Head Of Security

Elesta; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading security firm in Greater London is seeking a Head of Security to oversee all aspects of security for a high-profile family. This role requires developing and implementing comprehensive security strategies, managing protection teams, and ensuring confidentiality and professionalism. The ideal candidate has a robust background in executive protection and crisis management, along with excellent leadership skills. Regular travel may be required as per the family's needs.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior security role, ideally within a family office or corporate setting.
• Extensive knowledge of residential security and asset protection.
• Strong leadership skills, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a robust security strategy.
• Ensure the safety of family members during travel and events.
• Safeguard family assets and manage crisis response protocols.
• Select and manage third-party security contractors.

Skills

Executive protection

Threat management

Crisis management

Team management

Adaptability

Job description

The Head of Security will be responsible for managing and overseeing all aspects of security for the principals, their residences, family members, and assets. This individual will develop, implement, and manage comprehensive security strategies to ensure the safety and protection of the family, both locally and internationally. The ideal candidate will possess a high degree of discretion, professionalism, and experience in executive protection, threat management, and security operations in a Family office setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Security Strategy Development & Implementation
• Develop and maintain a robust security strategy tailored to the needs of the principals, their family, and residences.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and security audits, recommending appropriate security measures and improvements.
• Implement and manage physical security protocols, including access control, surveillance systems, and emergency response procedures for all properties and individuals under the family office’s care.
• Executive Protection & Personal Safety
• Ensure the safety and security of family members during travel, public events, and at private residences.
• Coordinate and manage close protection teams, ensuring thorough planning and execution of all personal security arrangements.
• Oversee travel security plans, including itinerary risk assessments, secure transportation, and vetting of accommodations.
• Asset Protection & Crisis Management
• Safeguard family assets, including properties, valuable possessions, and confidential information.
• Establish and manage protocols for responding to emergencies, such as security breaches, medical emergencies, or natural disasters.Lead crisis management efforts and liaise with law enforcement, emergency services, and private contractors as needed.
• Vendor and Personnel Management
• Select, hire, and manage third-party security contractors, including local and international security providers.
• Manage a team of security personnel, including residential security officers, chauffeurs, and any other protection staff.
• Ensure all security personnel are properly trained and compliant with security protocols.
• Technological Integration
• Implement and oversee security technology solutions, including alarms, surveillance systems, and secure communications networks.
• Stay updated on emerging security technologies and assess their relevance to the family’s protection needs.
• Confidentiality & Discretion
• Ensure the highest levels of confidentiality and discretion in all matters relating to the family’s security.
• Handle sensitive information responsibly and ensure secure storage and management of private data.
• Liaison and Communication
• Act as the primary point of contact for all security-related matters with the family, principals, staff, and third-party security providers.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the family office leadership regarding security measures, risks, and incident management.

Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior security role, ideally within a family office, corporate security, law enforcement, or military setting.
• Extensive knowledge of executive protection, residential security, and asset protection.
• Strong understanding of current security technologies and crisis management procedures.
• Experience in managing teams and working with external security vendors and consultants.
• Ability to work discreetly and maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Strong leadership and decision-making skills, particularly in high-pressure situations.
• Willingness to travel extensively, both domestically and internationally, as required by the family’s needs.
• Ability to adapt to changing security requirements and remain proactive in assessing potential threats.
• Hands-on and key-gatekeeper for all the security related matters

Nice to have

• Experience working in high-net-worth (HNW) environments.
• Knowledge of international security protocols and legal regulations.
• Certification in personal protection, crisis management, or similar security certifications.