How to Become a Security Manager

Have you been working in the security industry and feel like you’re ready for the next step up? Here’s how you know you are ready to become a Security Manager:

– You have gained a few years of experience and know the ins and outs of your role

– You want to progress within your career.

– Your skills and experience are too valuable to remain in a typical front-line security role.

Below you will see all the qualifications, experience, role responsibilities, and characteristics you need to have – so let’s get started.

Qualifications

As you can probably guess, it is a mandatory requirement that Security Managers have a valid SIA Door Supervisor Licence or SIA Security Guard Licence. 

TOP TIP

(In most cases, the SIA Door Supervisor Licence will be preferred over the SIA Security Guard Licence.)

In addition to the above qualifications, your employer may ask that you hold a valid SIA CCTV Licence, as well as an Emergency First Aid at Work Certificate.

These additional qualifications will ensure that you are ready to deal with any situation that could arise while you’re on duty. 

Experience

Prior experience will likely be required when applying for any management role. 

In this case, having previous experience as a Door Supervisor or Security Guard will help you immensely. 

The exact amount of experience that is required will vary depending on the company you are looking to work for. However, an estimate of 2 years of experience is often a good guideline.

Any additional customer service or team management experience will also assist you in your application, as these relate to the position requirements. 

TOP TIP

(TIP: Always alter your CV to fit any position that you are applying for. Make it clear how your previous experiences relate to the role you are currently applying for.

CV Example;

McDonald’s Manager 

June 2018 – June 2020

At McDonald’s, I was responsible for communicating with customers and maintaining safety and organisational standards throughout our staff. Having this experience has made me confident in my ability to manage large teams and work through challenging situations.)

Changing your wording will show the employer that you can reflect on your previous skill sets and are capable of applying them to varying situations.

Role Responsibilities

Role responsibilities will somewhat vary depending on the company you are applying for, as well as the industry this company is based in. 

For example, your daily responsibilities working in a warehouse environment as a Security Manager may vary from those who are working at a hospital. 

However, at the end of the day, your highest priority as a Security Manager will be to assist your team, manage operations, and ensure that all safety procedures are followed correctly. 

Characteristics 

Some specific characteristics are required to be a good manager. Some of these qualities could include things such as;

– Leadership/Team Management Mindset

– Strategic Thinking

– Stress Tolerance

– Empathy

– “Can Do” Attitude

Though some of these points may come as obvious, it’s necessary to review them as many people find themselves in a management position without identifying with these suitable traits. 

Random Fun Facts

– Ed Sheeran’s bodyguard, Kevin Myers, is nearly as famous as the singer/songwriter himself! Have you seen his Instagram yet?!

While you’re there, you can give us a follow too!

– Did you know that Donald Trump’s Bodyguard often uses fake arms to hide weapons? We sure didn’t.

Looking for jobs? 

To find the latest security jobs, check out our Jobs Board, which has 1,000+ jobs from the UK’s best security companies. 

If you’re on the hunt for a security job on the go, download the GuardPass app for all the latest jobs and more. The GuardPass App is available for download on the Apple App Store or on the Google Play Store.