Leadership Team
Benjamin Smith - President
Benjamin Smith is a highly accomplished security and investigations professional with over a decade of progressive leadership in law enforcement, military policing, corporate security, and risk management.
A U.S. Air Force veteran and former Deputy Sheriff, Benjamin brings unmatched experience in threat analysis, criminal investigations, and crisis response. His career spans roles at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Amazon, and the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, where he led multi-facility security operations, reduced incidents by over 35%, and significantly improved case resolution rates.
Benjamin holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security from the University of Arizona and achieved his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from National American University. He is a Certified Forensic Interviewer and a graduate of the Georgia Police Academy and Airman Leadership School, where he earned the prestigious Leadership Award.
With a proven ability to manage high-stakes environments and lead armed security teams, Benjamin is known for his integrity, strategic mindset, and unwavering commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Victoria Smith - Chief Operating Officer
Victoria Smith was raised between South Florida and Belo Horizonte, Brazil, giving her a diverse cultural perspective that strengthens her leadership in the security industry. She began her career as a professional firefighter, gaining extensive expertise in safety, crisis management, and risk mitigation, which she now brings to the private security sector.
As a co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Stratus Group Security, Victoria oversees the company’s daily operations, ensuring that all departments work cohesively to deliver superior protection services. She is responsible for strategic planning, operational efficiency, client relations, and team development, consistently aligning company objectives with client needs. Her leadership style emphasizes accountability, precision, and proactive problem-solving, enabling Stratus Group Security to maintain the highest standards of reliability and trust.
Victoria’s background in public safety instilled a disciplined approach to leadership, vigilance, and operational excellence—values that continue to guide the company’s mission to safeguard people, property, and assets.
