The Protector's Path: Leadership, Legacy, and Adaptability in a Changing World

At the recent Latin American Close Protection Summit, Charles Randolph (Chuck)—Chief Security Officer at Ontic and a founding member of the International Protective Security Board (IPSB)—delivered an insightful presentation focused on leadership, legacy, and the evolving risks facing today's security professionals. Drawing on his extensive experience, Chuck shared his thoughts on the enduring values that guide protectors and the new challenges that demand adaptability and vigilance.

Building on a Legacy of Honor and Dedication

Chuck began by honoring the legacy of the protective services profession, which has always been grounded in honor, loyalty, and dedication. "Among the best of the best—the protectors, the quiet professionals who day in and day out serve as the invisible shield," he said, reminding the audience of the deep roots of service that define the field. These values have been passed down from historical figures like Walter Thompson, who protected Winston Churchill, to today's practitioners who carry on the tradition.

Navigating a Hybrid Threat Landscape

A key message from Chuck's presentation was the need for security professionals to adapt to an increasingly complex threat environment. Once focused primarily on physical threats, the protector's role now involves safeguarding digital identities, managing reputational risks, and countering sophisticated criminal networks. "We're not just defending against bombs, bullets, and blades anymore," he noted. "We're protecting digital identities and navigating asymmetric threats."

Latin America has seen a sharp rise in cyberattacks, with tactics like ransomware and digital extortion growing more common. Physical threats have also become more advanced, with drone-mounted explosives and virtual kidnappings entering the criminal arsenal. Chuck emphasized the importance of staying ahead of these evolving risks, noting that shortages in cybersecurity personnel and rapid technological advancements are making it increasingly difficult to keep up.

Real-World Examples: The Escalation of Threats

Chuck shared real-world examples to illustrate the complexity of modern threats. In 2018, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro survived an assassination attempt involving drones equipped with explosives, demonstrating how easily commercial technology can be weaponized. “Organizations are asking, ‘Could this happen to us?’“ He said in discussing how two attempts on a former United State President (and current candidate) have companies and protectees both concerned about increased threats fueled by rising political tensions that are drawing them into the fray. He also referenced the 2020 Twitter hack, in which high-profile figures like Bill Gates and Elon Musk had their accounts compromised in a Bitcoin fraud. Chuck explained that today's threats are not just unpredictable but also increasingly difficult to detect, requiring security professionals to be both proactive and responsive.

Political Violence: A Global Crisis

Political violence, particularly in Latin America, was another central theme. In some regions, organized crime has become so entrenched that elections were canceled, or candidates withdrew due to threats. Chuck emphasized that these attacks are not random but deliberate efforts to influence political outcomes. For security professionals, the role now extends beyond physical protection—it is about safeguarding democratic processes themselves.

The Protector's Code: A Modern Guide for Professionals

As the world grows more unpredictable, Chuck introduced the "Protector's Code"—a modern set of guiding principles for today's professionals. Inspired by the samurai's code of honor, it includes six core values:

1.?Integrity: Always choosing actions based on values rather than personal gain.

2.?Courage: Doing what is right, even when faced with great danger.

3.?Vigilance: Remaining constantly alert to subtle threats.

4.?Adaptability: Being flexible and ready to pivot in response to changing risks.

5.?Loyalty: Staying dedicated to clients, teams, and the mission.

6.?Dedication: Pursuing excellence in every task, no matter how small.

These values, he explained, are not just abstract ideals—they form the foundation of effective protection in today's rapidly evolving threat landscape. Adherence to these principles will determine who succeeds in this field and who falls behind.

A Moment of Reflection and a Call to Action

Chuck ended his speech with a moment of gratitude, asking the audience to reflect on those who have supported them along their professional journeys. He then issued a call to action: to lead with integrity, act with courage, and face the challenges of an unpredictable world head-on. "As the world around us becomes more unpredictable," he said, "it's up to us to be the constant—the steady, unshakable presence in the lives of those we protect." The Latin American Close Protection Summit offered a platform for leaders like Chuck Randolph to inspire and guide the next generation of protectors. With the?right?values and mindset, today's professionals can rise to meet the challenges of tomorrow and continue safeguarding those who depend on them. We encourage all close protection professionals to join their peers at IPSB's annual summits, symposiums, and conferences. These events provide valuable opportunities to learn, share, and connect with others, shaping the profession's future.