The role of the Chief Security Officer is to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of all security functions, ensuring a safe, secure, and compliant environment across the resort, safari lodge, and conservation areas. This role operates within a wildlife sanctuary setting, requiring flexible hours including weekends, holidays, and emergencies. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience, with full details shared during the recruitment process.
Introduction to Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa
Located at the main entrance to the Sanctuary, Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa is an inviting stone building of 60 spacious rooms and two suites, all with their own private viewing balcony. It features a museum that displays some of the World War 1 memorabilia as part of the rich history of Taita Taveta County.
Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa is situated at the main entrance to the Taita Hills Sanctuary in South Eastern Kenya, 400 km from Nairobi and 200 km from Mombasa. Travel options include an hour flight from Nairobi or 30 minutes from Mombasa by private charter, landing at the hotel’s own airstrip. The sanctuary is approximately a 3-hour drive from Mombasa and a 6-hour drive from Nairobi on tarmac roads.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Develop and enforce comprehensive security policies and procedures.
- Conduct regular security risk assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities.
- Coordinate security operations with law enforcement, wildlife authorities, and partners.
- Oversee access control systems and ensure 24/7 security coverage.
- Ensure compliance with all local, national, and international security regulations.
- Develop and implement emergency response plans for fire, medical, theft, poaching, and natural disasters.
- Lead incident response efforts and conduct investigations when necessary.
- Organize regular emergency drills and staff preparedness training.
- Collaborate with conservation teams to prevent poaching and illegal wildlife activities.
- Support partnerships with national park authorities and community rangers.
- Monitor wildlife and sanctuary boundaries using surveillance systems.
- Maintain a safe and secure environment for guests and staff at all times.
- Develop and communicate safety guidelines and emergency procedures to staff and guests.
- Train staff on security awareness, personal safety, and crisis response.
- Handle guest-related security concerns professionally and discreetly.
- Manage CCTV, alarms, fencing, communications, and access control systems.
- Ensure all security equipment is maintained and functioning properly.
- Support cybersecurity measures to protect guest and company data.
- Lead, train, and manage the security team, including recruitment and performance oversight.
- Promote a strong culture of safety, vigilance, and accountability across the organization.
Qualifications and Experience
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Criminology, Law Enforcement, or a related field.
- Professional certification in security risk management, crisis management, or wildlife protection is an added advantage.
- First Aid and Fire Safety certification is preferred.
Experience
- Minimum of 5-7 years' experience in security management or a related field.
- Prior experience in hospitality, tourism, wildlife conservation, or remote environments is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated leadership experience managing security operations and emergency situations.
Skills & Competencies
- In-depth knowledge of security protocols, risk assessment, and emergency response planning.
- Strong leadership abilities with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to perform effectively under pressure in high-risk or fast-paced environments.
- Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
- Good understanding of local security regulations, wildlife conservation policies, and tourism sector requirements.
