Former Secret Service veteran joins P4 to lead executive protection
The P4 Companies (P4), based in Downers Grove and serving the greater Chicago area, recently announced the addition of Derek Mayer, a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Secret Service, to its executive team.
Mayer will serve as chief security officer and vice president of Executive Protection, bringing unparalleled expertise to P4’s growing security services and Executive Protection Division.
The December 2024 murder of United Healthcare’s CEO has prompted corporate America to reassess executive security measures. In response, P4 is at the forefront of Executive Protection, setting new industry standards by employing elite professionals to safeguard corporate leaders, dignitaries, and other high-profile individuals.
“Derek’s addition to our Executive Team is a game-changer for P4 and our clients,” said Steve Vitale, President of P4 Companies. “His unmatched expertise from decades of protecting our nation’s highest leaders sets a new bar for our Executive Protection Division. As threats become more complex and targeted, Derek’s caliber of experiences will ensure we’re delivering elite, proactive protection strategies, tailored to the evolving risks facing today’s executives and dignitaries.”
Mayer previously served as Deputy Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Chicago field office. His deep-rooted relationships with the Chicago law enforcement community will further enhance P4’s capabilities in delivering top-tier security services.
“The landscape of Executive Protection has shifted dramatically in recent months, making it essential for high-profile individuals to take heightened precautions,” Mayer said. “I am eager to apply my experience and skill set to P4, strengthening our commitment to safeguarding corporate leaders and dignitaries while expanding our Executive Protection Division.”
P4 offers a boutique approach to security, tailoring protection services to the unique needs of each client. These services include personal and group bodyguarding, secure transportation, advance scouting, armed protection, comprehensive threat assessments, and family security solutions.
Mayer’s extensive background includes protecting U.S. presidents, first ladies, vice presidents, and visiting foreign dignitaries. He also played key leadership roles in the past three presidential elections and oversaw security operations for the 2024 Republican and Democratic National Conventions in Milwaukee and Chicago, in addition to the 2020 DNC in Milwaukee.
For more information about P4, visit P4companies.com.