Investigator Spotlight: Val R. Jimenez

This blog is a part of our series, Investigator Spotlights, where we will introduce you to some of Pinkerton’s investigators. When Allan Pinkerton started the Pinkerton National Detective Agency in 1850, the profession was not held in high regard. It was Pinkerton and his team’s skill for detective work, keen intellect, and watchful eyes that turned contempt to esteem and gave birth to the modern security industry. To be counted among Pinkerton investigators is an honor belonging to a relative few and a position reserved for the best in the field.

We’d like to introduce you to Val R. Jimenez, Global Director Investigations. Tell us what you do at Pinkerton.

As Global Director of Investigations, I oversee several practice leaders, investigation managers, and coordinators throughout Pinkerton’s extensive global network.

When did you know that you wanted to be an investigator?

I began my career in law enforcement in California. After several years as a deputy sheriff, I was recruited by the California Attorney General’s Office as a DOJ special agent and given the opportunity to attend and graduate from the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy.

My career as a special agent allowed me to dive into investigations such as money laundering, narcotics smuggling and trafficking, human trafficking, internal affairs, white collar crimes, supply chain disruption, homicide investigations, and due diligence, at both the state and federal level. This exposure gave me the desire to continue this career path and prepared me for Pinkerton.

So that leads to the next question: Why Pinkerton?

After I left the DOJ, there were many opportunities in the private sector and beyond. Choosing Pinkerton afforded me the opportunity to be a part of a great company as well as becoming a part of history.

After everything you have seen and experienced, what inspires you?

I am part of a “noble profession,” and I enjoy helping our clients with their security and investigative needs. I also enjoy being part of the team that brings solutions to the problems Pinkerton clients face.

After eight years with Pinkerton, the thing I enjoy most is the challenge each investigation brings. The talent of our detectives, along with experience and work ethic ensures that our service deliverables will meet the high standards and expectations set forth by Pinkerton for its clients.

What is your most memorable case?

In my career as a law enforcement officer and special agent, I have had numerous memorable cases, not to mention what I have been involved with here at Pinkerton.

Recently, we assisted a corporate client with a high-level employee whose family member with some serious health risks went missing. A Pinkerton detective was assigned to the case, and the missing individual was found within days. This was accomplished by a detective and support staff with extensive experience with these types of cases, along with the detective’s desire to bring this matter to a successful outcome. Cases like these are often filled with emotions and fueled by empathy knowing that there is a family that is missing a loved one, and they want the missing one to come home. And we (Pinkerton) are that instrument entrusted to bring the missing back to them.

When I look back at my career at DOJ, I can truly say that I was very fortunate to have worked with great people who contributed to my successful and rewarding career. And equally at Pinkerton, I continue to work for great people, and I also continue to work with great people, which makes the daily challenges bearable. And I continue to look forward to the many challenges that lie ahead with my journey at Pinkerton.

Throughout history, Pinkertons have served as advisors and consultants for national and global organizations, defining new standards for investigations and consistently driving change within our industry. As a trusted partner, you can rely on our family of thousands of employees and connected partners across 100+ countries to support your investigative, risk management, and security needs. If you’d like to know more about Pinkerton’s Investigative Services, connect with our team.