Describes the concept of competitive intelligence (CI) from the view of an ethical user and provides case studies of its use in four industries: pharmaceutical, financial, telecommunications and energy. Investigates the role of the information professional and sources commonly used. Suggests that all types of organisations can benefit from a CI perspective and that there are career possibilities in this area. Recommends that CILIP and university library/information departments assist in raising the profile of CI as a career ideally suited to the information professional.