Head of security
The Head of Security plans, coordinates, and oversees safety measures on-site. He organizes the work of security staff and ensures their training.
On this profession page, you will learn:
Who is head of security
The head of security performs essential tasks by ensuring the safety of objects and people. He organizes the work of the security team, distributing duties and overseeing training. Daily, the head monitors the situation on the premises, conducts inventory checks, and evaluates security systems. He develops response plans for emergencies and conducts drills for the staff. The head of security collaborates with law enforcement, considering their recommendations and requests. Additionally, he maintains documentation, drafts incident reports, and implements measures for enhancing safety. Thanks to him, everyone can feel comfortable and protected in their environment.
AI impact on head of security
Low riskAI replacement risk
25%
Software will start handling camera monitoring, access logs, and routine report writing, so you'll spend less time watching feeds and filling forms. What stays are the calls with staff, calming people during a breach, and deciding when to lock down a building or call the police. Your day becomes less about paperwork and more about standing in front of a room, running drills, and making judgment calls when alarms go off.
Tasks at risk of automation
- monitoring camera feeds and access logs
- routine incident reporting
- scheduling and time tracking
Tasks that will remain human
- leading and training security staff
- emergency decision making
- conflict resolution on site
- coordinating with police
- running drills and tabletop exercises
Key skills of head of security
Work schedule and conditions
The Chief of Security usually works 8-10 hours a day. The schedule can be standard or shift-based, depending on the requirements of the site. Days off may vary, but usually include Saturday and Sunday. Work takes place mostly in the office, although there may be trips to various locations. Expect special working conditions, such as frequent stressful situations and the need for quick decision-making.
What a head of security does
- Organizing security of facilities and premises.
- Monitoring compliance with security measures.
- Coordinating the work of security personnel and staff.
- Developing emergency response plans.
- Conducting security training and drills.
- Coordinating with law enforcement agencies.
- Analyzing incidents and preparing reports.
Benefits of the head of security profession
Leadership
Opportunity to lead a security team.
Responsibility
Overseeing the security of a facility.
Variety
Diverse tasks and situations daily.
Disadvantages of the head of security profession
Stress
High levels of responsibility and stress.
Unpredictability
Inability to predict threats.
Workload
Heavy workload with many responsibilities.
How to become a head of security
People usually become Head of Security after working as a security officer — no degree is required. What matters is knowledge of security operations, the law, and managing a team and a shift. Frontline security work needs an SIA licence (Security Industry Authority), so guards and door supervisors must be licensed and vetted; the manager oversees that licensed team.
1. On-site experience and promotion
The quickest route is to start as an SIA-licensed security officer and progress to shift supervisor and then Head of Security. Employers train you on site, and advancement rests on experience, reliability and knowing the site's procedures.
2. Professional courses and certification
Courses in security operations, fire safety and personal safety give you a grounding in a few weeks or months. Knowledge of employment law and people management is also useful, and recognised qualifications such as ASIS CPP help with senior corporate roles.
3. Degree in security or management
A degree in security, law or management gives deeper knowledge, but it is the longest route and not required. It is mostly chosen by those who plan to lead the security function of a large organisation.
The fastest route is experience as an SIA-licensed officer plus short courses in security and safety management. Progression to Head of Security comes with practice and the employer's trust; a degree is only really needed in large corporate security functions.