In today's complex and dynamic threat landscape, traditional executive protection (EP) measures are no longer sufficient. This presentation introduces a paradigm shift towards a 'left-of-bang' mindset, emphasizing proactive threat prevention through intelligence-driven planning, preparation, and covert protection strategies. We will explore how a diverse workforce, including skilled female professionals, can bring unique perspectives and capabilities to executive protection. Join presenter James Dutkowski, PSP, Managing Director, Lady Askari Limited, on Wednesday, 30 April and read on for what James had to say on the topic.
Q: How did you become interested in executive protection?
My interest in Executive Protection with a 'left-of-bang' mindset solidified during my transition from military service to Diplomatic Protection with the US State Department in high-threat environments like Iraq and Afghanistan. I witnessed firsthand from leading protection specialists, that proactive planning and meticulous preparation were paramount. The 'bang'—an attack—demands reactive measures, but true protection lies in the 'left-of-bang' phase: the strategic groundwork laid beforehand. I discovered it wasn't about brute force but a science rooted in threat-based assessments. Understanding the potential threats is the cornerstone of an effective protection program. This realization highlighted the often-overlooked, yet critical aspects of the profession. While popular media portrays the 'bodyguard' as a deterrence, the true art of executive protection is grounded in comprehensive planning and layered security strategies—a far more nuanced and impactful approach.
Q: What advice would you give security professionals interested in executive protection?
Security professionals aiming for excellence in Executive Protection 2.0 must prioritize soft skills alongside technical proficiency. In a 'left-of-bang' environment, effective communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are paramount. Cultivate active listening to anticipate threats and client needs. Develop emotional intelligence to de-escalate situations and maintain composure. Practice adaptability for dynamic protection environments. Uphold discretion and confidentiality to build client trust. Clear communication is vital, especially under stress. Invest in training that emphasizes these interpersonal skills; they form the bedrock of effective protection. While hard skills are essential, mastering soft skills first is crucial for long-term success. This is a career, not a sprint, requiring a balanced approach to both skill sets
Q: Why should security professionals have executive protection on their radar?
Security professionals must embrace Executive Protection 2.0's 'left-of-bang' mindset due to the escalating complexity of modern threats. Trends indicate a rise in targeted attacks, often leveraging open-source intelligence and social media, necessitating proactive threat assessments. Research highlights the limitations of purely reactive security models. News cycles are rife with examples of security breaches stemming from inadequate pre-incident planning. The shift towards 'left-of-bang' emphasizes anticipating and mitigating threats before they materialize.
This includes detailed advance work, intelligence gathering, and layered security protocols. A reactive stance is no longer sufficient; security professionals must adopt a predictive, preventative approach to safeguard their protectees in an increasingly volatile world. This mindset is crucial for adapting to the evolving landscape of executive protection.
Register for the upcoming webinar here.
James Dutkowski, PSP, works as Managing Director at Lady Askari Limited and has been an ASIS member for more than 15 years.
