Security Director

Roles and responsibilities

1. Develop and Implement Security Strategy

• Design and execute a comprehensive security strategy aligned with the organization’s goals.
• Establish security policies, protocols, and procedures that address potential risks and vulnerabilities.
• Regularly review and update security policies to adapt to emerging threats and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with executive management to integrate security into overall business strategy.

2. Risk Assessment and Management

• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify security threats to the organization’s assets, employees, and data.
• Develop and implement risk mitigation plans, including preventive and reactive measures.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of potential security risks and trends within the industry.
• Implement and oversee access control measures to limit unauthorized access to facilities and systems.

3. Oversee Physical Security Operations

• Ensure the physical security of all organizational facilities, including buildings, data centers, and remote locations.
• Manage security personnel and systems, such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and access control systems.
• Develop and implement security protocols for high-profile or high-risk events.
• Conduct audits and security inspections to ensure compliance with established protocols.

4. Information Security and Cybersecurity Management

• Coordinate with IT and cybersecurity teams to ensure data protection and cybersecurity policies are enforced.
• Monitor for cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and breaches, and oversee response to incidents.
• Develop and enforce policies for data access, usage, and storage to ensure information security.
• Stay updated on cybersecurity trends, technology advancements, and best practices.

5. Incident Response and Crisis Management

• Develop and implement an incident response plan to handle security breaches, threats, or emergencies.
• Act as the primary point of contact during security incidents, coordinating with law enforcement if necessary.
• Lead investigations into security incidents, ensuring thorough documentation and root cause analysis.
• Oversee business continuity and disaster recovery plans to ensure minimal disruption during crises.

6. Team Leadership and Management

• Recruit, train, and manage the security team, including security officers, analysts, and contractors.
• Provide guidance and professional development opportunities to build a skilled security workforce.
• Set performance goals and conduct regular evaluations to ensure team effectiveness.
• Foster a culture of security awareness and accountability throughout the organization.

7. Budgeting and Resource Allocation

• Develop and manage the security budget, ensuring optimal use of resources for maximum protection.
• Evaluate and invest in security technology, equipment, and services as required.
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses to assess the financial impact of security initiatives.
• Ensure alignment between security investments and the organization’s risk management objectives.

8. Compliance and Regulatory Adherence

• Ensure compliance with local, national, and industry-specific security regulations and standards.
• Oversee security audits and implement changes to address compliance gaps.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of legal regulations, including data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
• Prepare and present compliance reports to executive leadership and regulatory bodies as needed.

9. Security Awareness and Training Programs

• Develop and implement security awareness programs to educate employees on security best practices.
• Conduct regular training sessions on topics such as emergency procedures, data protection, and physical security.
• Promote a security-conscious culture across the organization, encouraging proactive reporting of risks or incidents.
• Coordinate with HR to ensure onboarding and ongoing training includes relevant security information.

Desired candidate profile

1. Educational Background

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, Information Security, or a related field.
• Advanced degrees (e.g., Master’s in Security Management, Cybersecurity, or Business Administration) are advantageous.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Protection Professional [CPP], Certified Information Systems Security Professional [CISSP], Physical Security Professional [PSP]) add credibility.

2. Experience

• 10+ years of experience in security, law enforcement, military, or related fields, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing security strategies for medium to large organizations.
• Familiarity with both physical security measures and cybersecurity practices.
• Experience in high-stakes environments (e.g., government, corporate headquarters, data centers) is often preferred.

3. Risk Management and Analytical Skills

• Strong risk assessment skills to identify, analyze, and mitigate potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Experience with crisis management, emergency response planning, and business continuity strategies.
• Ability to analyze data and trends to make informed, proactive security decisions.

4. Strategic Planning and Policy Development

• Proven ability to develop and implement security strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Experience in creating and enforcing security policies, protocols, and procedures.
• Ability to assess and adapt strategies based on evolving security landscapes and emerging threats.

5. Leadership and Team Management

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage, train, and motivate a team of security professionals.
• Track record of fostering a culture of vigilance, discipline, and continuous improvement in security practices.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with other departments, including IT, HR, and facilities management.

6. Technical Knowledge and Cybersecurity Awareness

• Knowledge of physical security technologies, such as access control systems, surveillance equipment, and alarm systems.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity principles, including data protection, threat detection, and incident response.
• Understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, ISO 27001) relevant to data and information security.