David Whitaker
London,United Kingdom
Summary
Highly skilled security professional with extensive expertise in Family Office Security and Residential Security Teams (RST). Demonstrates proficiency in Executive Protection and UHNW Lifestyle Protection, ensuring the safety and privacy of high-net-worth individuals. Adept at Security Operations Management, offering Luxury Chauffeur Services and Estate & Residence Security with a focus on Risk Assessment & Mitigation. Proven track record in Team Leadership, Asset Protection, Access Control & Guest Management, and Incident Response. Strong capabilities in Stakeholder Management and Security Consultancy, adhering to Luxury Hospitality Standards. Committed to advancing security strategies that enhance client satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Residential Security Team Manager
Private Family Office & Residence, Mayfair
Mayfair
2025.03 - 2026.05
- Responsible for the management and deployment of a dedicated five-man Residential Security Team providing 24/7 protection to a prominent private family office and residence in Mayfair. Oversee all operational, personnel and client-facing aspects of the contract, ensuring the highest standards of security, professionalism and discretion.
- Implemented staff rota schedules to ensure adequate coverage during peak times.
- Delegated responsibilities efficiently amongst team members.
- Boosted morale by recognising and rewarding exceptional work.
Head of Security
Prestigious Private Members Club, Mayfair
Mayfair
2023.06 - 2026.05
- Lead all security operations within an exclusive private members club environment catering to high-profile members, international clientele and distinguished guests. Responsible for access control, member security, VIP arrivals, operational oversight and maintaining exceptional service standards.
- Oversaw implementation of advanced security systems to enhance building safety.
- Enhanced site-wide security by performing regular risk assessments.
- Increased staff awareness of security issues through delivery of regular briefings and updates.
Private Chauffeur & Executive Protection Operative
UHNW Clients
2023.01 - 2026.05
- Provide discreet chauffeur and executive protection services to UHNW individuals and families throughout the United Kingdom and internationally.
- Extensive experience operating luxury vehicle fleets including Rolls-Royce, Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz and Maybach vehicles whilst managing complex travel, logistics and security requirements.
Founder & Director
Basuto Security Ltd
2023.01 - 2026.05
- Founder and Director of a specialist security consultancy providing Close Protection, Residential Security, Surveillance, Chauffeur Services and Asset Protection to UHNW clients, family offices and private organisations.
- Responsible for strategic growth, operational management, personnel deployment, contract delivery and client relationship management.
- Key responsibilities include:
- Management of high-value security contracts across London and the South East.
- Recruitment, training and development of security personnel.
- Creation and implementation of security policies, operational procedures and client-specific protocols.
- Liaison with principals, Chiefs of Staff, Executive Assistants, Estate Managers and private household staff.
- Delivery of bespoke security solutions tailored to individual client requirements.
bosun/chase boat captain
Superyacht Industry
2012.01 - 2018.01
- Served aboard prestigious superyachts ranging from 56m to 86m, delivering exceptional service to UHNW owners, family members and guests.
- Roles included vessel operations, guest services, chase boat captaincy, executive transportation and security support.
Skills
- Family Office Security
- Residential Security Teams (RST)
- Executive Protection
- UHNW Lifestyle Protection
- Security Operations Management
- Luxury Chauffeur Services
- Estate & Residence Security
- Risk Assessment & Mitigation
- Team Leadership
- Asset Protection
- Access Control & Guest Management
- Incident Response
- Stakeholder Management
- Security Consultancy
- Luxury Hospitality Standards
Certification
- Full UK Driving Licence
- SIA Close Protection Licence
- UK Shotgun Certificate Holder
- RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
- Level 3 First Aid at Work
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- Founder and Director of Basuto Security Ltd, delivering bespoke security solutions to UHNW individuals, family offices and private organisations.
- Successfully secured and manage a 24/7 Residential Security Team contract for a prominent Mayfair-based private family office and residence, overseeing a team of five security professionals.
- Lead security operations within an exclusive Mayfair private members club, ensuring the highest standards of discretion, member experience and operational excellence.
- Extensive experience protecting high-profile individuals, international business figures, family offices and private principals throughout the United Kingdom and overseas.
- Over 14 years of experience across executive protection, residential security, luxury hospitality, superyachts and high-end client service environments.
- Trusted to manage sensitive operations, confidential information and high-value assets within complex and demanding UHNW settings.
Timeline
Residential Security Team Manager
Private Family Office & Residence, Mayfair
2025.03 - 2026.05
Head of Security
Prestigious Private Members Club, Mayfair
2023.06 - 2026.05
Private Chauffeur & Executive Protection Operative
UHNW Clients
2023.01 - 2026.05
Founder & Director
Basuto Security Ltd
2023.01 - 2026.05
bosun/chase boat captain
Superyacht Industry
2012.01 - 2018.01