What is Executive Protection?
Executive protection, also known as close protection, refers to security measures taken to ensure the safety of VIP’s, celebrities, executives, or other individuals who may be exposed to elevated personal risk because of their employment, celebrity status, wealth, associations, or geographical location.
Who would benefit from Executive Protection?
There is a common misconception that the only people who need Executive Protection are those with celebrity status. In reality, the people who need these types of heightened security measures extend far past Hollywood actors or chart-topping artists.
Public figures, politicians, high-net-worth individuals, CEOs, and VIPs may be exposed to heightened personal risk due to their status, careers, affiliations, geography, or net worth. With strategic risk assessment and advanced planning, experienced teams protect these high-risk individuals from physical, financial, and reputational harm.
What does an Executive Protection Agent do?
An Executive Protection Agent is responsible for the planning and execution of keeping their client safe and out of harm’s way. They are responsible for the security and protection of their client which often extends to the client’s family as well. Protection begins with a thorough assessment of risk probability. During this phase, agents investigate and run background checks on individuals the client may be in contact with as well as complete thorough online investigations to locate anyone that may pose potential threats like assault, stalking, theft, kidnapping, invasion of privacy and even assassination. This planning stage is done in advance of any movement, and it also involves mapping out routes, gaining a complete understanding of parking, entrances, exits and developing a back up plan if necessary.
Additionally, the role of an Executive Protection Agent can translate into a variety of responsibilities including driving and concierge services, event facilitation, liaison with hotels, airports, venues, and venue staff, and safeguarding highly sensitive and confidential security information. Agents, dependent upon circumstances, will be deployed singularly or as part of a larger team. The ability to work with a team and integrate quickly and seamlessly with other teams is an essential skill.
Executive Protection Agents are often required to travel domestically and internationally as part of their job, so they frequently work long hours, including evenings and weekends to ensure the client’s safety.
Is there a difference between an Executive Protection Agent and a Bodyguard?
Yes! While there is some overlap in responsibilities, an Executive Protection Agent should not be mistaken for a bodyguard. Both roles involve protecting a client and keeping them safe, but bodyguards are more focused on reacting when situations arise, whereas Executive Protection Agents focus on being proactive by utilizing investigative strategies to mitigate risk and keep their client out of harm’s way.
Contact an agent today to learn more about Executive Protection. 1.800.943.2670