Steven J. Gentile, born on November 12, 1964, in New York, is a distinguished security consultant and former police officer renowned for his unwavering dedication to public safety and exceptional leadership skills. As the only Police Medal of Honor recipient in Rockland County history, Steven’s law enforcement career from 1989 to 2004 was marked by bravery and integrity. His most notable act of heroism occurred on June 18, 1993, when he single-handedly faced heavily armed assailants trained by an Islamic terrorist group, saving a school full of children during a gunfight, and earning him the highest decoration in the county’s history.
After retiring from active duty, Steven transitioned to a successful career in security consulting, where he applies his extensive experience to high-stakes assignments globally. He has provided security for prominent figures, including actor John Candy, members of the Saudi Arabian royal family, entrepreneur Ben Nash, and, in conjunction with the U.S. State Department, the Prime Minister of Israel, showcasing his ability to manage complex security operations.
Steven’s expertise extends to advanced security planning, undercover surveillance, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies, ensuring comprehensive safety strategies for clients. His commitment to excellence and innovation has made him a sought-after consultant in the industry.
Steven’s dedication to service goes beyond his professional achievements, as he remains actively involved in mentoring the next generation of security professionals, emphasizing the importance of readiness and ethical conduct. His career is a testament to the impact of courage, preparation, and leadership in making the world a safer place.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
As a security consultant, my typical day is anything but routine, as it involves constant vigilance and preparedness. Each day begins with an assessment of ongoing security operations and a review of any new threats or assignments. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and potential impact, ensuring that every aspect of security is thoroughly covered. Productivity, for me, is about being proactive and responsive—anticipating problems before they arise and making sure my team is ready for any scenario. Staying organized and maintaining a high level of readiness are key components of my approach.
How do you bring ideas to life?
In the world of security consulting, bringing ideas to life requires a blend of strategic thinking and practical execution. I start by thoroughly analyzing the situation and gathering insights from experienced colleagues and industry experts. Once I have a comprehensive understanding, I develop a detailed action plan that incorporates innovative solutions tailored to the specific security needs of each client. Execution involves careful coordination and collaboration with my team, ensuring that every member understands their role in the plan. Continuous feedback and adaptability are crucial to refining our strategies and achieving successful outcomes.
What’s one trend that excites you?
One trend that excites me is the growing emphasis on proactive security measures in both personal and corporate environments. With the increasing complexity of global threats, there’s a heightened focus on anticipatory strategies that prevent incidents before they occur. This shift aligns perfectly with my philosophy of “Be Ready,” where preparation and foresight are integral to effective security solutions. The integration of technology, such as advanced surveillance systems and data analytics, plays a significant role in this trend, enabling us to enhance our capabilities and provide more comprehensive protection.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
A habit that has consistently helped me maintain productivity is my commitment to continual learning and improvement. The security landscape is constantly evolving, and staying informed about the latest developments and techniques is essential. I dedicate time each day to studying industry trends, reviewing case studies, and engaging with experts in the field. This ongoing education allows me to refine my strategies and ensure that my approach remains cutting-edge and effective. Additionally, I emphasize setting clear priorities and focusing on high-impact tasks, which helps me manage my time efficiently and achieve my objectives.
What advice would you give your younger self?
If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Early in my career, I faced significant obstacles, such as the lack of support from colleagues during critical moments. These challenges taught me resilience and the importance of standing firm in my principles. I would encourage my younger self to remain curious and open to learning, never shying away from difficult situations. Embracing adversity not only builds character but also fosters the skills needed to navigate complex environments successfully.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I firmly believe that true leadership comes from serving others selflessly, a notion that often challenges conventional views of leadership as a position of power. In my experience, the most effective leaders are those who prioritize the well-being and development of their team members. By focusing on support and empowerment, leaders can create an environment where individuals feel valued and motivated to excel. This perspective may not align with traditional hierarchical models, but I have witnessed its positive impact firsthand throughout my career.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
One practice I recommend is maintaining a mindset of readiness and adaptability. In the security field, conditions can change rapidly, and being prepared for unexpected events is crucial. I advocate for regularly assessing potential risks and rehearsing responses to various scenarios. This proactive approach not only enhances our ability to respond effectively but also instills confidence in our capabilities. I encourage everyone, regardless of their field, to adopt a similar mindset, as it fosters resilience and ensures that we are equipped to handle whatever challenges come our way.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I encounter moments of overwhelm or lack of focus, I take a step back and engage in a practice that has served me well over the years: visualization. I mentally rehearse scenarios and potential responses, which helps me clarify my thoughts and regain focus. This technique was instrumental during my time in law enforcement, where split-second decision-making was often required. By envisioning successful outcomes, I can re-center myself and approach challenges with renewed clarity and determination.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Building and maintaining strong professional relationships has been a key strategy in advancing my career. Networking has opened doors to opportunities that I might not have encountered otherwise. Working with high-profile clients, such as providing security for the Saudi Arabian royal family or collaborating with the US State Department, was possible because of the connections I cultivated throughout my career. Trust and reputation are everything in the security industry, and investing time in relationships pays dividends in both client satisfaction and career advancement.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
One significant setback was the lack of support from colleagues during critical moments, which led to legal battles with my municipality. I overcame these challenges by staying true to my principles and pursuing justice through the legal system, winning several state and federal lawsuits. The experience taught me the importance of resilience and the need to stand up for what is right, regardless of opposition. It reinforced my belief in integrity and the necessity of fighting for justice even when faced with considerable adversity.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
An idea I’m willing to share is the development of a mobile app for community safety. This app could provide real-time alerts, safety tips, and a direct line to local law enforcement, enhancing community engagement and safety. By empowering individuals with accessible security resources, we can foster a proactive approach to safety management. This initiative aligns with the trend towards increased personal security awareness and could significantly impact how communities approach safety.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
In my role as a security consultant, project management tools are essential for maintaining organization and efficiency. While I no longer use specific software for law enforcement tasks, I find platforms like Trello invaluable for managing complex projects. These tools allow me to track tasks, set deadlines, and coordinate efforts with my team. By visually organizing our workflow, we can ensure that every detail is accounted for and that we remain on track to achieve our goals.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
While I don’t engage with many popular leadership books or podcasts, I draw inspiration from real-life accounts of individuals who have overcome significant adversity. These stories of resilience and perseverance offer valuable lessons applicable to both personal and professional life. They remind me of the power of determination and the impact that unwavering dedication can have in the face of challenges.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Rather than indulging in Hollywood portrayals of law enforcement, I prefer documentaries that offer a more accurate depiction of security challenges. These films provide valuable insights into real-world operations, highlighting the complexities we face and the strategic thinking required to navigate them successfully. They serve as a reminder of the critical nature of our work and the importance of staying prepared for any eventuality.
Key learnings
- Preparedness is essential: Always be ready to adapt to changing circumstances and anticipate potential challenges.
- Build strong relationships: Networking and maintaining professional connections are crucial for career growth and success.
- Embrace challenges: View obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning, reinforcing resilience and determination.
- Stay informed: Continuously seek knowledge and insights to remain effective and competitive in your field.
- Lead by serving: True leadership is about supporting and empowering those around you to achieve their best.