Head of Physical Security and Protective Services

Location: Metro New York, NY
Relocation: Yes, from within the Continental United States

Overview

Security Management Resources® is excited to announce a new search for a Head of Physical Security and Protective Services. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced security professional to step into a key leadership role with a major player in the financial services world. It’s a brand-new position where you’ll help shape fresh security strategies and refine the programs already in place. The job calls for a hands-on leader who works well with people at every level of the organization and communicates with ease. While the preference is for someone based in the New York metro area, relocation from another major city could be an option for the right person. An exceptional compensation package is on offer for this role.

Responsibilities

• Drive and oversee an enterprise-wide physical protection program that supports organizational objectives and reflects leading industry standards.
• Lead and manage a comprehensive executive security program for senior leaders, directing planning and operations for offices, travel, and high-profile engagements while coordinating internal and external resources for advance work, close protection, and occasional hands-on coverage.
• Continuously assess and interpret emerging security risks from diverse information sources, and lead a cross-functional, centrally coordinated threat response that engages internal teams and external providers to ensure prompt, high-quality risk mitigation and effective internal communications.
• Serve as the lead physical security expert within the crisis and emergency response structure, partnering with risk, continuity, and corporate operations teams to manage incidents such as security intrusions, active assailant events, and other emergencies with a physical security dimension.
• Direct and coordinate investigations into on-site security violations, incidents, and external threats, working closely with relevant internal groups to resolve issues.
• Collaborate with corporate functions to continuously strengthen office, event, and travel security by assessing site risks, shaping physical security designs and technologies, coordinating protective measures with internal teams and vendors, and supporting staff training on workplace safety and active assailant preparedness.
• Cultivate strong relationships with law enforcement agencies and industry peers.

Education, Experience, Skills, and Competencies

• An academic degree in a relevant field with a commitment to continued professional development for yourself and others.
• Extensive experience in corporate physical security with a preference for time spent in a high-trust environment, such as the financial services sector, together with public-sector government agency experience.
• Deep knowledge of physical security technology and equipment.
• Experienced in driving collaboration across functions to address organizational security challenges and strengthen enterprise risk management strategies.
• A discerning and intellectually curious leader with the acumen to read the room, cultivate strategic alignment and buy-in over time, and guide transformative change with agility while maintaining focus on high-impact priorities.
• Approaches challenges with humility and teamwork and is committed to getting the job done while fostering and strengthening relationships built on trust and respect.
• The ability to travel globally, sometimes on short notice.

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