CPO - Close Protection Leader

TalentWorld is recruiting a Senior Close Protection Leader for a confidential client based in Toronto. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned executive protection professional who thrives in both strategic leadership and hands-on operational environments.

In this role, you will be responsible for developing and leading comprehensive close protection programs while also actively participating in protective assignments. The ideal candidate will bring a military, law enforcement, intelligence, executive protection, or corporate security background, combined with strong operational expertise, leadership capability, and policy development experience. You will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of high-profile individuals while driving the development of scalable protection programs and best-in-class security practices.

Senior Close Protection Leader Responsibilities

• Lead and execute close protection operations for high-profile individuals across various environments.
• Develop and implement executive protection strategies, policies, and standard operating procedures.
• Conduct threat and risk assessments, advance planning, intelligence gathering, and route analysis.
• Oversee and mentor a team of close protection professionals, ensuring operational excellence and adherence to best practices.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, intelligence partners, and external security vendors.
• Participate directly in protective details, including travel and event security assignments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in executive protection, close protection, military, law enforcement, intelligence, or corporate security environments, with at least 5 years in a leadership or program management role.
• Proven experience protecting high-profile individuals, senior executives, government officials, public figures, or high-net-worth clients.
• Demonstrated ability to develop security policies, procedures, and operational frameworks.
• Experience managing domestic and international travel security operations.
• Strong understanding of threat assessment, intelligence gathering, and risk mitigation.
• Exceptional leadership, decision-making, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, emotional intelligence, and sound judgment.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure and rapidly changing environments.

Licenses & Certifications (Required)

• Valid Ontario Security Guard License.
• Use of Force and Handcuffing Certification.
• Standard First Aid & CPR/AED (Level C or higher).
• Valid Driver’s Licence with a clean driving record.
• Firearms Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL/RPAL) considered a strong asset.
• Advanced executive protection or close protection certifications (e.g., CPP, PSP, ASIS, or recognized international training) considered an asset.
• Ability to obtain international travel documentation and security clearances as required.

Working Conditions

• Based in Toronto, Ontario, with frequent domestic and international travel.
• Starting salary at $140,000 per year.
• Irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to respond to urgent situations on short notice.
• Combination of office-based strategic work and hands-on protective assignments.

Apply today! Qualified candidates will be contacted to discuss this confidential opportunity. TalentWorld is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.
This posting is for a position that is currently vacant within one of our client organizations.

Accommodation is available upon request to support your participation during all stages of the recruitment process.

TalentWorld is a Canadian leader in staffing, offering diverse opportunities for professional growth, flexible schedules, and career advancement. Embracing diversity, all are welcome to apply.

Please note that AI tools may be used to support the screening, assessment, or selection of applicants for this position.

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