Safety & Security Manager

The Safety & Security Manager is responsible for the development, implementation, and management of all safety and security systems during the pre-opening and operational phases of the hotel. This includes establishing procedures to protect guests, employees, assets, and property in compliance with local laws and brand standards. The role requires strong pre-opening expertise, including the setup of physical security systems, coordination with contractors, and management of the outsourced security service provider to ensure efficient and professional operations before and after the hotel opening.

Pre-Opening Phase

• Work with the project and engineering teams to review and provide input on CCTV, access control, fire alarm, and emergency systems.
• Lead the commissioning and testing of all security and life safety systems, including fire alarms, CCTV, electronic door locks, emergency lighting, and panic systems.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for hotel security, access control, visitor management, emergency response, and incident reporting.
• Prepare and manage the department’s pre-opening budget (CAPEX and OPEX), including procurement of security equipment, radios, uniforms, and first aid kits.
• Coordinate with HR to recruit, vet, and train the in-house security and safety team.
• Develop and deliver pre-opening safety and security training programs for all hotel staff, including fire drills, evacuation procedures, and emergency response.
• Liaise with local authorities (police, fire brigade, county officials) to ensure compliance and establish working relationships.
• Manage the selection and onboarding of an outsourced security firm, including contract development, performance standards, and service-level agreements (SLAs).
• Conduct risk assessments of the property before opening and ensure proper mitigation measures are implemented.

Post-Opening / Operational Phase

• Oversee day-to-day safety and security operations, ensuring protection of guests, staff, and hotel assets at all times.
• Supervise and evaluate the performance of the outsourced security guards and ensure compliance with hotel standards and conduct.
• Conduct regular security briefings, drills, and patrol inspections across all areas of the hotel (guest rooms, public areas, back-of-house, parking, and perimeter).
• Monitor and maintain all security systems (CCTV, access control, alarms), ensuring functionality and prompt repairs where necessary.
• Develop and maintain incident reporting and investigation procedures, ensuring timely documentation and follow-up.
• Manage and update the Emergency Response and Crisis Management Plan, ensuring readiness for fire, medical, or security emergencies.
• Coordinate with HR on staff discipline, investigations, and loss-prevention initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations and support the implementation of hotel-wide safety programs.
• Conduct risk and vulnerability assessments periodically and recommend improvements.
• Maintain strong liaison with local police, emergency services, and regulatory bodies.
• Prepare and present regular reports to management on security performance, incidents, and preventive actions.

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Security Management, Criminology, or a related field.
• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive experience in hospitality or corporate security, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven pre-opening hotel experience, including setup of physical and operational security systems.
• Hands-on experience with CCTV, access control systems, fire detection systems, and life safety equipment.
• Experience in managing outsourced security providers and monitoring performance.
• Knowledge of Kenya Private Security Regulation Act and relevant national safety standards (or local equivalent).
• Strong leadership, communication, and crisis management skills.
• Certification in First Aid, Fire Safety, or Occupational Health and Safety is an advantage.
• Experience working with multinational or branded hotel standards preferred.

• Leadership and team management
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• Crisis management and emergency response
• Vendor and contract management
• Communication and coordination with authorities
• Investigation and reporting
• Health, safety, and environmental compliance
• Staff training and development
• Integrity and confidentiality

• Timely completion of security pre-opening deliverables
• Compliance with safety and security regulations and brand standards
• Reduced incident rates and property loss
• Effective performance and discipline of outsourced guards
• Guest and employee satisfaction on safety and security
• Staff completion of safety and emergency training programs
• Readiness and efficiency during emergency drills or incidents