What is Executive Protection? It’s Your Shield Against the World

“Firebird 1 is on the move, over.”

The scene flashes to a famous or wealthy person rushing into a limo or building.  They are often flanked by tough-looking men and women wearing white earpieces, black suits, and sunglasses.  They push and shove anyone in their way. And you know not to mess with them.  

But that’s Hollywood. In most situations, particularly here in Hawaii, security is more discreet. A protection plan can involve a noticeable physical presence. Often, it might be a security specialist following at a distance. Executive protection looks and functions differently based on each person’s unique circumstances.

Hawaii is a popular vacation, filming, and business destination. Its beauty and climate attract people from all over the world. And when they arrive on the islands, they want to enjoy Hawaii without worrying about safety. 

But it’s not only visitors who need a security specialist to be nearby. People who live on the islands year-round also have situations where they need to hire protection.

In this blog, you’ll get a high-level understanding of executive protection.  

Who needs executive protection?

The world has become more dangerous. This has caused the demand for specialized protection services to grow. Corporate executives, wealthy individuals, celebrities, and other public figures often need personal security. But anyone vulnerable to kidnapping, physical assault, or other dangers may hire a security service too.

In Hawaii, the most common threats are harassment. Celebrities who visit often want to have downtime with friends and family. But being in public can trigger a swarm of paparazzi and fans. A specialist can create a calmer atmosphere. In some cases, they may even be able to shield their client from any attention. 

Wealthy individuals and corporate executives face a different set of challenges. These may be threats of violence from a disgruntled former employee. Or they may face a general risk of kidnapping and ransom demands for themselves or their family. 

Remember, it’s not only the well-connected who need protection. Sometimes it’s a person escaping a violent relationship, or entering a hostile environment.

Is Executive Protection the same as having a bodyguard?

A bodyguard can be a part of a protection plan. An executive protection professional will have advanced skills in 6 areas: 

1. Detailed Planning: Meeting with the client and their security team is the first step.  A specialist needs an understanding of the nature and likelihood of threats. They will also do extensive research on all things their client deems necessary. Finally, they can combine this with their knowledge of the local area. 
2. Driving: Some clients will have a driver or want to drive themselves. The specialist should be a skilled driver for those who don’t. They will need to focus on what is going on around them, but also be able to drive in a way that keeps the client safe.  
3. Surveillance: Surveillance training and experience are two key components. Specialists have to be aware of their surroundings.  Identifying the best exit points and potential threats keeps their clients safe. 
4. Conflict De-escalation: A security specialist needs to have good conflict de-escalation skills. In the event a situation becomes tense, the best course of action is to find a peaceable solution. It keeps everyone involved safe. And keeps an unpleasant situation from turning into a traumatic event. 
5. Quick Thinking: Being able to think on your feet and adapt to rapid changes is essential. Clients will agree on an initial plan, but in real-world situations may deviate from it. It’s the security professional’s job to keep them safe, while still allowing them to do what they want. 
6. Discretion: A specialist mustn’t draw too much attention to themselves. Coded phrases or even physical contact can provide a subtle sign to the client of a possible threat. This then gives time to move to a safer space without alerting anyone else around. 

Traits of an Executive Protection Specialist

Surprisingly, there is no specific license needed to provide executive protection services. Security contractors may provide in-house training, and there are available courses to take. The best specialists have a background that includes one of the following elements:

• Military or law enforcement background provides a wealth of experience.  Situational awareness, planning, and risk and threat assessment are part of the job. And they also develop an ability to maintain composure under stress.
• Specialized training from a security company tailors services for the types of clientele likely to need protection. It can also provide insight and specific planning points for the locations the client will be visiting. 
• Adaptability is a vital component. The specialist may need to be visible, or discreet. They may need to provide an imposing presence or perhaps appear personable and friendly. 

Finding the right security partner

When you need executive protection, you’re trusting someone with your life. It’s the most important thing a security company is asked to protect. You need to find someone you can trust completely. And to do this, you will have to find out who has a good reputation and record of providing these services. 

It’s helpful to find a local security company who can meet your needs. They will have the best contacts and the most first-hand knowledge of the area when planning.  

At KT Protection Services, our ownership group has over six decades of combined experience in security services. Our backgrounds range from the military, law enforcement, hospitality, and corporate environments. We can tailor a protection detail that will fit your requirements exactly. 

Special security requirements don’t mean you can’t visit Hawaii and enjoy yourself. And if you live in Hawaii, you shouldn’t have to work with someone who doesn’t know the area. Working with a truly local security company can be the difference between safe and stressful.  Talk to us and find out how we can help make your experience easy, safe, and memorable.