Director of Security

Location: Chicago, IL

Department: Security On-Site Supervision/Management

We are seeking an executive-level, strategic Security Director to oversee physical security, risk management, and operational leadership for a 37-story, 780,000+ sq. ft. commercial office tower located in the heart of Chicago's financial district. Managing an on-site team of 8 security professionals, this leader serves as the primary liaison between security operations, property management, corporate leadership, and local emergency services to ensure a safe, high-end environment for commercial tenants and visitors

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Client Partnership

• Serve as the primary on-site subject matter expert for security operations, interacting directly with property ownership and corporate leadership.

• Build, improve, and maintain effective, high-trust relationships with both the client and on-site staff.

• Coordinate necessary support services to effectively manage the site, meet or exceed financial and operational goals, and deliver exceptional customer service.

• Develop, prepare, and compile reports, memos, and documentation pertaining to personnel activities, security metrics, and account trends.

Team Management & Operational Oversight

• Directly manage, lead, and support a team of 8 security officers, site leads, and shift supervisors—including hiring, scheduling, payroll tracking, and performance evaluations.

• Conduct annual performance reviews and manage performance tracking, disciplinary actions, and staff development initiatives.

• Partner with HR and operations management on onboarding, training, personnel file integrity, and workforce management systems.

• Track and manage company equipment in the field (technology, vehicles, etc.) to ensure proper usage in accordance with company policies.

High-Rise Safety & Crisis Management

• Ensure high-quality physical security services across all 38 floors, tenant amenity spaces, retail corridors, and connected parking facilities.

• Appropriately handle and lead initial responses to all escalated security issues or emergency situations.

• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local guidelines relative to contracted services.

• Drive a culture of safety, accountability, and customer service that reflects company and client values.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 7 years of managerial and policy-making experience in law enforcement or contract security management. High-rise Class A commercial office tower experience and extensive contacts within the local law enforcement community strongly preferred.

• Education: Degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement Management, or related field (or equivalent experience/education) preferred.

• Licensing & Certifications: Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC). Professional certifications in Security Management (CPP or similar) preferred.

• Financial & Technical Skills: Proficient in Excel with the ability to create and manage budgets and budget variance reports. Experience with workforce management and scheduling platforms preferred.

• Communication & Soft Skills: Excellent English verbal and written communication skills (bilingual is a plus) with the ability to address policy and operational questions concisely to ownership. Strong qualitative, quantitative, and time-management abilities.

• Physical Demands & Clearances: Ability to stand for extended periods, perform indoor/outdoor foot patrols in all weather conditions, and lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs. Must pass pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check. Must maintain a reliable contact phone number.

Compensation & Total Rewards

• Competitive Salary: Base Salary: $78K - 83K, plus discretionary year-end bonus potential.

• Comprehensive Healthcare: High-quality Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and AD&D insurance options (including optional supplemental coverage).

• Generous Paid Time Off: Accrued paid vacation, personal days, and paid holiday coverage to support work-life balance.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan.

• Career Growth & Advancement: Continuous, skills-enhancing training programs and clear pathways for leadership advancement.

EOE/M/F/D/V

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