Executive protection is the use of security professionals, such as bodyguards, to protect an individual with elevated risk due to employment, status, associations, or wealth. Executive protection can also include protection of company property, assets, and even an individual’s family if there is a threat of extortion.

There are a variety of situations that call for executive protection. For example, a corporation, CEO, or company VIP may desire protection after letting a particularly disgruntled employee go. Another individual may hire an executive protection agent during a child or domestic abuse investigation to escort them to and from court appearances. Ultimately, a person will hire an executive protection specialist for instances where threat assessment and protection may be beyond what local law enforcement can offer.