A close protection officer (CPO) protects VIPs from potential threats to their safety and wellbeing.
Also known as bodyguards (or executive protection officers in the US), they are trained in specialist skills such as surveillance and emergency response. They constantly scan the area for potential trouble, and may even use their own body to make a physical barrier between the principal and the danger.
As well as protecting individuals from attack, injury and theft, they are also trained to deal with medical emergencies.
The CPO forms part of the security team protecting high-profile executives, political figures, and other high-net-worth-individuals and their families during day-to-day activities, journeys, and special events.
Before the CPO goes out on site, they should analyse the threat level and develop a plan to mitigate the risks. For example, they identify suitable safe routes, transport and accommodation.
When choosing a CPO, you need one with good interpersonal skills so they can build a good rapport and empathy with the client and their entourage. They need to be patient, confident and calm, no matter what happens.
To give just one example, they must be comfortable making conversation with the principal and answering their questions, without feeling intimidated.
Obviously, the principal must have confidence that their CPO will get them out of harm’s way. The client has to trust them.
As well as soft skills, the CPO needs to have a high level of self-discipline and stamina, and be physically fit and mentally robust. They may have a policy or military background and undergo ongoing training to maintain their high standards. For covert engagements, they need to blend in with the environment in a low-profile way.
Note that CPOs may be male or female. The stereotypical ‘big guy in a black suit’ isn’t always appropriate for a given situation. We’ll always recommend the right person for any job, and the appropriate attire for the occasion whether it’s a red-carpet event or accompanying someone to the gym.
In the UK, all CPOs need to be licenced by the Security Industry Association (SIA).
SGT’s close protection officers have all these attributes – and more. Please contact us for more information.