Ever present but almost invisible – close protection officers are those dedicated, highly trained security guards who stand between high profile people and any unwanted attention. They are there to hold the line and extinguish threats before they escalate.

Close protection officers are perhaps better known as bodyguards and their services have never been more in demand than now with celebrities and key figures getting unprecedented attention following the rise of social media. This online exposure gives some members of the public a false sense of intimacy with celebrities and an associated sense of entitlement that they have the right to get up close and personal. Mostly, this attention is well intentioned, if unwanted, but there are situations which are more threatening and potentially more dangerous.

It is at this point a close protection officer steps in, to ensure the safety and security of their client, to prevent them coming to harm and to contain a situation.

Their clients are often high profile or important people ranging from the rich and famous to politicians, government officials and even members of the Royal family. But a close protection officer will be able to keep clients safe both in person and online from the threat of either a cyber or physical attack.

Would-be officers need to apply for a close protection licence which is issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). To earn this validation, they will need to demonstrate their knowledge and experience as well as undergoing enhanced background checks.

Close protection officers need a range of skills and attributes to do their job well. These include a knowledge of public safety and security as well as being able to remain calm in stressful situations.

They also need to be physically fit and have good stamina as they may be required to be on duty for several hours without a break. Attention to detail and the ability to identify potential risks is also necessary as close protection officers must be able to anticipate where threats may come from and how to handle them before trouble flares. This work is often subtle and officers may work in the background to check out and secure premises before their client arrives.

Close protection officers are very much on the frontline, on the scene to diffuse situations and remove their clients from dangerous environments. While the job is demanding, it can also be incredibly rewarding. You will have the satisfaction of knowing you have protected your client and kept them from safe from harm in a dangerous world.

At Zed Security, we have been providing close protection security for VIPs – including ministers of state and members of royal families – for more than 40 years both in the UK and across the globe. For more information on our team of experts, contact us on 01206 481681.