Prior to founding DS-48, Charles had both a military and entrepreneurial background having been involved in a number of successful start-up businesses. Subsequent to active military service as a Scots Guards officer, Charles became a private client stockbroker before becoming the Deputy CEO and co-owner of a global security and risk management group. The US operating company of the group listed on NASDAQ in 2009. As one of eleven senior executives from across the private security industry, he helped establish The British Association of Private Security Companies (BAPSC) in 2006. In 2011 Charles joined Ergo, a leading US intelligence and advisory firm, as Partner responsible for strategy and international development. Charles has over 25 years experience in various aspects of security, intelligence and crisis management in the public and private sector, and in 2015 established DS-48 with Trevor.