Close Protection CV & Portfolio Guide (2026)
A strong CV and professional portfolio are essential for UK Close Protection operatives in 2026. Whether you’re applying to a CP company, pitching as a freelancer, or exploring international opportunities, your CV needs to reflect not just qualifications, but experience, skills, and professionalism.
This guide explains how to structure your CV, what to include in your portfolio, and how to make yourself stand out to clients and agencies.
📝 Crafting a Professional Close Protection CV
Key sections to include:
- Personal Details – Name, location, contact info, LinkedIn profile
- Professional Summary – Short paragraph highlighting experience, licences, and special skills
- Qualifications & Licences – SIA Close Protection Licence, FREC/FROS/FPOS certifications, Level 3 CPO training
- Experience – List CP roles, agencies, freelance assignments, high-profile clients (with consent), international work
- Special Skills – Defensive driving, firearms (if applicable), surveillance, risk assessment, medical training
- References – Include at least 2 professional references from previous employers or clients
Tips:
- Keep it concise: ideally 1–2 pages
- Use professional formatting and bullet points for readability
- Avoid including sensitive client names in publicly visible CVs
- Tailor your CV for the type of work: UK agencies vs. international EP roles
📂 Building a Strong Portfolio
Your portfolio demonstrates proof of experience, not just qualifications.
What to include:
- Training Certificates – SIA CPO licence, medical training, driving courses, advanced tactical courses
- Work Examples – Event security plans (sanitised), logistics planning, risk assessments
- References & Testimonials – Written endorsements from clients or managers
- Photographs / Video Evidence – Only professional, safe, and client-approved visuals
- Special Projects – Overseas deployments, VIP travel operations, or bespoke assignments
Tips:
- Keep your portfolio digital and easily shareable (PDF or secure cloud link)
- Ensure all sensitive data is anonymised
- Include a table of contents for easy navigation
🌍 Tailoring for International Roles
If you’re targeting EP opportunities abroad:
- Highlight UK CPO credentials, as international employers value regulated training
- Emphasise medical, driving, and tactical skills
- Include multi-lingual or cultural skills if applicable
- List international assignments or travel experience
💡 Tips for Freelancers
For freelance operatives, your CV & portfolio also act as a marketing tool:
- Include clear contact methods and availability
- Add a one-page portfolio summary for clients to quickly scan
- Keep a “light” version for online platforms and a full version for agencies or serious clients
- Regularly update after each assignment, certification, or training
⭐ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Listing outdated training or expired licences
- Sharing sensitive client information
- Long, text-heavy CVs with poor formatting
- Focusing only on personal experience without highlighting skills or outcomes
- Forgetting to tailor for UK vs international roles
📝 Conclusion
A professional CV and portfolio are key tools to secure work as a UK CPO in 2026.
Focus on concise, professional presentation, include all licences, medical training, and experience, and tailor your CV/portfolio for each role or client type.
Keeping these documents up to date ensures you remain competitive, whether applying to agencies, freelancing, or pursuing international EP opportunities.
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