The Person Behind the Shield

Before the Army

Horse-mad, army-raised,
and always outdoors.

I grew up surrounded by two things: horses and the Army. My father served as a helicopter pilot in the British Army, and my childhood was spent moving between camps across the UK, Ireland, and Germany — a life defined by structure, discipline, and community.

From an early age, horses were a constant. Riding, competing, and spending most of my time outdoors shaped both my focus and work ethic.

When it came to choosing a path, the decision was clear: combine both. The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery offered exactly that.

Life in the Army

Thirteen years that shaped
everything about who I am.

I completed basic training in 2013 and joined the Troop as a Mounted Gunner, progressing through multiple roles before reaching Sergeant.

At that point, I was leading a section responsible for 26 personnel, over 20 horses, all associated equipment, and ceremonial artillery assets. That level of responsibility required consistent leadership, organisation, and attention to detail.

Our work was delivered at the highest level — including State visits, Trooping the Colour, the State Funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II, and the Coronation of HM King Charles III — environments where precision, discipline, and composure under scrutiny are non-negotiable.

Operating in these environments demands more than competence. It requires the ability to manage complex logistics in real time, maintain standards under pressure, and take full responsibility for outcomes. These are not theoretical skills — they are built through experience.

Alongside my role, I also represented the Army in British Eventing and competed in team show jumping at the Royal Windsor Horse Show and other military competitions.

Life After the Army

A new challenge.
The same standards.

After 12 years of service, I made the decision to transition into a role that matched the way I operate — structured, disciplined, and high-responsibility. Close Protection was a natural progression.

I completed my Level 3 Close Protection qualification, obtained my SIA licence, and achieved FREC3 certification. I also continue to support the Troop through the Reserves.

Entering the industry highlighted a clear gap in representation. Female operatives remain significantly underrepresented — not due to capability, but due to a system that has been slow to evolve. Sovereign Shields was built to address that.

Outside of Work

Gym sessions, time outdoors,
and a different kind of focus.

Physical training is a consistent part of my routine — essential both for the demands of the role and maintaining focus.

Outside of work, I spend as much time outdoors as possible, often with my two dogs.

I also have a long-standing interest in painting, particularly equestrian subjects.

Hannah Brasher
Founder