In the world of executive protection (EP), stories of courage and successes often spotlight men, but history has shown us that women have been equally formidable in this space when given the chance. This was exactly the case recently when Guardian Professional Security, with Anton Kalaydjian at the helm, ran a large scale, all female team to protect a Royal family visiting the United States. Imagine a team of 16 women, chosen not for optics, but requested by the client and chosen by Guardian for their unique skill sets, resolve, training and experience, to protect a rather large Royal family. This detail was historic in that it had never been attempted or accomplished before by an all female team of this size in the U.S. It demonstrated that excellence in EP knows no gender.

For decades, EP has been a male-dominated industry. The “big guy in a suit” stereotype lingered, often shaping hiring decisions. But the industry has evolved. Today’s EP is a thinking person’s game—logistics, misdirection, covert operations, and careful planning. And females are not just stepping into these roles, they are excelling in them.
Let’s face it: some people in the industry still resist change, acting as gatekeepers and barriers to entry for women. Acknowledge it or not, it exists. I know because I have been in rooms where it has been talked about. But what exactly are the so called ‘gatekeepers’ protecting in this day and age? Female EP agents are not only being requested more often but are also proving their value in ways men simply cannot replicate. Their adaptability, perspective, and humble “go-getter” attitude are revitalizing the industry, especially when contrasted with the entitlement attitude some male agents bring to the table. Being prior military or law enforcement alone just doesn’t cut it anymore.

I’ve worked with many women in this industry and they are very inspiring. Some are CEOs of their own EP companies. Others are defensive tactics and firearms instructors, training law enforcement agencies nationwide. One is a professional bodybuilder, another a former MMA champion, and many have backgrounds in law enforcement along with extensive EP training. These women don’t just belong on EP teams—they enhance them in numerous ways. Not only can they go places where males can’t go, but they expand EP teams by bringing new looks and capabilities to existing teams. The possibilities are only restricted by the blinders over some EP managers eyes.

Personally, I was proud that four of the six female agents I recommended for this historic detail were selected. Of those four, two secured close protection roles on the Principal, one rose to a leadership position by handling logistics and personnel challenges, and the fourth played a critical role in managing sensitive area access. Watching these women not just break barriers but smash them, was very fulfilling and a confirmation to my belief that women belong in the EP sector. They redefined what it means to excel in this industry.

In my 40+ years in EP, I’ve heard hundreds of comments doubting women’s place in this field. My female colleagues have undoubtedly heard them thousands of times more. But this is 2025, and the industry is changing. Women are running EP companies, leading teams, and enhancing security programs. This historic detail wasn’t just a milestone but a wake-up call to those still holding onto the “Good Ole Boys Club” mindset; It’s time to step up or step aside. Women in EP are here to stay.

Written by Keith Ortiz, CPP with contributions by Nadia Daniel