Close Protection Officer (CPO) / Covert Surveillance Officer

About Prevail Partners

Prevail Partners is a leading British intelligence, security and operational support company. We help governments, NGOs and commercial organisations operate safely and effectively in some of the world's most complex environments by combining intelligence, technology and operational expertise. Our teams deliver actionable insight that helps clients manage risk, make informed decisions and achieve meaningful operational impact where it matters most. 

Our shared mission is to deliver unrelenting excellence in everything we do, underpinned by integrity, curiosity, accountability and care.

About The Role

We are seeking experienced Close Protection Officers to join a collaborative security team supporting an Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) family and associated household members.

The role requires regular travel throughout the UK and occasional overnight stays. Depending on operational requirements, deployments may range from a single day to extended periods of one week or more.

Working as part of an established protective security team, you will be responsible for delivering close protection services, maintaining situational awareness, identifying emerging risks, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all household members.

This position operates on a shift rotation pattern.

While the role offers flexibility regarding candidates' location within the UK, the successful individual must be able to travel at short notice whenever operational needs require. Given the responsive nature of the position, applicants must have sufficient availability to undertake assignments as they arise and should not have competing full-time employment, security commitments, or other obligations that could limit their ability to deploy quickly.

Candidates are encouraged to carefully consider any professional, personal, or family commitments that may affect their availability, as a high degree of flexibility, responsiveness, and operational readiness is essential for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide close protection to principals during daily activities, travel, events, and residential movements.
• Conduct dynamic and formal risk assessments.
• Monitor environments for potential threats and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
• Support secure transportation and movement planning.
• Maintain a vigilant, professional, and unobtrusive presence.
• Coordinate effectively with family members, household staff, and wider security teams.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, incidents, and changing threat environments.
• Maintain accurate operational records, reports, and documentation.
• Provide practical personal security guidance to principals where required.
• Uphold strict confidentiality at all times.

Requirements

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Minimum three years' Close Protection experience.
• Minimum two years' experience supporting UHNW individuals or families.
• Strong understanding of threat assessment, protective security, and emergency response procedures.
• Ability to remain calm, composed, and professional in high-pressure situations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a wider team.
• Flexibility to work shifts, travel, and stay away from home when required.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Impeccable references and a strong professional reputation.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Experience in covert surveillance operations within a military or law enforcement environment

Additional Compliance Requirements

• Valid SIA Close Protection Licence.
• Evidence of SIA Close Protection Top-Up/Refresher Training, where applicable.
• Enhanced DBS certificate and any safeguarding documentation required for working in environments where children may be present.
• Valid medical qualification, such as FREC 3, FPOS, or equivalent.
• Full UK driving licence with a clean driving record and consent for DVLA checks.
• Verification of all licences, certifications, and eligibility documentation prior to engagement.

Benefits

Prevail Partners believes in recognising and rewarding our people. Our benefits package is designed to support your wellbeing, professional development, and life beyond work. Consultants engaged on this project will benefit from a range of deployment-related support and amenities, including:

• High-quality accommodation provided throughout the deployment period.
• Attractive Day rate 
• 20 days on / 10 days off rotation
• Accommodation provided (where applicable) 
• International travel opportunities
• Daily allowance and meals provided 
• Dedicated apps for timesheets, invoicing, and Rota management
• Reliable Monthly Payment Schedule
• Hassle-free digital timesheet submission
• Access to on-site amenities where available
• Work alongside highly experienced professionals
• Exposure to complex international projects and clients