In this episode, Mark Ledlow is joined by Benjamin Whitfield, a seasoned security professional with a military and agency background and a former CIA. They discuss Ben's transition from being an executive in Silicon Valley to an independent consultant, and delve into the complexities of the security industry. Key topics include the role of Chief Security Officers, the importance of sales in security, and the need for risk-based assessment. They also explore emerging trends in security, the impact of the new administration, and the importance of continuing education for security professionals.

Learn about all this and more in this episode of The Fearless Mindset Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building relationships is crucial for ensuring security programs are funded and supported.
   
• The role of a Chief Security Officer (CSO) involves significant political and sales skills.
   
• Proper risk assessments tailored to the company culture are essential for effective security programs.
   
• The executive protection industry's future might see growth due to increasing threats and new economic sectors like cryptocurrency.
   
• Ongoing education and adaptation to emerging trends and technologies are vital for security professionals.

QUOTES

• "It's all sales... Your job really is to advocate for how do you protect people, facilities, operations as much as possible given what the political climate is in your company."
   
• "If you build a program that meets the absolute corporate need, your job isn't going away."
   
• "In Silicon Valley, I'll stereotype. I'm just the kid wearing the hoodie. You're the kid wearing the hoodie who's now worth, you know, a billion dollars."
   
• "There are multiple ways where a company can provide, can have security for its senior most executives."
   
• "The CSO chair is, you're playing politics, you're fighting for budget with everybody else."

Get to know more about Benjamin Whitfield through the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminwhitfield/

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