Navigating Risk: The Unsafeties of My Work and the Cluelessness of Desk Jockeys

Before the pandemic transformed the world, my work entailed frequent, unannounced travels across the United States. From criss-crossing America in January through April to reviewing sensitive financial and tax documents, my role demanded both precision and safety awareness. My task was to investigate crime hotspots and high-risk areas, searching for needles in the proverbial haystack. However, navigating these treacherous terrains often brought about risks that went unnoticed by many.

A Day in the Life of a Risk Mitigation Specialist

My days were long, and my nights extended well past dark, sometimes in questionable neighborhoods or out on Indian reservations—or even in rural communities where meth production and marijuana cultivation were rampant. The work was highly sensitive, and it required a keen eye and detailed investigative skills. I often worked alone and had to maintain a high level of vigilance and safety awareness. My cadence, rhythm, and investigative methods had become second nature, and each person who accompanied me left with a newfound appreciation for the craft.

The Evolution of My Role

Over the years, my investigative work became so refined that the people who understood its intricacies often perceived me as a ghost—a fleeting presence that appeared, conducted assessments, and disappeared. However, the term “dumpster diving” used by some of my colleagues to describe my work was both offensive and insipid. These desk jockeys, who seemed to glide through corporate roles with half-hearted effort, lacked the competence that years of experience in fraud and compliance had instilled in me.

The Consequence of Cluelessness

There's a group among the “desk jockeys” who remember me for my diligence in inspecting data destruction and disposal. However, they seem to trivialize the importance of my visits, referring to them as “dumpster diving.” This dismissiveness is not only insulting but also indicative of their lack of genuine understanding and competence in the field. They fail to recognize the critical role investigations play in mitigating risks and preventing fraud.

Inspections and Data Destruction

Before disposing of sensitive data or documents, I perform thorough inspections to ensure that all critical information is securely removed and destroyed. This task is crucial for preventing identity theft, ensuring legal compliance, and maintaining the confidentiality of my clients. The logistical challenges and potential hazards associated with observing these inspections are often underestimated by those who lack real-world experience.

Office Office Dynamics

Returning to the office, my multi-tasking nature sometimes landed me in slightly safer, but still unsuitable, situations. For instance, my work sometimes brought me to share a desk, a common occurrence in many offices. I have even been known to kick my feet up on the desk when there is no one else around, as long as it is a shared desk and not the chief's. While I appreciate the shared workspace, it's worth noting that some colleagues have complained about the occasional mud stains left by my routine.

My work requires a blend of intellectual and physical skills, rigorous safety measures, and a sharp eye for detail. It is not merely a desk job, and those who dismiss it as such do a disservice to the crucial role it plays in mitigating risk and maintaining compliance in our increasingly complex and ever-changing world.