Job Description

Director of Safety & Security (Pre-opening)


With thousands of hotels in over 100 countries and territories, Hilton offers countless opportunities to delight. From an open door to a welcoming smile and an exceptional experience, we offer the millions of travellers who stay with us every year a welcome they will never forget. In addition to our flagship brand, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the family of brands includes Waldorf Astoria, LXR, Conrad, Canopy, Curio Collection, DoubleTree, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton and many others.


If you appreciate the impact global travel can have on the world, you may be just the person we are looking for to work as a Hilton Team Member. Because it's with Hilton where we never forget the reason we're here: to delight our guests, Team Members, and owners alike.


Are you passionate about creating environments where safety and hospitality go hand in hand? As our Director of Safety & Security, you'll be more than a guardian - you will be a strategic leader shaping a culture of trust and protection at the heart of our hotel. From designing and implementing security protocols to conducting proactive risk assessments, your role ensures that every corner of our property is secure, compliant, and prepared for any situation.


Beyond operations, you will lead and inspire a dedicated safety team, equipping them with the skills and confidence to respond effectively. You will manage emergency response plans, investigate incidents with professionalism, and build strong relationships with local authorities and emergency services. With your expertise, we will create a space where guests feel safe, team members feel supported, and excellence is not just expected - it's assured.

What will I be doing?

As the Director of Safety & Security, you will be responsible for performing the following tasks to the highest standards:


Leadership & Team Development


Leads the safety and security team, providing direction, training, and mentorship to ensure the team performs efficiently and is prepared for emergencies.


Supervises the scheduling and deployment of security personnel, ensuring the property always has appropriate coverage.


Effectively communicates the critical importance of safety procedures by clearly articulating procedural codes, ensuring team members have a thorough understanding, and overseeing the consistent implementation and monitoring of safety-related processes and procedures.


Fosters a collaborative team environment by promoting mutual trust, respect, and effective cooperation among team members.


Recognizes the developmental needs of team members and supports their growth through coaching, mentoring, and skill-building initiative.


Provides clear guidance and strategic direction to team members by establishing performance standards, monitoring outcomes, and fostering continuous improvement.



Operational Security & Risk Management


Oversees the hotel's daily safety and security operations, ensuring all policies and procedures are followed to protect guests, team members, and property.


Conducts regular risk assessments to identify potential security threats and physical hazards, implements preventive measures to mitigate risks, and provides strategic recommendations to enhance workplace safety and prevent unsafe practices.


Implements comprehensive action plans to effectively monitor and control risks, ensuring a safe and secure environment across all operations.


Comply with all Hilton corporate and local government safety and security guidelines and procedures to ensure a safe and secure environment.


Emergency Planning & Response


Develops and implements emergency response plans, including fire, natural disaster, and evacuation protocols, ensuring the hotel is fully prepared to respond to emergencies.


Leads the response to any safety or security incidents, coordinating with internal teams and external emergency services to ensure swift and effective action.


Compliance & Safety Audits


Ensures compliance with local safety regulations, hotel standards, and industry best practices by conducting regular safety audits and inspections.


Maintains all required safety certifications and ensures that the hotel remains current with any legal or regulatory requirements changes.


Uphold the highest standards of excellence by ensuring strict adherence to both Hotel Brand Service Standards and Forbes Service Standards.


Training & Team Member Education


Provides continuous training for all team members on safety and security protocols, emergency procedures, and proper use of safety equipment, ensuring the entire team is knowledgeable and prepared.


Conducts drills and simulations to test team members' readiness and enhance response capabilities.


Incident Investigation & Reporting


Investigate all safety and security incidents, prepare detailed reports, and recommend corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.


Communicates findings to hotel management and external authorities as needed.


Demonstrates the ability to conduct legally defensible investigations, including interviewing, evidence preservation, information retention, and comprehensive report writing. This also involves liaising with insurance companies during the claims process, particularly in situations where incidents or investigations may result in potential insurance claims.


Collaboration & Stakeholder Communication


Works closely with all hotel departments to ensure a cohesive safety strategy and that safety measures are integrated into daily operations.


Liaises with local law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency services to maintain a strong support network and ensure alignment with external safety protocols.

What are we looking for?

A Director of Safety & Security serving Hilton Brands is always working on behalf of our Guests and working with other Team Members. To successfully fill this role, you should maintain the attitude, behaviours, skills, and values that follow:


Possess a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, or a related discipline. Proven experience in a safety and security management role, preferably within a hotel or hospitality environment. Pre-opening experience is an added advantage. Prior experience in law enforcement, military service, or corporate security is an advantage. Relevant certifications in safety management, first aid, CPR, and fire safety are mandatory. Well-versed in safety compliance, emergency response protocols, and risk management strategies, with strong crisis management capabilities and a proactive approach to maintaining a secure environment. Proficiency in security technologies and reporting systems. Strong leadership skills, with experience training and managing security teams. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with team members, guests, and external stakeholders.

What will it be like to work for Hilton?

Hilton is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For nearly a century, Hilton has offered business and leisure travellers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. Hilton is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Our vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality unites us as a team to create remarkable hospitality experiences around the world every day. And, our amazing Team Members are at the heart of it all!