Open to opportunities

James Collett

@jamescollett

Message

Accomplished security professional with 25+ years of experience and small business owner.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a part-time, remote role where I can leverage my extensive security expertise to support global programs.

Seasoned and decorated security and leadership professional with over 25 years of experience leading elite teams in the U.S. military and the Diplomatic Security Service. Demonstrated expertise in strategic security planning, operational leadership, and policy development across high-threat, global environments—including multiple combat zone deployments. Proven track record of managing large-scale operations, critical threat responses, and multi-million-dollar contracts with precision and accountability. A respected leader known for mentoring teams, developing future leaders, and driving mission success through decisive action, sound judgment, and calm execution under pressure.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Acting Resident Agent-in-Charge

US Diplomatic Security Service

Dec 2018 - Oct 2023 (4 years 10 months)

Structured security protocols and provided critical advisory services to diplomatic clients. Focused on risk and threat mitigation strategies to safeguard personnel and assets.

Security Protocols Advisory Risk Mitigation Diplomatic Security

Branch Chief

US Embassy

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 6 months)

Developed embassy security infrastructure, emergency communications, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Led incident response during attacks, ensuring personnel safety and operational continuity.

SOP Development Incident Response Crisis Management

Tactics Instructor

Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC)

Jan 2012 - Present (13 years 6 months)

Delivered comprehensive training in crisis response, close-quarters tactics, and emergency procedures. Trained over 2,000 federal agents, enhancing their operational readiness and tactical proficiency.

Crisis Response Close Quarters Tactics Instructor Law Enforcement Training Curriculum Development

Special Agent

diplomatic security service

Jun 2002 - Oct 2023 (21 years 4 months)

Leadership roles in high-threat environments. Led crisis response operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, including the closure of the U.S. Consulate in Basra under attack and oversight of an $800M contract in Baghdad. Trained 2,000+ agents at FLETC in tactics and protective operations. Proven record in security planning, team leadership, and mission execution.

Communication Skills Project Management Problem Solving Leadership Security Policies Risk Management Risk Assessment Risk Analysis Risk Mitigation Crisis Management Critical Thinking Crisis Response

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Joint Special Operations University

Senior Enlisted Academy, Military Leadership

2022 - 2024

Grade: 3.9

Activities and societies: Participated in physical fitness training, and team building exercises with US Special Operations Forces.

Attended the Senior Enlisted Academy at Joint Special Operations University. This program focused on advanced leadership and strategic operations for senior military personnel.

Clemson University

BBA in Sociology, Sociology

1998 - 2000

Grade: 3.1

Activities and societies: Full-time student, and worked full-time (40 hours/week).

Completed a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Sociology. Also pursued a minor in Political Science (concentrated in National Security) gaining a comprehensive understanding of social structures and political systems.