Not only do we jeopardized the lives and information of our clients when we operate without ethics, we also put everyone involved in legal jeopardy.
To sum it up Ethics and Morals are directly tied to trustworthiness and integrity of an individual and or organization. All of which are critical when trusted to provide security services.
How to Build and Maintain Resilience
And Its Vital Role in the Executive Protection Field - Part 2 by Dr. Mary Beth Janke
Resilience is the ability to adapt well in the face of significant stress, trauma, and adversity; essentially, it’s the ability to bounce back on your feet quickly when life throws punches your way (which it inevitably does), and to stay on track regardless of what might be happening on the sidelines. Having a solid level of resilience is an essential quality for mentally and physically healthy individuals, and crucial to those working in the field of EP. The beautiful part is that you are never too old to build your level of resilience.
Resilience is a clear path to better mental and physical health. Understand that resilience is not a triage tool to be broken out “in case of emergency” when you are in-crisis. It is, instead, a lifestyle; something we need to work on every day. Fortunately, it can be nurtured, increased, and built upon at any stage in life.
At the very core of working on your resilience is shifting your mindset. The secret to a resilient mindset is learning how to master your self-talk. The key to mastering your self-talk is understanding my favorite theory in psychology called Cognitive Behavioral Theory, or CBT.
Cognitive Behavioral Theory is fairly self-explanatory: your cognitions affect your behavior, mediated by emotions. Let me expound on this… First, your cognitions, which is just a fancy word for your thoughts, create self-talk. These thoughts and self-talk generate emotions and your emotions affect how you feel. How you feel affects how you behave and, thus, how you live your life. So, it’s sort of a domino effect. The more positive and the more encouraging your thoughts and self-talk, the more resilient you are, and the healthier you will become – both physically and mentally.
Here’s the best part: YOU have the power to modify your thoughts and to change the self-talk. Yes, YOU have that power, and YOU CAN modify your thoughts and self-talk. It’s actually pretty simple… not necessarily easy, but simple, nonetheless.
So, when negative thoughts enter your mind, be aware of them and stop them right there. Do not allow yourself to go down the spiral of negativity, to catastrophize, to bury yourself in that pit of self-criticism. It will affect how you feel, it will affect how you behave, it will affect how you live your life. It will also affect the people around you – your family, your friends, your co-workers. Allowing those negative thoughts to take over will hack away at your resilience and, as a result, your mental and physical health.
Let’s be honest, negative thoughts come naturally and, for some people, they come quite often. Here’s the trick to shifting negative thoughts: choose the lens though which you view things. In other words, you can choose the negative thoughts and all the ugly that goes along with them – how they make you feel like garbage, how they can ruin your day, your week, your month, even your relationships OR you can choose a different lens… One that views things in a way that isn’t so harsh, that doesn’t give into the negative self-talk, and that contributes to your life, shifts your mindset, makes you more resilient, and more physically and mentally healthier.
Ok, so let’s say you are contemplating whether you should apply for a new job in the EP field. You are reading the job description and, as if on cue, the negative thoughts start whirring in your mind – “I think the role is out of my league”, “I don’t have the skill set to take on that level of EP work”, “I remember my supervisor on my last job told me I was incompetent”. STOP! Choose a different lens, choose to be resilient. Change your self-talk and tell yourself that no job is out of your league and that you belong in ANY room, in any job, you choose to be in. Put the negativity to rest. Your whole mindset will shift, and you will feel so much better, so much healthier.
Here’s what it boils down to: Watch your thoughts, they become your self-talk. Watch your self-talk, it creates your mindset. Watch your mindset, it dictates your actions. Watch your actions, they become who you are. You WILL become a more resilient YOU.
So, every morning, look in a mirror and say to yourself, out loud, “I am resilient!” and believe it. Your mindset will follow and you will continue to fortify a mentally and physically healthier version of yourself.
In Part 3 of this series, I will talk about what Resilience looks like in everyday life…
Movies often take creative liberties, portraying scenarios that may not accurately reflect reality. “The Bodyguard“, a popular film starring Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston, is no exception. While it may be an entertaining romantic thriller, it falls short when examined from the perspective of the executive protection industry.
In this blog post, we will explore what “The Bodyguard” gets wrong about executive protection, highlighting the discrepancies between Hollywood’s portrayal and the real-life challenges faced by professionals in this field.
Simplified and Glamorized Representation
At its core, “The Bodyguard” is a compelling love story blended with elements of action and suspense. However, it oversimplifies the complexities of executive protection, where providing security for high-profile individuals demands meticulous planning, coordination, and a trained team of professionals. The film portrays the executive protection agent, played by Kevin Costner, as an all-in-one savior who effortlessly navigates through life-threatening situations while developing a romantic relationship with his client.
Real-life executive protection is far from a one-man show. It requires a dedicated team of highly trained specialists, each with unique skills, working together harmoniously to mitigate risks and ensure the client’s safety. Professionals in the industry understand that effective executive protection is a collaborative effort, and the success of any operation relies on the synergy among team members.
Lack of Detailed Risk Assessment
The security team’s risk assessment process in the movie seems almost nonexistent. They rush headlong into action without thoroughly analyzing potential threats or vulnerabilities. In stark contrast, the executive protection industry emphasizes the importance of comprehensive risk assessment as the foundation of any security plan.
Before any assignment, professional executive protection agents conduct in-depth risk assessments to identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, and their potential consequences. These assessments involve extensive research and analysis of the client’s public profile, travel itineraries, and event schedules, among other factors. The insights gathered help the team develop a proactive approach to security, ensuring all potential risks are mitigated to the best extent possible.
Unrealistic Portrayal of Firearm Usage
Action-packed sequences involving firearms are a staple in action movies, and “The Bodyguard” is no exception. As a skilled marksman, the protagonist takes down adversaries with impressive accuracy and timing. However, such portrayals disregard the restraint and discipline required in real-life executive protection scenarios.
Professional executive protection agents prioritize non-violent conflict resolution, using firearms only as a last resort to protect the client’s life when all other options have been exhausted. Real-life professionals undergo rigorous training to verbally defuse hostile situations and use other defensive techniques before resorting to lethal force.
The film’s unrealistic portrayal of firearm usage perpetuates the Hollywood stereotype of “trigger-happy” agents, far from the reality of responsible and well-trained professionals in the field. Executive protection agents are not mere gunslingers, but highly skilled professionals who prioritize the safety of their clients and the public above all else.
Neglecting the Importance of Intelligence Gathering
In the movie, the protagonist possesses an almost psychic ability to anticipate threats and make split-second decisions. This disregard for thorough intelligence gathering is misleading. In the executive protection industry, success often relies on the meticulous collection and analysis of intelligence to stay one step ahead of potential threats.
Effective intelligence gathering involves monitoring social media, tracking real-time events, and cooperating with law enforcement agencies and other security professionals to ensure comprehensive protection. It helps the executive protection team to anticipate and proactively address potential risks, enabling them to create a safe and secure environment for their clients.
Minimizing Team Collaboration
“The Bodyguard” perpetuates the notion of a solitary protector, overshadowing the significance of team collaboration. In the real world, executive protection teams work cohesively to effectively cover all angles and address different security aspects. Each member brings unique skills, creating a formidable force capable of tackling multifaceted security challenges.
A well-coordinated team is crucial for the success of any executive protection operation. The roles and responsibilities of team members are clearly defined, and they undergo rigorous training to work in unison during high-stress situations. Moreover, executive protection teams collaborate with other security personnel, law enforcement agencies, and event organizers to ensure seamless security integration.
Ignoring Client Cooperation and Training
In the movie, the client, portrayed by Whitney Houston, is a passive recipient of the security measures taken by the protagonist. However, executive protection is a partnership between the client and the security team. Clients undergo extensive training to enhance their awareness and response capabilities during potential threats. This collaboration ensures that clients can actively participate in their security, increasing the effectiveness of the protection provided.
Clients are informed of safety protocols and measures, enabling them to make informed decisions that contribute to their personal security. They are actively involved in the development of security plans, which are tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle. This client engagement is crucial for the successful implementation of executive protection strategies.
Conclusion
While “The Bodyguard” remains a classic in romantic thrillers, it fails to grasp the intricacies of the executive protection industry. The film’s over-simplification and misrepresentation of security practices can lead to misunderstandings and false expectations about real-life security scenarios. As we analyze the movie through the lens of industry professionals, it becomes evident that there is much more to executive protection than Hollywood portrays.
True executive protection requires comprehensive risk assessments, intelligence gathering, teamwork, and a commitment to non-violent conflict resolution. By acknowledging these realities, we can better appreciate the dedication and expertise of the professionals who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure the safety of their clients. The executive protection industry is a dynamic field that demands constant adaptability and preparedness to face the ever-changing landscape of security challenges. Only by understanding these complexities can we begin to appreciate the true extent of the efforts undertaken by executive protection experts to safeguard the lives of those they serve.
In a surprising turn of events, a recent video captured Angelina Jolie’s bodyguard appearing to slam the door in her son’s face during a shopping outing in New York City.
The incident, which has sparked speculation and raised eyebrows, occurred as the mother and son duo were making their way into a store. While the exact context remains unclear, the video has generated discussions about privacy, parenting in the public eye, and the challenges of maintaining personal boundaries amidst the constant attention of the media and fans.
Enterprise Security Risk Management (ESRM), is a very effective method for measuring an organization’s risks in an advisory capacity, evaluating an organization’s structure during and after a serious incident or crisis, and putting strategic countermeasures in place to lessen the probability or occurrence of security threats. Many fixed and close quarter protection details require security personnel to know danger areas for their principals or in what locations might present the largest risk. This presents challenges on their own; however, what about those impetuous mistakes of something as simple as knowing where the jurisdiction of the protective detail or fixed security program begins and where it ends? For instance, airports are divided into two distinct areas, non-sterile, comprised of areas such as arrival and departure drop-offs/pick ups and space before the x-ray screening areas, and sterile, which makes up the area past x-ray screening from the gates to the aircrafts themselves. Unfortunately, many company employees, and even some security personnel, are ignorant of exactly what areas are physically non-sterile and sterile areas that make up an important piece of the entire security framework.
The Latin phrase, “ignorantia juris non excusat,” translates to, “ignorance of the law excuses not.” Just as ignorance of the law is not an excuse for defense, the same is true for ignorance of non-sterile and sterile areas.
Fixed and non-fixed areas often use signage to advise a would-be aggressor or one with malicious intent that their actions are under surveillance along with the penalty for transgressions against said assets. However, when organizations and their protectors fall into ignorance, it causes not only a risk to the principals and assets but may also question the competence of those associated with the security framework from the frontline Security Officers to the Chief Security Officer (CSO).
Ego, passivity, and laziness, may be the culprits for this type of ignorance; however, the question is how many chances does one get to dodge a near miss – both figuratively and real?
Sometimes, the solution is more obvious than perceived.
Initial, quarterly, and sporadic training, and simulations are force-multipliers to sharpen the acumen of the security professional and provide the right amount of confidence to increase security and threat awareness. Many times, there is a premature leap into how to protect the asset or principal, (i.e. via CCTV cameras, pre–established and backup transportation, and access control systems), but a lot can be said for covering operational basics such as where the non-sterile and sterile areas of a security assignment or posture begins and ends. This may be done by identifying what checkpoints lead to sterile areas and how aggressors may try to circumvent them.
A few years ago, I led a team of contracted security professionals who were tasked with adding an additional layer of security for a visiting Senator to a town hall meeting for a prominent financial organization. During the advance team training at the location, first on the agenda was ensuring each of my 12 team members knew the space where the public could occupy, such as the atrium where building tenants were still conducting business, to the host organization’s employee spaces, where they were still running the financial institution’s operations, and then finally to the town hall space where the Senator was making his presentation.
Once that was established, I infused a critical thinking exercise to my team by asking them, “if an aggressor were hypothetically able to penetrate the sterile areas and was noticed, what would be the route of escape? The purpose was not to insinuate that breaching into the sterile areas was something to be taken lightly, but to best communicate throughout my team, to the internal security team, and local law enforcement, the area which would be most concealed in a possible aggressor’s mode of escape, which would lead to their capture.
