VIP / Executive Protection
Who needs executive protection (EP)?
Close or executive protection officers, often referred to as ‘bodyguards’, are usually associated with safeguarding the rich and famous. Now, as globalisation continues to expand the reach of business, it is becoming more common to see bodyguards providing their specialised services to big business. VIP or corporate close protection services play a vital part in protecting employees and corporate assets from threat.
Industries often in need of executive protection include the pharmaceutical, energy and financial industries. The precise level of executive protection required will depend on the size of the company and the status of the executives involved. SIA-licensed close protection officers are rigorously trained to identify and neutralise all sources of threat, which can include explosives, carjacking and terrorism. Recent news stories have also highlighted the vulnerability to kidnap of western workers in some areas of the world. This is a big reason for multi-national corporations to think seriously about executive protection measures when sending employees overseas.
Threats to security do not necessarily have to be hostile, or even physical, in nature. Celebrities in particular are vulnerable to being targeted by aggressive paparazzi or excited fans. Being stalked can also be a terrifying experience for celebrities and other high-profile figures. Executive protection officers will investigate and deal with incidences of stalking, or other forms of psychological harassment.
You do not have to be a celebrity or business executive to benefit from executive protection. Close protection officers are sometimes employed to protect vulnerable individuals in other walks of life, including people who are wealthy and those whose associates place them in a position of risk.
Gemstone: Specialists in VIP/Corporate Close Protection
With experience in providing executive protection for high profile individuals, from actors and actresses to professional footballers and international musicians, Gemstone are the natural choice when considering VIP or corporate close protection.
Gemstone close protection officers are carefully recruited from military, police or specialist security backgrounds. In line with legal requirements, they hold a front line close protection license issued by the SIA, the UK regulators of the private security industry. Gemstone also require their close protection officers to undertake an enhanced CRB check for added peace of mind.
The role of executive protection
Following a thorough training programme, Gemstone close protection officers are adept in providing both overt executive protection (if a clear physical deterrent is required or the potential for attack is high) and more subtle covert security. Gemstone close protection officers are trained in a host of executive protection techniques and procedures.
Much of the work of executive protection is spent in careful and methodical preparation, often involving additional security consultants. Research is carried out on individual executives and their associates to identify any potential aggressors, travel routes will be assessed and vehicles and buildings pre-checked for explosives and suspicious devices. When exiting or entering a vehicle (known as ‘debussing ‘and ‘embussing’), close protection officers follow a carefully planned sequence of actions and observations to maximize the security of their clients.
In the event of an attempt to physically harm the executive, close protection officers can deploy close combat skills. Elite executive protection officers, referred to as ‘agents’, possess additional skill sets, for example marksmanship and evasive driving.
If you, your family or your employees are in need of executive protection, contact Gemstone for more details.
