Law Enforcement to Corporate Security: CPP certification as a key component

The decision to move from law enforcement into the world of corporate security was a difficult one for me. I had been very successful as a police leader, but I wasn't applying to police departments. The worry about how transferable my mastered skillset would be in a new arena was front of mind in any interview I took part in.

I constantly asked people who were already established in the corporate security world, what would give me an edge? How can I translate my skill sets into corporate terms? Most would tell me a good starting point would be to obtain professional certifications, specifically through ASIS.?

I took note of their recommendations but never followed through. I was still unsure that a costly certification from ASIS would help me If I did not find my way into corporate security and remained in law enforcement. This flawed thinking was a misstep on my part.

ASIS offers tons of resources to supplement a person's security experience. After joining a corporation, I finally wanted to take on the Certified Protection Professional certification exam. I purchased the books and flashcards to help with preparation.?

The network around me, especially the security professionals from around the Atlanta market, became real assets. When they heard I was attempting to obtain the CPP designation, they all began volunteering their help without me having to ask.?

Many helped me study, quizzed me on the subject material, and continuously gave me much-needed advice. This was when I discovered the power of the connections within this subset of the ASIS community.

During my studying, it all started to click. I know this stuff! All of the specialized law enforcement skill sets I'd acquired over a decade of police work were utilized. Terms were different, some strategies realigned, and it was aimed at businesses, not public entities, but it was all familiar.?

The key domains in the CPP exam tests professionals' proficiency in security are as follows:

• Security Principles and Practices
• Business Principles and Practices
• Investigations
• Personnel Security
• Physical Security
• Information Security
• Crisis Management

"That's it!" This is how I explain my value in the private sector. I realized this would not only make me a better asset to my company but would have made me a better police leader.

The CPP preparation and coursework were a vital bridge from policing to the private sector. I saw my worth to my company more clearly. I could explain exactly how my law enforcement skillsets were essential assets for protecting people, property, and any company/department I would serve. The material went further and enhanced my knowledge of security and led me to become a lifelong student of CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design).

Then I took the exam, and it was tough. It put my knowledge, experience, and skills to the test. I waited patiently on the results, and then I got the email. I passed with flying colors.

I was eager to show off my new achievement. I posted my passing score on LinkedIn and received a response I never anticipated. Hundreds of colleagues congratulated me on successfully joining the professional network of certified protection professionals.

I left my experience more knowledgeable, more resourceful, and with a deeper understanding of complex security domains.?

If you are serious about transitioning from law enforcement, whether a local, state, or federal agency, to a position in corporate security, the CPP certification and learning experience is a great place to start.

Please note?Eligibility requirements?as the CPP is the pinnacle of achievement in the private security field. CPP requires candidates to meet extremely high standards and pre-requisites, such as several years of experience in the security field, including a few years in a management role:

To be eligible for induction into the CPP program, you need to have?9 years?of security experience*, with?3?years?spent in charge of a security function. There is a relaxation of two years for those with a bachelor’s degree. Graduates from an accredited institution of higher education can enroll into the CPP program if they have 7 years of security experience, of which at least 3 years should be spent managing a security function (ASIS International, 2022)

*Experience as a security professional in the protection of assets, in the public or private sector, criminal justice system, government intelligence, or investigative agencies

Reference:

ASIS International. 2022. Board Certification Handbook .

Some other valuable resources for members of law enforcement/military/public service looking to transition into corporate security:

Websites:

ASIS International

Cop to Corporate : Brian Tuskan

Podcasts/Videos:

The Corporate Security Translator : Carlos Francisco

How to transition from Law Enforcement to Corporate Security : Scot Walker

Public Safety Innovators : Adam Wills