The Craft of Protection: Beyond the "Bodyguard" Stereotype

Sentinel Security Solutions – December 9, 2024

Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthCare, a multi-billion dollar organization, fell victim to a lone wolf attack—an act of violence perpetrated by an individual acting alone, without external support. These attacks are notoriously difficult for law enforcement to detect, making them particularly dangerous.

[1]An article published by “Security Today,” stated, CEOs are aware of physical threats, but more involvement in mitigation strategies is needed. Every CEO believes its organization will face at least one physical threat in 2023. CEOs have noted that preparing for physical threats is now a top priority (38%)”.

In the wake of this tragedy, many Americans may have wondered, why Mr. Thompson was not assigned a bodyguard? While a bodyguard might have intervened during the attack, their role is largely reactive. In contrast, protection specialists focus on preemptive strategies, identifying and mitigating threats before they materialize. This tragic incident underscores the critical need for proactive, intelligence-driven security planning for high-profile individuals.

When the public envisions professionals tasked with safeguarding high-profile individuals, "bodyguards" often come to mind—stoic figures standing guard, ready to shield from imminent threats. While this image dominates popular culture, it oversimplifies the sophisticated discipline of modern protection.

As a former Secret Service agent, and law enforcement professional - with over 30 years of experience - the craft of protection is far more nuanced, relying on intelligence, preparation, and adaptability.

The Zero-Fail Mandate of Protection

The mission of protection is clear: provide maximum security with no margin for error. This requires professionals to focus on prevention rather than reaction. By leveraging emerging intelligence and adjusting security postures, threats may be mitigated before they manifest.

Intelligence-Driven Security

Effective protection demands a process-oriented approach to risk assessment. Security professionals evaluate multiple dimensions to create a safe environment, including:

• Physical Locations: Conducting thorough site evaluations, identifying vulnerabilities, and planning secure perimeters with clear evacuation routes.

• Cyber Threats: Monitoring digital activity for unusual patterns that could escalate into physical risks.

• Behavioral Threat Analysis: Identifying individuals displaying unusual interest, particularly those driven by ideological motives, and mitigating these threats through proactive measures.

Redefining the "Bodyguard" Concept

The term "bodyguard" often implies a reactive stance, addressing crises as they unfold. However, true protection planning encompasses strategic planning to prevent incidents from occurring. Executive Protection specialist must adapt and enact several key protective methodologies:

• Preparation Over Reaction: Planning must precede protective assignments, including venue assessing and coordination with proper law enforcement authorities.

• Situational Awareness: Training equips professionals to detect anomalies in real-time, adapting swiftly to changing scenarios.

• Holistic Security: Modern protection integrates cybersecurity, reputation management, and physical safety measures, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

The Role of Corporations in Protection

Corporations have a legal and ethical duty to protect their executives, whose safety is integral to organizational continuity. Unfortunately, security budgets are often among the first areas targeted during cost-cutting, despite the increasing risks executives face.

The Case for Proactive Security

Cutting security costs might seem practical in the short term, but the financial and reputational damage from cyber breaches to actual physical attacks, investing in a robust protective security operation safeguard not only individuals but also the organization's operational stability.

In an era where public visibility and digital exposure tantalizes fervent behavior and escalate risks, redefining the approach to protection is essential. By embracing proactive security measures, corporations and protection professionals can ensure a safe and secure environment that enables uninterrupted leadership and business continuity. This evolution transcends outdated stereotypes, elevating protection to a sophisticated and dynamic discipline.

[1] Security today, Report: Physical Threats to Business Increasing, But CEOs are Unprepared, April 28, 2023