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James Schimper
Security Professional
Langebaan
Summary
Security professional with a distinguished 16-year career in security, whom has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic acumen across ground, aerial, and maritime operations. The last 9 years have honed his expertise in the Mining/Extractive industry, with 4 years offshore. He excels in securing facilities, personnel, and assets in challenging African environments. As a General Supervisor at Ambatovy, he oversaw security operations, managed access control, CCTV, and strategic planning. His experience includes risk assessments, geopolitical analyses, tactical operations, and anti-piracy techniques. His tenure in the French Foreign Legion laid the foundation for his leadership and commitment to operational effectiveness.
A highly motivated professional with a diverse skillset and robust training background, I am seeking a challenging opportunity where I can make significant contributions. My commitment to continuous learning is evident through actively pursuing certifications like ISMI, CSMP (Level 6 Diploma), NEBOSH International General Certificate (results pending). This comprehensive foundation enables me to immediately enhance health and safety, and security frameworks, optimise risk mitigation, and bolster organisational resilience. I am eager to leverage my expertise to lead tactical initiatives, elevate organisational security, and maintain the highest ethical standards. Hard-working Supervisor with exceptional experience leading teams, delivering results and exceeding expectations. Creative and motivated leader adept at utilizing exceptional design and planning strengths to accomplish complex projects. Skilled in teaching new concepts and best practice strategies.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
13
13
Certifications
Work History
General Supervisor Security
Ambatovy
Toamasina, Moramanga
7 2022 - 7 2024
- Liaising with local gendarme to ensure safety of Ambatovy, its employees, and assets, adhering to Voluntary Principles of Security on Human Rights [VPSHR] to maintain ethical security practices.s.
- Conducted risk assessments in fuel delivery and fleet logistics which contributed to operational cost savings.
- Developed standard operating procedures and created scope of works for new projects including producing security management plans.
- Analyzed and investigated incidents alongside functional management and security supervisors
- Screened vendors and contractors before granting access to restricted areas within mall
- Conducted thorough investigations into reported incidents, identifying root causes and implementing preventive measures
- Oversaw incident reporting processes, maintaining accurate records for regulatory compliance purposes
- Led cross-functional teams in developing comprehensive business continuity plans for various operational scenarios
- Inspected security design features, installations, and programs to verify compliance with applicable standards and regulations
- Facilitated training sessions for employees on topics such as workplace violence prevention and emergency response procedures
- Oversaw routine maintenance of security equipment, ensuring optimal performance at all times
- Established strong relationships with community stakeholders, enhancing collaboration on local safety initiatives
- Coordinated crisis management efforts during critical incidents, effectively mitigating risks and minimizing disruptions to operations
- Reduced safety incidents by conducting regular risk assessments and addressing potential vulnerabilities
- Created procedures for identifying and tracking fraudulent activity with Excel
- Conducted regular audits of physical security measures, identifying areas for improvement and recommending appropriate solutions
- Managed access control systems, ensuring authorized entry to restricted areas while preventing unauthorized intrusions
- Implemented effective employee awareness programs to promote a culture of safety throughout the organization
- Monitored work of contractors in design, construction, and startup phases of security systems
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to maintain a safe environment for all employees and visitors
- Enhanced security measures by implementing innovative surveillance techniques and technologies
- Improved emergency response times through the development of efficient protocols and staff training programs
- Advised security team and conducted investigations of significant threats and loss or misappropriation of assets
- Championed a proactive approach to threat identification and mitigation, resulting in a significant reduction in overall safety incidents within the organization
- Optimized resource allocation, utilizing staffing strategies that maximized coverage while minimizing costs
- Collaborated with other departments to achieve company-wide objectives and goals effectively
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations by staying current on relevant laws, codes, and best practices
- Achieved cost savings by negotiating contracts with vendors and suppliers
- Led cross-functional teams to complete projects on time and within budget constraints
Security Senior Team Lead
Henderson Risk Limited | Kansanshi Mine, Zambia
Solwezi
06.2015 - 07.2022
- Executed administrative and logistical management of the guard force, ensuring seamless coordination and efficiency in security operations at Kansanshi Mine, one of the largest Copper mines in Africa, with an expansive 57 km perimeter.
- Led and managed 250-person security team, overseeing operations for both primary and secondary on-site security providers.
- Directed a comprehensive security program encompassing diverse areas, including helicopter rapid response, surveillance systems, perimeter security, access control, crisis management, anti-poaching measures, high-value asset transport, mobile patrols, and risk assessment.
- Conducted regular security operations in collaboration with local law enforcement, leveraging field intelligence and informant networks to proactively address potential threats.
- Planned and executed successful ambush operations to intercept and apprehend individuals attempting to breach mine security for the theft of high-value resources, such as copper ore and gold concentrate.
- Apprehended numerous intruders, including prominent criminal figures wanted by authorities and individuals involved in illegal wildlife poaching.
- Prepared and delivered daily security briefings to the primary client and reported directly to the FQM client's Mine Security Manager.
- Held responsibilities comparable to a Site Security Superintendent/Coordinator for the Gold Plant at FQM Kansanshi Mine, encompassing guard force management, gold vault security, perimeter security, access control, CCTV operations, screenings, searches, and overall protection from internal and external threats.
- Served as a security advisor in West Africa, conducting risk assessments and analyses for contracted companies, including ArcelorMittal (iron ore mine) and Golden Veroleum Liberia (palm oil producer), demonstrating a dedication to improving security practices beyond immediate operational responsibilities.
- Successfully completed projects within deadlines, ensuring timely delivery to clients without compromising quality standards.
- Developed high-performing team members through targeted training programs and one-on-one coaching.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, effectively prioritizing tasks to meet stakeholder expectations.
- Managed helicopter operations.
Maritime Security Team Leader
Bowline Defence Limited
Somali Coast
07.2013 - 05.2015
- Functioned at a managerial level, delivering armed security services across the expansive high-risk areas spanning the Red Sea's North- and Southbound regions, Gulf of Aden ‘IRTC’, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf ‘Strait of Hormuz’, Indian Ocean, and East African territories from Suez to Sri Lanka.
Maritime Security Team Leader
ESS & SA BV
Somali Coast
07.2011 - 07.2013
- Performed duties synonymous with the Maritime Security Team Leader role above.
Corporal | 2nd Regiment of Foreign Engineers / Sapeur / Explosive Ordinance & Demolition
French Foreign Legion
Saint Christol
05.2008 - 07.2011
- Held the rank of Corporal in the French Foreign Legion within the 2eme Regiment Etranger du Genie [2nd Regiment of Foreign Engineers / Sapeur / Explosive Ordinance & Demolition] under the command of the 27eme Brigade du Infanterie de la Montagne [27th Brigade of Mountain Infantry]
Education
High School Diploma -
Technical High School Sasolburg
South Africa 01.1996 - 12.2000
Skills
Security & Risk Management: Tactical operations, asset protection, close protection, situational awareness, surveillance, reconnaissance, risk assessment, mitigation, and geopolitical assessment
Technical Security: CCTV and security system design, integration, and perimeter security
Maritime Security: Operations, law, anti-piracy, and port security
Investigation & Response: Intelligence gathering, data analysis, internal/crime scene investigations, crisis/incident/emergency response
Tactical Skills: Access control, combat/non-combat/evasive driving, close-quarters combat, defensive tactics, weapons handling, drone operation, and small unit tactics
Management & Planning: Project and contract management, process improvement, SOP and SOW development, tactical/strategic planning, conflict resolution, crew/team management, security service providers management, crisis management
Operational Support: Fuel/fleet management, logistics/transport coordination, cost and budget control, reporting, international law compliance
Additional Expertise: Law enforcement collaboration, military operations, anti-poaching, training, and tech proficiency (MS Office, Adobe, 3D Paint)
Crisis Management
Budgeting and forecasting
Analytical Thinking
Privateinformation
No Criminal Record, Cape Town, OGUK 5 July 2026, Covid-19 & Yellow Fever, Married, 4 July 2032, English, Afrikaans, French, Code B, james.schimper82@gmail.com, +27 72 985 1151
Keycareerhighlights
- Demonstrated exceptional skills in apprehending intruders, including notorious crime figures sought by the Zambian government, effectively neutralising potential security threats.
- Spearheaded operations to apprehend poachers targeting Pangolins, a critically endangered species, showcasing an unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation and protection.
- Orchestrated a precision helicopter intervention team to apprehend illegal miners, showcasing strategic leadership in tackling high-stakes situations.
- Simultaneously served as a member of the helicopter intervention team and contributed significantly to the training of the team, emphasising a multifaceted skillset and leadership capabilities in ensuring a seamless and well-coordinated operation.
- Piloted large surveillance drones, executing successful operations to capture high-ranking individuals colluding with intruders, showcasing proficiency in utilising advanced technology for strategic purposes.
- Supervised ground team training initiatives, enhancing coordination capabilities during drone operations to optimise the integration of aerial and ground forces for maximum effectiveness.
- Conducted multiple in-depth investigations, collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to capture thieves, showcasing a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice.
Emotionalintelligencequotient
My emotional intelligence shines through my resilience, adaptability, and sound judgment, allowing me to thrive in dynamic security environments and make decisive choices under pressure. As a proactive problem-solver, I consistently go above and beyond, leveraging innovative solutions to mitigate risks and safeguard assets. My dedication, discipline, and strategic leadership drive me to align security operations with organisational goals. Additionally, I foster strong collaborations with diverse stakeholders and maintain an unwavering commitment to ethical practices, upholding the highest standards of integrity in all security endeavours.
Personal Qualifications
Senior Certificate / Matric; Technical High School
Training
- Private Security Training: International Security Management Institute [Currently enrolled]; CSMP [Certified Security Management Professional Level 6 Diploma]
- Advanced Israeli CPO; Int'l Security Instructors, Instructor: Albert Timen
- Occupational Health and Safety and Medical Training: NEBOSH; International General Certificate [Exam written, Results pending ETA September 2024]
- FPOS-I; American Heart Association
- First Aid Level 3; First Aid at Sea / Maritime Training Center of Panama
- Offshore and Maritime Training: OPITO BOSIET; Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training
- OPITO Initial Rigging
- Ship Security Officer; Unicorn Training School
- National Rifle Association Proficiency; Grail Solutions
- STCW95; Maritime Training Centre of Panama
- Counter Piracy Best Management Practices Level 3; Grail Solutions
- Drone Training: VLOS & EVLOS Training [Multirotor Drone]; Prowings
- RPAS Licensure [Multirotor & Fixed-Wing]; Prowings, Expired
- Military Training: CP00 Infantry Combat | FRF2 Marksman | Arctic, Desert, Jungle, & Urban Warfare | Close Quarter Combat | Hand-to-Hand & Knife Training | Explosives & Ordinance Disposal [EOD] | Demolition, Search, & Disposal of IEDs / Mines | Basic Explosives Engineering & Survival Techniques [CP04] | Minex2 [Explosives / Demining Engineering] | Infiltration & Extraction | Section Leader Driver & Armoured Vehicle Driving Instructor [Evasive & Tactical Driving; Vast Experience with various French Military Vehicles] | Combat Life Saver | Advanced Military Skiing & Mountaineering [BASM]
Accomplishments
- Demonstrated exceptional skills in apprehending intruders, including notorious crime figures sought by the Zambian government, effectively neutralising potential security threats.
- Spearheaded operations to apprehend poachers targeting Pangolins, a critically endangered species, showcasing an unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation and protection.
- Orchestrated a precision helicopter intervention team to apprehend illegal miners, showcasing strategic leadership in tackling high-stakes situations.
- Simultaneously served as a member of the helicopter intervention team and contributed significantly to the training of the team, emphasising a multifaceted skillset and leadership capabilities in ensuring a seamless and well-coordinated operation.
- Piloted large surveillance drones, executing successful operations to capture high-ranking individuals colluding with intruders, showcasing proficiency in utilising advanced technology for strategic purposes.
- Supervised ground team training initiatives, enhancing coordination capabilities during drone operations to optimise the integration of aerial and ground forces for maximum effectiveness.
- Conducted multiple in-depth investigations, collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to capture thieves, showcasing a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice.
- Conducted multiple in-depth investigations on fuel delivery and fleet improvement which resulted in safer employees and cost savings.
- Recruited and trained 250 new staff members in effective security measures and guard techniques.
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop data tracking spreadsheets.
Software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Excel
Safety Culture
Adobe Acrobat Pro
Online Intelligence
Tracking Software
Languages
Afrikaans
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
French
Upper intermediate (B2)
Certification
Military Formation
Timeline
Certified Security Management Professional
02-2026
OPITO BOSIET
07-2024
NEBOSH International General Certificate
07-2024
OPITO Initial Rigging
07-2024
Security Management
02-2021
Advanced Close Protection
06-2015
Security Senior Team Lead
Henderson Risk Limited | Kansanshi Mine, Zambia
06.2015 - 07.2022
Maritime Security Team Leader
Bowline Defence Limited
07.2013 - 05.2015
Emergency First Response / FPOS-I
03-2013
Basic First Aid STCW95
02-2012
Best Management Practices 3 - To deter piracy
08-2011
Ship Security Officer
08-2011
Maritime Security Team Leader
ESS & SA BV
07.2011 - 07.2013
Combat Augmentation
05-2011
Certificate of Commendation
10-2010
Military Formation
09-2010
Corporal | 2nd Regiment of Foreign Engineers / Sapeur / Explosive Ordinance & Demolition
French Foreign Legion
05.2008 - 07.2011
High School Diploma -
Technical High School Sasolburg
01.1996 - 12.2000
General Supervisor Security
Ambatovy
7 2022 - 7 2024
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