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Professional close protection officers

What we do

Many projects we work on require a straightforward bodyguard service. Our close protection services take things up a notch for sensitive and complex assignments involving a high-risk principal.

Close protection is a holistic approach to personal protection that focuses on providing a comprehensive security strategy that identifies threats and implements the most effective measures to protect an individual, a family or a small group.

How we do it

We break the close protection assignment down into four distinct stages.

  1. Risk assessment
  2. Threat analysis
  3. Planning and coordination
  4. Close Protection Officer (CPO) deployment

Our close protection officers

Close protection officers are carefully selected and highly trained specialists, many from a military or services background. They often combine the physical attributes of a bodyguard with strategic thinking, high-level communication skills, and comprehensive knowledge of security protocols, procedures and relevant legal frameworks.

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We provide highly trained, licensed close protection officers for any situation, however sensitive or complex.

Key elements of close protection

Threat Analysis

We offer free initial consultations to ensure the close protection services we offer are relevant and effective. Analysing and identifying potential threats to those being protected is a crucial initial step in ensuring their safety. It involves a systematic process of identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities and using them to develop a comprehensive risk assessment.

Risk Assessment

A close protection risk assessment analyses the likelihood and impact of threats identified in the assessment to determine the level of protection required. It considers various factors, including the principal’s profile, lifestyle, travel patterns and the surrounding environment, forming the foundation for a comprehensive security plan to mitigate them

Planning and Coordination

Planning and coordination involve developing specific security protocols, establishing clear roles and responsibilities, and coordinating with relevant stakeholders such as local law enforcement and venue security. Contingency plans for various scenarios include communication channels and logistical arrangements for travel and accommodation.

Close Protection Officer Training

Close Protection Officers are specialists with advanced training in the skills needed to carry out their role effectively.

Training is normally done locally with licensed training providers overseen by national regulatory and certifying bodies. There are global inconsistencies around training requirements, which is why we always recommend using a professional contractor like Close Protection Global to guarantee the highest standards.

For example, in the UK, close protection officers are licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) with strict training requirements. In South America, an official licensing body doesn’t exist, making it harder for a private individual needing close protection to establish the level of training of the candidate they are considering. You can expect our close protection officers to be proficient in:

  • Level 3 First Aid
  • Self Defence and Physical Fitness
  • Advanced Driving Techniques
  • Risk / Threat Assessment
  • Legal and Ethical Standards
  • Firearms Proficiency (specialist)
  • Communication & Interpersonal Skills
  • Public Interaction Management
  • Surveillance Detection, & Counter-Surveillance

Armed Services FAQs

In most cases, we can provide armed officers. Where special permissions are required, particularly in Europe, we might need advanced notice to secure the correct licensing
In some countries, private security companies are forbidden to carry arms. In this case, we can normally get permission to equip officers with non-lethal alternatives like batons and pepper spray
Anyone working in or hiring close protection must understand and comply with the specific legal requirements of the country they are operating in. This includes regulations on using force, carrying weapons (if permitted), and the level of permissions granted to private security personnel.
The contract between the client and the security contractor should identify responsibilities and liabilities. It may include indemnity clauses covering who bears the responsibility for certain types of incidents.

Close protection officers are aware that they must be able to justify and defend their actions in court.
Security contractors like Close Protection Global hold general and professional liability cover. Clients engaging with security contractors should insist on contracts that address liability and insurance.