Security Manager

Skillnet Pty Ltd; White River; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare services provider in White River is seeking a Security Manager to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors in a psychiatric facility. Responsibilities include overseeing security personnel, risk assessments, and compliance with South African regulations. Ideal candidates should have a PSIRA Grade A registration, relevant qualifications in Security Management, and experience in security leadership, particularly in healthcare environments. This role offers competitive remuneration and the opportunity to lead in a meaningful sector.

Qualifications

• Matric (Grade 12) mandatory.
• PSIRA Grade A registration required.
• 5–8 years of proven experience in a security leadership role.
• Strong understanding of risk and crisis management.
• Experience in a healthcare or psychiatric environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement security policies and procedures.
• Manage and lead the security team.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and security audits.
• Oversee access control systems and CCTV surveillance.
• Liaise with SAPS and emergency services.

Skills

Leadership

Crisis management

Communication

Computer literacy

Knowledge of South African security laws

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Security Management

Tools

MS Office

Incident reporting systems

Job description

Vacancy : Security Manager - White River

Description Summary

To ensure the safety and security of patients, staff, visitors, and property within a psychiatric healthcare facility, while maintaining a respectful and therapeutic environment. The Security Manager will oversee the implementation of risk mitigation strategies, manage security personnel, and ensure compliance with PSIRA and healthcare regulations in South Africa.

Requirements

• Matric (Grade 12); relevant tertiary qualification in Security Management, Criminology, or related field preferred.
• PSIRA Grade A registration (mandatory).
• Minimum 5–8 years of proven experience in a security leadership role.
• Knowledge of South African security laws and crime trends.
• Strong leadership and crisis management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Computer literacy: MS Office, incident reporting systems, and security tech platforms.
• Knowledge of South African mental health regulations, hospital security protocols, and patient rights.
• Strong understanding of risk and crisis management.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations and make sound decisions quickly.
• Valid driver’s license and own reliable transport.
• Minimum 5 years of supervisory security experience, preferably in a healthcare or psychiatric environment.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays if required.
• High integrity, discretion, and a proactive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement security policies, protocols, and procedures in line with PSIRA and relevant South African regulations.
• Manage and lead the security team, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and security audits for all facilities and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Oversee access control systems, CCTV surveillance, perimeter security, and alarm systems.
• Liaise with SAPS (South African Police Service), emergency services, and private security providers.
• Investigate security breaches, incidents, and thefts, and compile detailed incident reports.
• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS) and fire safety standards.
• Prepare and manage security budgets, including procurement of security equipment and contract services.
• Provide security briefings and training to staff and executives.
• Respond to emergencies and coordinate evacuation procedures when necessary.
• Develop and implement comprehensive security protocols tailored to a mental healthcare environment, prioritizing safety without compromising patient dignity.
• Monitor access control to all entrances, wards, and restricted areas to prevent unauthorized access and patient absconding.
• Conduct regular patrols and security audits across the facility, including wards, perimeters, and high-risk zones.
• Respond swiftly and professionally to incidents involving aggressive or distressed patients, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum safety.
• Collaborate closely with clinical staff during patient interventions and critical incidents.
• Ensure all security systems (CCTV, panic buttons, alarm systems) are functional and maintained.
• Ensure compliance with the Mental Health Care Act, 2002 and Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Provide ongoing training to staff on personal safety, de-escalation techniques, and emergency procedures.

Strategic and Operational Duties

• Design and maintain facility-specific security procedures with focus on patient-centered care.
• Perform risk assessments and lead emergency preparedness initiatives (fire, patient elopement, violence, etc.).
• Oversee electronic and physical security systems (CCTV, biometric access, duress alarms).

Team Management

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise all on-site security personnel.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and maintain discipline within the security team.

Compliance and Liaison

• Ensure adherence to PSIRA, Department of Health guidelines, and OHS standards.
• Liaise with SAPS, EMS, community forums, and psychiatric nursing staff.
• Report security metrics and incidents to senior management or board, depending on facility type.

Incident Response

• Lead on-site investigations into breaches, assaults, patient escapes, or theft.
• Support clinical teams during Code Grey (behavioral emergencies) or Code Black (security threat).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Incident Reduction: % decrease in reported patient absconsions, assaults, or thefts over time.
• Response Time: Average time to respond to incidents within the facility.
• Compliance Audit Scores: Score from PSIRA, OHS, and Mental Health Act-related audits.
• Staff Training Completion: % of clinical and non-clinical staff trained in safety & de-escalation.
• Security System Uptime: % uptime of CCTV, alarms, and access control systems.
• Team Performance: Staff retention, absenteeism, and incident handling feedback.