What's happened
Recent security incidents and threats have prompted US companies like Starbucks, Disney, and Tyson Foods to enhance executive protection. Proxy filings now frequently mention increased security protocols, reflecting a shift in corporate risk management following high-profile violence and security concerns in 2024-2026.
What's behind the headline?
The escalation in corporate security reflects a fundamental shift in how companies perceive risk. No longer are executive protections limited to high-risk zones; now, firms are adopting around-the-clock security measures, including armed agents and surveillance. This trend indicates a broader recognition that threats are pervasive, driven by increased political polarization, social media mobilization, and recent violent events. The move also suggests that companies view their leadership as assets requiring protection from both physical threats and reputational risks. The heightened security protocols may influence corporate governance, with boards increasingly involved in risk assessments. However, this shift could also deepen the divide between corporate elites and the broader public, as security becomes more privatized and opaque. The next phase will likely see further integration of security into corporate culture, potentially impacting executive mobility and decision-making, especially in politically sensitive environments. Overall, this trend signals a new era of corporate risk management, where security is a core concern rather than an afterthought, and it will likely accelerate as threats continue to evolve.
What the papers say
The articles from Business Insider UK and The Guardian highlight how recent violent incidents and security breaches have prompted companies like Starbucks, Disney, and Tyson Foods to increase executive protection. Business Insider UK reports that proxy filings now frequently mention 'executive security' or 'corporate security,' rising from 69 in 2023 to 87 in 2025, reflecting a significant industry shift. The Guardian emphasizes that these measures are driven by fears of violence and social media-driven threats, with security firms briefing more boards than ever before. Both sources agree that the risk environment has become pervasive, with security protocols now encompassing 24/7 armed protection and surveillance, blurring the lines between corporate and personal security. The articles also note that this trend is a response to recent violent events, such as the Luigi Mangione trial and a shooting at Blackstone Park Avenue, which shattered previous assumptions about corporate leaders' safety. While some executives welcome enhanced security, critics argue it may deepen societal divides and reflect a growing privatization of protection for the elite.
How we got here
The rise in corporate security measures follows a series of violent incidents and security breaches involving high-profile executives, including the Luigi Mangione trial and a shooting at Blackstone Park Avenue. These events shattered assumptions that corporate leaders are insulated from violence, prompting companies to reassess risks and implement 24/7 protection protocols.
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