Modern life
Kate Bright, 44, a former PA from London, is on a mission to make the job she loves open to everyone
NEW VIEW
If the word ‘bodyguard’ conjures up an image of a burly man in sunglasses, think again. The number of women in the industry is small, but demand is growing. By mirroring the demographic of the people they’re protecting or posing as nannies or assistants, they stand out less. Women are often chosen to protect children, while some clients favour females for cultural reasons.
Jetting into a global music festival by helicopter, looking down at the colourful crowds, is the dream. But even though I was dressed like all the other festivalgoers and my team and I blended in seamlessly, I was carrying a two-way radio and staying sober throughout. I was there in my job as a close protection officer – abodyguard in layman’s terms – looking out for my wealthy client, who wanted to be just like any other attendee.
Blonde and six feet tall, I could pass as her athletic friend. And while those of us looking after her couldn’t let our hair down, we made sure she could. Protecting clients at places like Ascot, Wimbledon, Henley Royal Regatta or other events around the globe is just one aspect of the work I do. What I call ‘invisible security’ is my company’s speciality. Whether they’re a high-profile entertainer or an unrecognisable philanthropist, we help them blend in rather than stand out.
Working for 15 years as an executive PA and chief of staff to high-net-worth families, I was increasingly intrigued by the organisation, planning and preparation of the security teams I worked alongside. In 2013, I gained my Security Industry Close Protection Licence. The basic course is 160 hours of classroom learning and practical exercises, including first aid and training on handling high-pressure situations.
Founding a business
In 2015, I set up my own security concierge company, UMBRA International. As well as a team in London, we’ve built up a network of thousands of experts we can call on around the world. Our job is not only to physically protect our clients from risks such as stalking or kidnapping, but also to handle the digital, emotional and reputational dangers they face. I take a holistic approach, thinking of every aspect of how they can stay safe, from keeping themselves fit and healthy to teaching them how to trust their gut instinct. We focus on building teams that will protect them on a long-term basis.
I’m a risk hunter. I look for risks that haven’t yet happened. That constant change is what keeps me and the team on our toes. By staying at the top of my game, I’m ready to cope if the unexpected happens. I go to the gym three times a week, practise meditation and gratitude, and have hyperba
