Job brief
We are looking for a dedicated Security Program Manager to join our corporate security team and lead our site-wide safety and protection initiatives. In this role, you will architect security infrastructure, manage critical vendor relationships, and oversee the implementation of robust incident response plans to protect our facilities and people. You will play a vital role in fostering a safe, compliant environment while modernizing our security tools and reporting processes. If you are a proactive leader with a passion for public safety and risk management, we want to hear from you.
Key highlights
- Design and maintain integrated physical security roadmaps including perimeter defense, intrusion detection, and surveillance systems.
- Conduct comprehensive risk and vulnerability assessments to identify security gaps and recommend actionable mitigation strategies.
- Manage the lifecycle of security incidents by leading post-event investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective action plans.
- Develop and deliver specialized training programs for staff regarding workplace violence prevention and emergency response protocols.
What is a Security Program Manager?
A Security Program Manager is a strategic professional responsible for overseeing an organization’s comprehensive security posture, including the protection of personnel, physical assets, and proprietary information. These experts design and execute multi-layered security programs by integrating advanced surveillance technologies, access control systems, and data-driven risk assessment methodologies. By aligning security initiatives with broader business objectives, a Security Program Manager ensures operational continuity and regulatory compliance in high-stakes environments.
What does a Security Program Manager do?
A Security Program Manager directs daily security operations, including the oversight of VMS (Video Management Systems), badge-access infrastructure, and guard force coordination. They perform regular threat landscape analyses, execute emergency response drills, and draft detailed incident reports using platforms like Genetec or LenelS2. Beyond technical monitoring, they facilitate collaboration between internal departments, external law enforcement agencies, and public safety entities to ensure a proactive and responsive security environment.
Key responsibilities
- Design and maintain integrated physical security roadmaps including perimeter defense, intrusion detection, and surveillance systems for multi-site operations.
- Conduct comprehensive risk and vulnerability assessments to identify security gaps and recommend actionable mitigation strategies to executive leadership.
- Manage the lifecycle of security incidents by leading post-event investigations, root-cause analysis, and developing corrective action plans.
- Coordinate with IT and Facilities departments to ensure the seamless maintenance and uptime of enterprise access control and CCTV platforms.
- Develop and deliver specialized training programs for staff regarding workplace violence prevention, emergency evacuation procedures, and active shooter readiness.
- Maintain regulatory compliance by ensuring all security operations adhere to industry standards such as ISO 27001 or local public safety mandates.
- Analyze security metrics and KPI reports to optimize guard force deployment and reduce operational expenditures related to security services.
- Serve as the primary liaison between corporate management and local law enforcement agencies during high-profile investigations or emergency events.
Requirements and skills
- 5+ years of experience in corporate security, law enforcement, or protective services with a focus on program management.
- Proven proficiency in managing physical security technologies including IP-based video surveillance, biometrics, and electronic key management systems.
- Advanced certification in the industry, such as CPP (Certified Protection Professional) or PSP (Physical Security Professional) from ASIS International.
- Demonstrated expertise in conducting complex investigations involving theft, fraud, or internal policy violations while maintaining strict confidentiality.
- Deep understanding of OSHA workplace safety regulations and NFPA fire and life safety codes for large-scale facility management.
- Exceptional ability to synthesize technical data from security logs into actionable executive briefs and formal incident investigation reports.
- Prior experience managing third-party security service contracts, including contract negotiation, performance auditing, and budgetary oversight.
- Ability to maintain composure and execute critical decision-making under high-pressure scenarios during emergency or crisis operations.
FAQs
What does a Security Program Manager do on a daily basis?
A Security Program Manager balances high-level strategy with real-time operational oversight. Daily tasks involve reviewing surveillance logs, auditing badge access data, managing guard force schedules, and responding to immediate security breaches. They also spend significant time collaborating with stakeholders to refine risk policies and ensuring that all security hardware is functioning correctly.
What certifications are required to become a Security Program Manager?
While experience is paramount, industry-recognized credentials significantly boost candidacy. The most valuable certifications include the CPP (Certified Protection Professional) and PSP (Physical Security Professional) from ASIS International. Additionally, certifications related to project management, such as PMP, or specific technical training in physical security software systems, are highly regarded by top-tier employers.
Who does a Security Program Manager work with inside an organization?
A Security Program Manager acts as a central hub, working with HR on personnel safety, IT on cybersecurity/physical security integration, and Facilities management on building maintenance. They also serve as the public face of the company when coordinating with external emergency responders, private security vendors, and local law enforcement during audits or incident management.
Why is the Security Program Manager role critical for modern businesses?
As physical and digital threats continue to converge, a Security Program Manager is essential for protecting the company’s most valuable assets: its people and its intellectual property. By proactively identifying risks rather than just reacting to them, they minimize financial loss, ensure compliance with evolving safety laws, and foster a culture of stability and trust for all employees and visitors.