SPYCRAFT 101 cover image

SPYCRAFT 101

171. Out of the Shadows and Into the Boardroom: Intelligence in the Private Sector with Dr. Lewis Sage-Passant

Oct 28, 2024
Dr. Lewis Sage-Passant, a former British military intelligence officer and current global head of intelligence for a major European company, dives into the evolving role of intelligence in the corporate world. He discusses how firms are adopting intelligence practices akin to state actors, and the ethical implications of these shifts. The podcast also highlights eBay's controversial intelligence tactics and the urgent need for stronger ethical guidelines. Lewis emphasizes the growing importance of corporate intelligence teams in navigating geopolitical risks and enhancing security.
01:10:37

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Quick takeaways

  • Private corporations now leverage intelligence departments akin to government agencies to navigate geopolitical and security risks effectively.
  • Unlike government roles, private intelligence practitioners must be agile and versatile, managing broader responsibilities with smaller teams in diverse threat landscapes.

Deep dives

The Role of Private Sector Intelligence

Private corporations increasingly rely on intelligence departments to navigate geopolitical, security, and industrial espionage risks. These departments operate similarly to traditional government intelligence agencies, focusing not only on corporate espionage but also on protecting the company's interests against national security threats. For example, organizations leverage intelligence to assess geopolitical risks and their implications on supply chains, as evidenced by evaluations of crises affecting transport routes. This shift highlights an evolving understanding of the strategic importance of intelligence in the business world.

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