Intelligence in Action: A Strategic Approach to Security

A Smarter Approach to Intelligence
 

In today’s volatile threat landscape, organizations must quickly separate real dangers from background noise. From geopolitical instability and global terrorism to economic fluctuations, security risks are constantly evolving. The challenge is not just collecting data but knowing what matters and when. The most effective intelligence programs anticipate threats and connect the dots, identifying patterns and delivering actionable insights that drive informed decision-making.
 

A protective intelligence program relies on a multi-layered framework that combines technology, expert analysis and real-time response in key technology categories:
 

1. Threat Monitoring
   Effective intelligence provides organizations of every size with real-time situational awareness that safeguards critical infrastructure, personnel, facilities, assets and reputation. To accurately assess risks, analysts continuously scan multiple sources, including open-source intelligence (OSINT), social media and deep and dark web platforms. Advanced tools and investigative techniques identify credible threats while filtering out irrelevant information. When a valid threat is identified, rapid response is critical—within a five- to ten-minute window—allowing organizations to make swift, well-informed decisions and mitigate risks before they escalate.

2. Travel Risk Management
   Security risks do not end at the office door. Executives, employees and high-profile individuals face unique challenges while traveling, making intelligence a critical component of risk mitigation. A comprehensive intelligence methodology includes risk assessments, pre-travel briefings and real-time monitoring throughout a trip. This supports individuals and organizations with the situational awareness required to navigate unfamiliar environments safely.

3. Deep-Dive Research and Strategic Intelligence 
   Real-time monitoring captures immediate threats, but strategic intelligence adds critical depth—examining vast and complex data sets to identify patterns, vulnerabilities and long-term risks. This level of analysis provides organizations with the foresight required to shape proactive strategies, align resources and prepare for potential risks. Strategic intelligence supports more informed decision-making and helps build resilience in the face of evolving threats.

4. Customized Intelligence Communication
   No two organizations are the same. Intelligence outputs must reflect that reality with communication tailored to align with corporate culture and stakeholder needs. Whether intelligence is delivered through formalized reports, dashboards or real-time updates, a customized approach helps deliver insights are relevant, actionable and seamlessly integrated into existing security frameworks.
    

The People Behind the Intelligence
At the core of a strong intelligence program is a deep bench of subject matter experts, each rigorously vetted and equipped with intelligence experience, formal training and sharp analytical skills. Recognizing that intelligence is not static, continuous training—both academic and practical—must be a cornerstone of an effective intelligence methodology. Analysts continually hone their skills to investigate, interpret and act on complex intelligence in an evolving threat landscape.

Beyond training, staying ahead of threats requires a deep understanding of both the global security landscape and the evolving needs of an organization. Maintaining close engagement with stakeholders helps intelligence teams anticipate how shifts in business priorities, leadership focus and security requirements may impact risk profiles. 

The most effective intelligence professionals do not work in silos—they collaborate across disciplines to deliver a coordinated, proactive security approach. As an example, by working closely with executive protection teams, intelligence analysts provide real-time insights that inform protective measures before, during and after travel or high-risk engagements. Likewise, intelligence teams support investigative units by uncovering patterns of fraudulent activity, insider threats and emerging risks that require deeper analysis. This seamless integration ensures that intelligence is not just an isolated function but a force multiplier, strengthening protective strategies across an organization and providing a robust, adaptive defense against an unpredictable world.
 

The Bottom Line: Intelligence as a Competitive Advantage
Intelligence goes beyond threat prevention by supporting organizations from any industry to anticipate risks, safeguard assets and navigate uncertainty with more confidence. Organizations that integrate intelligence into their strategic security planning gain a critical edge and enhance resilience in an increasingly unpredictable world. 

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About Sean Schuhriemen 
Sean Schuhriemen is Vice President of Intelligence and GSOC Management for Allied Universal® Enhanced Protective Services. A protective intelligence practitioner with extensive global expertise, he brings nearly three decades of combined intelligence experience with the U.S. Navy, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the private sector.

At Allied Universal, Schuhriemen has developed a comprehensive intelligence program to support both internal and client stakeholders. His work includes managing embedded teams, delivering GSOC and intelligence training and consulting, and leading the development of the company’s Center for Protective Intelligence. He specializes in the creation, sustainment and professionalization of intelligence and operations center programs—providing subject matter expertise in documentation, training, mentorship and quality assurance. Schuhriemen has been instrumental in developing intelligence and GSOC programs for many Fortune 200 companies. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of La Verne and pursued a master’s degree in forensic psychology.