Executive Protection Is About to Become Big Business After UnitedHealthcare CEO Shooting
Major companies are reassessing executive protection protocols after UnitedHealthcare (NYSE: UNH) CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot outside a Manhattan hotel, security experts say.
Thompson, 50, was killed Wednesday morning near the Hilton Midtown while heading to an investor conference. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch called it a “premeditated” attack, with evidence showing the gunman “lying in wait” before shooting Thompson from behind.
Read: Insurers Scrub Executive Photos After UnitedHealthcare CEO Killing
Although Thompson had an assigned security detail for his New York trip, they were not present during the attack. His wife later told NBC News he had received threats, though she was uncertain of the details.
Shell casings found at the scene bore three inscriptions — “deny,” “defend” and “depose” — leading investigators to examine possible connections to insurance industry practices, ABC News reported.
Security industry sources told CNN that several major healthcare providers have increased protection for their executives since the shooting. While high-level corporate executives typically receive company-arranged security services, the incident has prompted a broader review of safety measures.
And it’s not just the healthcare industry that’s on the lookout for better executive protection companies.
“This woke up some people,” said Christopher Innace, owner of Pro Protection Security, on Gothamist. He reported hearing from executives who previously resisted security details but are now reconsidering their position.
Security costs for high-ranking CEOs range from $175,000 to $225,000 annually, depending on threat levels, according to Aaron Jackson, owner of Finest Executive Protection and a former NYPD officer.
Amazon and BlackRock both posted vice president positions for executive protection last week, as companies reassess security protocols following the attack.
Information for this story was found via the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
