By Jill Robertson - December 2025

Close Protection (CP) is one of the most diverse and rewarding fields in security. As threats evolve, Close Protection Operatives (CPOs) are needed across a wide range of environments, from corporate boardrooms to hostile conflict zones.

Understanding the different roles available helps you choose a path that suits your skills, personality, and ambitions.

Here, we break down the main types of CP roles, outlining what each involves and the unique benefits they offer.

Executive Protection

Safeguarding high-profile individuals like CEOs, celebrities, and politicians. Ideal for CPOs who excel in diplomacy and low-profile security.

Involves

• Risk assessments and advance work
• Route planning and travel logistics
• Escorting clients during engagements
• Maintaining discretion

Benefits

• High earning potential
• Frequent travel opportunities
• Stable, long-term contracts

Residential Security Teams (RST)

Protecting clients, their family, and their property at private residences. Excellent for CPOs who prefer routine, consistency, and building rapport with the household.

Involves

• Perimeter checks and patrols
• CCTV and alarm monitoring
• Access control and emergency response
• Overseeing household movements

Benefits

• Regular, predictable schedules
• Long-term placements and stability
• Strong relationships with the principal

High-Risk / Hostile Environment CP

Working in conflict zones, post-disaster regions, and unstable environments. Clients include journalists and NGOs. Suits highly trained CPOs with military or police backgrounds.

Involves

• High-risk movement and convoy protection
• Tactical driving and advanced trauma management
• Situational awareness in dangerous areas
• Coordinating evacuation plans

Benefits

• High salaries
• Specialised training opportunities
• Exciting, fast-paced work

Celebrity & Entertainment Industry Protection

Tailored security for artists, athletes, and performers during events and travel. Ideal for CPOs with strong interpersonal skills who adapt quickly.

Involves

• Controlling crowds and fan interactions
• Protecting clients during tours and appearances
• Coordinating with event staff and PR teams
• Managing public exposure risks

Benefits

• Travel to global events and film sets
• Dynamic and fast-paced environments
• Opportunities for long-term tour contracts

Corporate Security & Executive Travel Support

Working with senior executives, board members, and visiting guests in business settings. Perfect for CPOs who value structure and a polished, business-oriented environment.

Involves

• Risk management and travel security
• Coordinating with corporate security departments
• Providing security for AGMs and business travel
• Managing transport and hotel security plans

Benefits

• Professional corporate atmosphere
• Consistent schedules
• Networking opportunities

Surveillance & Counter-Surveillance

Supporting security operations, investigating threats, or monitoring hostile actors. Ideal for detail-focused operatives who excel in patience and analytical thinking.

Involves

• Covert monitoring and intelligence gathering
• Identifying surveillance on a client
• Protecting privacy and safeguarding information

Benefits

• Highly specialised skill set
• Opportunities with government and private clients
• Less public-facing than traditional CP roles

Security Driving / Chauffeur Protection

Providing safe, discreet, and efficient transport while managing risk on the move. Perfect for CPOs with excellent driving skills and a service-focused attitude.

Involves

• Defensive and evasive driving
• Route planning and vehicle checks
• Coordinating movements with protection teams

Benefits

• Highly sought-after specialist skill
• Potential for long-term positions
• Often low-stress compared to frontline CP roles

Event Security & Red Carpet Protection

Working at high-profile events such as award shows and galas. Ideal for CPOs who enjoy public events and crowd management.

Involves

• Protecting VIPs during public-facing events
• Managing crowds and access points
• Liaising with venue security

Benefits

• Exciting, high-energy environments
• Short-term but frequent opportunities
• Excellent industry networking

Security Consultancy & Risk Management

Experienced CPOs transition into advising clients on personal security, estate safety, and travel risk. Great for veterans who want to move off the frontline.

Involves

• Threat assessments and security planning
• Policy development and auditing
• Advising clients on crisis response

Benefits

• High pay for experienced professionals
• Flexible working options
• Leadership and strategic career progression

What CP Path Will You Choose?

Close Protection offers many paths. Whether you prefer the adrenaline of high-risk protection or the stability of residential security, there’s a CP career that matches your strengths and ambitions.

The demand for skilled Close Protection Operatives is growing, making now an excellent time to build your career in this dynamic industry.