Specialist, Close Protection & Event Security - SS

Close Protection And Event Security Specialist

If you're passionate about being part of a dynamic organization that enables a Fortune 100 company with nearly $70 billion in annual sales to drive innovation and adopt new technologies that deliver business results, then Nationwide's Technology team could be the place for you! At Nationwide®, "on your side" goes beyond just words. Our customers are at the center of everything we do and we're looking for associates who are passionate about delivering extraordinary care.

Are you an experienced professional with a passion for safeguarding others? We're looking for dedicated individuals to join our team in Columbus, OH.

This role requires a strong background in law enforcement or corporate security, proven risk assessment and protection planning skills, and the ability to remain calm and decisive in high-pressure situations.

Flexibility for frequent travel and non-standard hours is essential, along with strong judgment, discretion, and collaboration with internal and external security partners.

If you're committed to excellence and ready to make a significant impact, we invite you to be part of our team.

Location Requirement: Candidates must be based within a commutable distance to Columbus, Ohio.

Work Authorization: This role does not qualify for employer-sponsored work authorization. Nationwide does not participate in the STEM OPT Extension program.

Providing a safe, secure environment for our workforce and visitors is crucial at Nationwide. Our Protective Services team monitors security needs and assists associates with security and safety-related issues. If you are safety focused, a very effective communicator, detail oriented and ready to serve and protect our executives, associates and the public, we want to know more about you! As a Close Protection and Event Security Specialist, you'll provide security planning and protection for associates and executives during domestic and international events, ensure safe environments through proactive risk assessment, coordinate with internal and external partners, and execute comprehensive security plans. You'll operate with flexibility and independence while using sound judgement, high attentiveness and provide extraordinary care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conducts risk assessments and develops security plans for events, travel, and off-site meetings.
• Coordinates secure transportation and logistics, including route planning and emergency protocols.
• Monitors intelligence and incorporates findings into protection strategies.
• Partners with law enforcement and external agencies to ensure seamless protection.
• Conducts physical and threat assessments; recommends security enhancements.
• Develops and implements emergency response protocols and contingency plans.
• Provides emergency medical support and de-escalates potential threats.
• Occasionally supports and provides executive protection for the CEO and Board of Directors.
• Provides surveillance, counter-surveillance and covert protection for CEO, Board of Directors, and events.
• Collaborates with Close Protection and Event Planning teams to ensure safe execution of events.
• Provides close protection for visiting dignitaries / executives from outside Nationwide.

May perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Reporting Relationships: Reports to Manager, Close Protection and Event Security. This is an individual contributor role.

Typical Skills and Experiences:

Education: Undergraduate studies in business administration, psychology, criminal justice, security management, or other related areas preferred.

License/Certification/Designation: Must meet all required training standards and maintain annual firearm licensure required to carry a firearm for a given state: May be required to obtain a concealed carry permit depending upon assignment. Will be required to obtain and must qualify for an AOA (Airport Operations Area). Must undergo a pre-employment psychological assessment to determine fitness for duty. Must pass a pre-employment and biannual physical evaluation.

Experience: Typically, five or more years demonstrated experience in law enforcement, corporate security, or executive protection security. Experience with active shooter response, counterterrorism, crisis management, and close protection preferred.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills: Strong understanding of private security laws, corporate security protocols, and executive protection practices. Skilled in risk assessment, threat management, and developing security plans. Capable of de-escalating threats and leading emergency response calmly and effectively. Proficient in law enforcement techniques, including communication, first aid, and use of firearms. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; able to interact with executives and external partners. Technically proficient with personal computing and security systems. Proficient in advanced protective driving skills, including evasive maneuvers, motorcade operations and route planning. Maintain a valid driver's license and pass driving proficiency examination. Physically fit to perform demanding tasks (e.g., lifting, standing for extended periods).

Other criteria, including leadership skills, competencies and experiences may take precedence.

Staffing exceptions to the above must be approved by the hiring manager's leader and Human Resource Business Partner.

Values: Regularly and consistently demonstrates the Nationwide Values.

Job Conditions:

Overtime Eligibility: Exempt (Not eligible)

Working Conditions: Must be able to work flexible office hours to include weekends, holidays, special event coverage or emergency situations as needed. Must be able to successfully pass physical fitness requirements, a psychological exam, and a pre-employment and annual criminal background checks. Requires 20 – 40% travel or more.

ADA: The above statements cover what are generally believed to be principal and essential functions of this job. Specific circumstances may allow or require some people assigned to the job to perform a somewhat different combination of duties.

Credit/Background Check: Due to fiduciary responsibilities and high security accountability within this role, a credit check may be conducted, subject to state law. Candidates must successfully pass a criminal background check.

Safety Sensitive: This job has been identified as a Safety Sensitive position and, according to our substance free workplace program, may be subject to random alcohol and other drug testing.

We have an array of benefits to fit your needs, including: medical/dental/vision, life insurance, short and long term disability coverage, paid time off with newly hired associates receiving a minimum of 18 days paid time off each full calendar year pro-rated quarterly based on hire date, nine paid holidays, 8 hours of Lifetime paid time off, 8 hours of Unity Day paid time off, 401(k) with company match, company-paid pension plan, business casual attire, and more.

Nationwide is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels challenged, appreciated, respected and engaged. Nationwide prohibits discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to any characteristic (or classification) protected by applicable law.