Chief Security Officer

Role Overview

Sarova Panafric Hotel is looking for a Chief Security Officer to direct day-to-day security across the property and prepare the hotel to respond effectively to emerging risks and emergencies. You will protect people, property and confidential information while helping ensure that security measures support a courteous, reassuring guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct hotel security operations and assess risks regularly, putting appropriate controls in place to address threats, vulnerabilities and potential losses.
• Keep CCTV, access controls, alarms and key-management procedures effective, secure and ready for use.
• Take charge of incident response and investigations, preserving evidence, documenting findings and escalating matters to management or the appropriate authorities.
• Manage sensitive situations involving guests with discretion, empathy and sound judgement.
• Lead and develop the security team, overseeing staffing, deployment, conduct, performance and adherence to hotel expectations.
• Build productive working relationships with hotel teams, guests, security partners, police, emergency services and other relevant agencies.
• Plan emergency readiness, including fire and evacuation drills, medical response and crisis procedures; provide staff training in security awareness, guest interaction and loss prevention.
• Monitor changes in the risk environment and recommend practical improvements to the hotel’s security arrangements.

Requirements & Qualifications

• At least five years of security experience, including two to three years in a supervisory or management position.
• Experience in a four- or five-star hotel is preferred.
• A degree or diploma in Security Management, Criminology, Risk Management, Police or Defence Studies, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Professional training or certification in security and risk management.
• Strong knowledge of security operations, risk assessment and emergency response, with practical experience using CCTV, access-control and alarm systems.
• Proven investigative ability and a sound understanding of criminal and civil law.
• Experience working with police, emergency services and external security agencies, supported by effective local intelligence networks.
• Knowledge of data protection and confidentiality requirements, alongside the judgement to enforce standards with diplomacy and discretion.