The Pulse Employee Newsletter
July 2025: Issue 48
Our newsletter contains stories about our clients, vendors and employees. If you have a story to share, email marketing@protossecurity.com. This month, we’re excited to announce our 17th group of Unite in Action Award recipients. Read on to find out who the winners are!
Protos Academy Recap
In June, Protos Academy brought together team members in sales and enterprise accounts for a dynamic, four-day virtual training experience that blended strategic insights. Designed to deepen understanding of our services and enhance cross-functional collaboration, the event featured interactive sessions led by department leaders from Sales, Product, Legal, Operations, IT, Marketing and more.
Each day began with a leadership welcome that set the tone for the day. On Day one, CEO Mark Hjelle shared opening remarks that emphasized the company’s vision and commitment to excellence. CRO Peter Platten and SVP of Sales and Enterprise Accounts Matt Shedlock followed, energizing the audience with a clear sense of direction for the team. The rest of the day was dedicated to “Deeper Salesforce” sessions – an in-depth, demo-driven series. The day concluded with a comprehensive Vendor Management overview, reinforcing procurement and partner strategy best practices.
The second day began with a financial leadership welcome from CFO Tony Escamilla, followed by a series of sessions dedicated to sales support tools and enablement programs as well as finance and legal team overviews. On day three, SVP of National Operations Dan Arnold kicked off the agenda focused on product and operations. Additional sessions reviewed our guarding operations, quality management and specialized services. COO Mike Jacobs kicked off the final day. The final sessions dived into IT, off-duty operations, brand messaging updates, project management and Project Unite details.
More than just training, Protos Academy offered an opportunity for team members to connect, ask questions and learn directly from company experts and leadership. The experience not only deepened functional knowledge but also reinforced the value of working collaboratively across departments to achieve our common goal: delivering best-in-class security services to clients nationwide.
To support continued learning and engagement, we’ve recorded all the sessions from Protos Academy.
The presentations and materials are available for everyone to access on the Intranet in the Protos Academy Library section under Quick Links. Whether you were able to attend live or want to revisit a session, we encourage you to take advantage of these tools.
Unite in Action Award Nomination Form
Help Us Choose Our Next Unite in Action Award Recipients: (Who do you want to nominate…?)
Any employee within the organization (yes, that includes you!) can nominate someone for the Unite in Action Award. In fact, we need your help to make this award happen. Please nominate your colleagues and peers as you recognize them aligning with one or more of our values. An explanation of each value is below:
- Stay Curious: We keep learning and discovering how to improve, which sometimes means changing the way we do things.
- Build Relationships: We value the trust between our colleagues, clients, vendors and security personnel to strengthen camaraderie.
- Take Ownership: We champion self-accountability and push boundaries to achieve shared success.
- Be Principled: We show integrity in every decision and always do the right thing.
If you feel that a team member has gone above and beyond and displayed one or more of these values, make sure to let us know! The Unite in Action Awards will be announced monthly, but we always accept nominations through the Unite in Action Award Form.
Unite in Action Award Winners
The Unite in Action Awards will be presented to up to four employees each month. These individuals will be nominated by their peers or managers as someone who embodies our values. Recipients receive the Unite in Action Award trophy and a branded gift!
Congratulations to our winners… drumroll please…
Deserae Mack, Key Accounts Manager
Protos Security
Nominated by: Britt Killian
Reason:
Deserae’s leadership and dedication on a recent high stakes, $1M+ opportunity with a major healthcare system client exemplify her commitment to customer excellence. This complex engagement involved negotiating a new Master Service Agreement, multiple healthcare-specific addendums, and two detailed, job-specific Statements of Work.
When challenges emerged during the contracting process, Deserae immediately stepped up. She proactively convened a cross-functional call with the ODLE agency, the client’s security team, and ODS operations. Her initiative helped shift the conversation away from protracted redlines and toward productive problem-solving. By facilitating direct communication, Deserae effectively aligned the client’s theoretical expectations with the realities of ODLE’s service delivery. She bridged the gaps with clarity and precision.
She then went a step further by delivering thorough (color-coded!!!) call notes to Legal, ensuring that every contract revision would be accurate and aligned with the call. Her attention to detail and commitment to collaboration were key to bringing this deal across the finish line. Where others may have lost hope and become frustrated with the process, she gained momentum!
Deserae didn’t just manage the process; she owned it. Thanks to her efforts, the customer enters this partnership with crystal-clear expectations and full confidence in our delivery. This is a huge win for us and most importantly, for the client. Deserae, thank you for driving this deal with such excellence, collaboration and integrity.
Rachel Richey, Director of Human Resources
Protos Off-Duty Services
Nominated by: Dillon White
Reason:
Since the acquisition of Summit into the Protos family, Rachel Richey has gone above and beyond to ensure that the team feels welcomed, supported and integrated. From day one, Rachel has been intentional about building genuine relationships with the team, providing thoughtful support across a wide range of needs and challenges.
She has approached this transition with curiosity and care, taking the time to understand how things were previously done while consistently asking thoughtful questions. This has allowed her to identify solutions and pathways that not only honor past practices but also align with Protos’ broader mission and vision.
Rachel is always quick to respond when help is needed, and she leads with a team-first mindset—focused not just on her own success, but on the success of everyone around her. Her partnership has been invaluable, and it’s clear that she sees her role in HR as one of true collaboration.
In a world where having a reliable, engaged HR partner is rare, Rachel stands out. For all these reasons, I believe she is incredibly deserving of the Unite in Action award.
OUR EVENTS
What’s been happening lately across the organization?
Recent Events
June 16-19
IACLEA’s premier event for campus law enforcement and public safety was held in Atlanta, GA. The event featured multiple general sessions with subject matter experts, over 45 breakout sessions, hands-on demonstrations, an expo with the latest in products and services and valuable networking with peers.
June 23-25
The National Retail Federation’s (NRF) Protect Conference took place in Grapevine, TX and brought together retail leaders for expert insights, new solutions and cutting-edge tools to navigate the complexities of retail security.
June 23-26
The National Sheriff’s Association (NSA) held its annual conference in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Upcoming Events
August 19-21
Robbery Investigators of Texas (RIOT) seeks to promote and enhance the partnerships that exist between law enforcement and private industry while pursuing a collaborative investigative strategy in criminal investigations. They accomplish their mission by hosting the annual National Law Enforcement and Corporate Crimes Convention in destination locations across the State of Texas. The 2025 National Law Enforcement and Corporate Crimes Convention (N-LECCC) will be held in Arlington, Texas.
Important Observances in July
Independence Day – July 4
Each year on July 4, Americans commemorate the historic moment in 1776 when the Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence. This pivotal act marked the beginning of the United States as a sovereign nation, declaring freedom from British rule and setting the foundation for a new democratic republic.
International Security Officers Day – July 24
On July 24, we honor the dedication and vigilance of security officers across the globe. These individuals work tirelessly, around the clock, to ensure our safety and protect our communities. Thank you, security professionals, for your unwavering commitment to keeping us secure!
FEATURED NEWS ARTICLE
Kris Vece Elected to the Loss Prevention Foundation’s Executive Committee
The Loss Prevention Foundation (LPF) is pleased to announce the election of Kris Vece and Rick Peck as its newest Executive Committee members. Both long-time supporters and board members of the LPF, Vece, Vice President of Enterprise Accounts at Protos, and Peck, Senior Vice President at The TJX Companies, each hold the LPC designation and have served the LPF family—and the broader loss prevention community—for many years. Vece makes history as the first woman elected to the committee, bringing years of industry leadership and advocacy for professional education in loss prevention.
Employee Spotlight
Joe Coughlan
Field Operations Manager – Protos Security
How long have you been with the company?
I started with Protos in March 2023.
What is your current job title?
Field Operations Manager
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Golfing, fishing, catching up with friends, checking out a brewery with my wife and spending time in South Philadelphia at an Eagles or Phillies game.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
We frequent the Jersey and Delaware beaches. Anywhere near water is a good spot to be.
What is your favorite food?
I rarely say no to steak or a cheeseburger.
What is your favorite band, artist, or music genre?
I regularly listen to country music. Kenny Chesney, Luke Combs, Zac Bryan and Old Dominion to name a few. I am a fan of the oldies and rock and roll as well.
What is your favorite book?
Anything by James Patterson or Don Winslow as of late.
Do you have any pets?
Yes, we have a 3-year-old Retriever/Sheppard rescue named Ravioli.
Any interesting facts about you?
My wife and I have attended over 30 weddings over the past 3 years, including our own this past March.
We want to hear from you!
Interested in being the next employee featured?
Our employee recognition programs are in full swing across our different offices. The Roanoke, VA and Houston, TX offices launched the “Protos Props” program which awards employees for their contributions and hard work.
The Protos Props recipients this month are:
- Kayla Cutry, Senior Service Agent (Protos)
- Daneisha Burney, Fulfillment Agent (Protos)
- Devin Jarvis, Manager of Dispatch Training (Protos Off-Duty Services)
Keep up the great work!
Company Anniversaries
The following people celebrated a company anniversary during the first half of the year. Congratulations on this achievement!
5 Years
- Denise Partipilo – Blue Star
- Jared Baker – Protos
- Leroy Bradley – Protos
- Meagan Gibson – Protos
- Kendall Guffey – Protos
- Mikala Kvasnicka – Protos
- Wesley McNutt – Protos
- Kaitlin Parker – Protos
- Adam Nobles – Remote Services
- Javier Villalobos – Squad
- Roberto Hernandez – Summit
10 Years
- Jamie Conner – Protos
- Beau Holland – Protos
Green Out Wednesdays
Congratulations to our July Green Out Wednesday raffle winners!
Virtual employee winner: Scot Burkett
Norwalk office winners: Cristian Santana and Daniela Pavalovscaia
Scott participated by submitting standout photos, showcasing his green spirit! The Norwalk office held their raffle at the company BBQ, and this month employees received a ticket if they showcased their American pride. Cristian and Daniela were selected as this month’s winners.
About Green Out Wednesdays
Every Wednesday, wear our team color, GREEN, with pride! While green represents the Protos logo, it also symbolizes growth, harmony and balance. By wearing green together, we celebrate our company spirit and our commitment to supporting one another and Protos’ success.
How It Works
Participation is optional. Each Wednesday you wear green and submit a photo you will receive a raffle entry for that week. All entries go toward both a monthly prize drawing and a special year-end prize!
How to Enter: Email your photo to Elena Joseph (ejoseph@protossecurity.com).
Let’s have fun, show off our Protos pride and continue building strong connections as a team! Stay tuned for future winner announcements!
Important Benefits Update
We’re excited to announce that AON is our new benefits broker. Updated Benefits Guides are currently in progress and will be shared once available.
As part of this new partnership, employees will also have access to Health Advocate, a 24/7 resource providing expert support for both administrative and clinical issues — from help with billing questions to assistance with coordinating a second medical opinion.
To learn more, please go to the Tools/References under the Resources tab in ADP. If you have any questions, please contact your HR leader.
Meeting and Event Updates
Site Visits to our Top 35 Customers
Mark Hjelle, Chief Executive Officer and Peter Platten, Chief Revenue Officer are hitting the road to personally visit our top 35 customers, a powerful initiative to demonstrate executive presence and deepen partnerships across the country.
The visits are more than just check-ins. Our leadership team is making it a point to listen intently, capturing both compliments and concerns directly from our clients. Each insight is met with action because follow-up is critical to delivering true value as a company. The leadership team has already made visits to Trader Joe’s, Fresenius Kidney Care, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Stanley Black & Decker and Viatris. They plan to visit UPS, Hibbett Sports, Family Dollar, CarMax, Raising Cane’s, Dave and Busters and more customers throughout the rest of the summer.
These conversations are centered on Protos’ unique approach to the full security experience, positioning us as a dedicated partner. We’re never settling by striving to elevate what it means to protect people and property differently and always improving the customer experience.
Norwalk Office BBQ
The team in our Norwalk office gathered for a fun BBQ celebration, enjoying good food and great company while beating the summertime heat.
A special shoutout to Penelope Osmond, who brought in a selection of her handmade earrings as thoughtful gifts for the team. Penny is the creative talent behind these beautiful pieces, and we’re so grateful for her generosity and craftsmanship. The name of her earrings are “Clayful Poppets.” “Clayful” reflects the handcrafted nature of the creations as each piece is made out of clay. “Poppet” is a British term of endearment, often used to refer to a young child, referencing her two daughters.
Here’s to more summer moments together!
Fourth of July Celebrations
Protos Off-Duty Services office celebrated the Fourth of July with a festive and fun-filled afternoon that brought the team together in true patriotic spirit. The event featured classic holiday treats like hot dogs, ice cream and fresh popcorn. There were games, plenty of laughter and a spirited contest for the most patriotic outfit. Some of the red, white and blue ensembles were truly showstoppers!
It was a fantastic way for the team to take a break, enjoy the holiday and connect with one another in a relaxed and cheerful setting.
The Norwalk office also celebrate the holiday and showcased their American pride with festive decorations and outfits to match the occasion!
Blood Drive
A heartfelt thank you to all the Protos Security employees who took time out of their day to participate in the recent blood drive hosted by Burns & McDonnell in the Roanoke office. Your willingness to roll up your sleeves and donate truly makes a difference.
Giving back to the community is always rewarding, and this event offered a meaningful opportunity to do just that. Every blood donation has the potential to save lives, and we’re proud to be part of a team that consistently steps up when it matters most.
Donuts for Dad Celebration
The Roanoke team took a sweet moment to recognize the hardworking dads in the office with a celebration called Donuts for Dad.
Acknowledging the dedication of dads who show up early, stay late and give their all both at work and at home, the event served as a small but meaningful token of appreciation. Team members gathered to enjoy fresh donuts, hot coffee and warm conversations, making it a memorable and energizing way to start the day.
It was a simple gesture with a big message: thank you, dads, for all that you do.
Roanoke Office Summer Luau Party
Employees in the Roanoke office enjoyed a Summer Luau Party, and it was a blast from start to finish! The breakroom was transformed into a Hawaiian paradise, featuring vibrant island décor that set the scene for a fun and festive celebration and pizza and wings.
The island vibes continued with lively Hawaiian-themed word games, which sparked plenty of laughs and kept the energy high throughout the event. It was a refreshing midweek break that brought teammates together to share in the summer spirit.
Honoring Bill Cummings: A Toast to a Remarkable Teammate
Recently, members of the Protos team gathered outside the Roanoke office for a special moment, one last cheers to Bill Cummings. They shared memories, laughter and quiet reflection. It was clear just how much he meant to all of us. Bill’s presence left a lasting impact on our team. His kindness, humor and dedication will never be forgotten. This gathering was a way for us to honor his memory, celebrate his life and say goodbye in our own way. Though he is no longer with us, Bill will always be a part of the Protos family. Cheers to you, Bill. You’ll be deeply missed.
Accolades and Appreciation
Protos Remote Services Recognizes Kim Dupont
Kim Dupont is a Monitoring Lead at Protos Remote Services and has been with Protos for almost five years. During this time, she has played an integral part in our Remote Monitoring operation by assisting with new-hire training, demonstrating leadership by taking open shifts and exemplifying our core values. Recently, our Monitoring Team has been down a Monitoring Supervisor, and Kim quickly agreed to act in this capacity during her shifts, which has been a huge help to our operation. Thanks, Kim, for going above and beyond to ensure our clients are receiving the quality remote monitoring services that we provide!
VENDOR MANAGEMENT
Every month, a vendor is awarded the Protos Security Vendor Partnership Award. Nominees are selected based on a critical look at vendor KPIs and their overall dedication to a mutually beneficial relationship with Protos. The winning vendor will receive a gift card to TopLine Uniforms.
This month’s winner is:
E’CLAT Security Group nominated by Jon Rozas
IT AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATES
A Message from Mark Hjelle, CEO – Q2 Cybersecurity Training
We’ve been running our security awareness program for some time now, and your efforts are making a difference! Here’s a look at some key metrics we’re watching:
Over the last 12 months:
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- The percentage of staff that failed one phishing test is 20%
- The percentage of staff that failed two phishing tests is 13%
- The percentage of staff that failed more than two phishing tests is 26%
- The percentage of staff that failed zero phishing tests is 41%
We’ve made some great progress and truly appreciate the time you’ve invested in completing our quarterly security awareness trainings.
As we look to refresh our security awareness program, here are some key changes to be on the lookout for:
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- Targeted Training for Phish Test Failures – We’re introducing corrective training for anyone who falls for a simulated phishing email.
- Refreshed Quarterly Trainings Focused on Key Security Concepts – We’re partnering with RSM to bring fresh, relevant content to our quarterly training program.
The next refresher course started the week of July 7. Users have weeks to complete the following training:
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- Phishing Foundations
- Phish Alert Button in Outlook: Identify Spam and Report Phishing
Cyber threats don’t stop, and neither do we. Let’s keep improving!