Chief Security Officer

THE OPPORTUNITY

A highly regarded, full-service private members club located in the greater Bethesda corridor of Maryland is conducting a confidential search for an accomplished Chief Security Officer. This is a unique executive opportunity for a seasoned security professional to lead and elevate a comprehensive security program serving a distinguished membership community within a world-class hospitality and recreational environment.

The ideal candidate brings executive-level leadership presence, deep operational expertise, and a sophisticated understanding of private club and high-end hospitality security environments. This role reports directly to the Club's senior leadership and will serve as the principal advisor on all matters related to safety, security, and risk management.

ROLE SUMMARY

The Chief Security Officer (CSO) will have full accountability for designing, managing, and continuously improving the club's integrated security program. Responsibilities span physical security, personnel safety, access control, emergency preparedness, executive protection protocols, and vendor/contractor oversight — all delivered with the discretion and service standards befitting a premier private institution.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

▪ Develop and execute a comprehensive security strategy aligned with the club's operational standards and membership expectations

▪ Direct all aspects of physical security including access control systems (ACS), video management systems (VMS), and perimeter protection

▪ Supervise, schedule, and develop a professional security operations team, including any contract or off-duty law enforcement personnel

▪ Serve as the primary liaison with local law enforcement, fire and emergency services, and other public safety agencies

▪ Establish and maintain emergency response plans, crisis management protocols, and business continuity procedures

▪ Conduct regular security assessments, audits, and after-action reviews; present findings and recommendations to senior leadership

▪ Oversee all security-related vendor relationships, contracts, and service agreements

▪ Manage security department budget, staffing plans, and capital expenditure planning for security infrastructure

▪ Implement and enforce loss prevention policies and investigative procedures with full confidentiality

▪ Design and deliver security awareness training for club staff at all levels

▪ Provide discreet executive protection coordination for high-profile members and guests as required

▪ Ensure all security practices maintain full compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

▪ Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible security management experience; prior CSO, Director, or equivalent executive-level role strongly preferred

▪ Background in private club, hospitality, luxury residential, or comparable high-service environments highly valued

▪ Demonstrated command of modern security technologies including integrated ACS, CCTV/VMS, LPR systems, and SOC operations

▪ Proven experience managing or coordinating off-duty sworn law enforcement personnel

▪ Strong knowledge of executive protection (EP) principles and application in a discreet, member-first environment

▪ Prior military, federal law enforcement, or senior law enforcement leadership background a significant advantage

▪ Professional certifications such as CPP (Certified Protection Professional), PSP, or equivalent preferred

▪ Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to present to boards and senior executives

▪ Demonstrated ability to maintain absolute discretion in all matters related to members, guests, and club operations

▪ Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in security management, criminal justice, or related field preferred

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

Beyond technical credentials, the successful candidate will demonstrate the professional presence and interpersonal sophistication required to operate seamlessly within a private club culture. This individual leads with authority and confidence while remaining approachable and service-oriented. They understand that security excellence in this environment is achieved through anticipation, preparation, and discretion — never through overt or intrusive measures that detract from the member experience.

The CSO will be a trusted member of the senior leadership team, contributing strategically to club operations while remaining the definitive expert on all risk and safety matters.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

▪ Base salary range of $105,000 – $120,000 commensurate with experience

▪ Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage

▪ Professional development and certification support

▪ Paid time off