CBRE Group, Inc

Security & Life Safety Manager

CBRE Group, Inc • $100K — $120K *
Real Estate & Construction
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED with 5+ years in security management, ideally in a Class A commercial environment.
  • Direct managerial experience overseeing high-rise, multi-use complexes over 1 million square feet.
  • Proficient in security systems like ACMS and CCTV, with prior experience in emergency management.
  • Experience interfacing with senior executives, institutional ownership, and high-profile tenants.
  • In-depth knowledge of security legislation, fire and life safety systems, and workplace investigations.
  • Strong leadership capabilities with a track record in managing critical incidents and emergencies.
  • Budget management experience including operational and capital projects.

Responsibilities

  • Lead security operations and ensure strategic alignment with client objectives.
  • Enhance the Security Operations Centre for effective incident management and communication.
  • Develop and implement a multi-year security strategy focusing on risk mitigation and tenant engagement.
  • Oversee security planning for major events and emergency response activities.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and manage relationships with local law enforcement and emergency services.
  • Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and implement corrective measures to enhance security protocols.
  • Foster a security culture that prioritizes tenant experience while maintaining stringent safety standards.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive training and professional development opportunities.
  • Access to cutting-edge security technology and systems.
  • Collaborative work environment emphasizing leadership and mentorship.
  • Engagement with high-profile tenants and local law enforcement.
  • Opportunities to spearhead community safety initiatives and enhance public safety.
Full Job Description
About the Role:

The Security & Life Safety Manager is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational oversight, and continuous enhancement of all security, emergency preparedness, and life safety programs across Bay Adelaide Centre and 2 Queen Street East, representing more than 3.5 million square feet of premier Class A office and mixed-use real estate in Toronto's downtown core. At the center of this portfolio is Bay Adelaide Centre, one of Toronto's most prestigious commercial office complexes, complemented by oversight of 2 Queen Street East, a critical transit oriented asset directly connected to TTC Queen Station and the future Ontario Line. Together, these properties form a significant employment and transportation hub within the Financial District, requiring a sophisticated and integrated approach to security operations, emergency management, stakeholder engagement, and public safety.

This role is accountable for ensuring the safety and security of tenants, employees, contractors, visitors, and the public through the effective management of security operations, life safety systems, emergency response planning, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation initiatives. The position oversees all security personnel, physical security infrastructure, and third-party service providers, ensuring adherence to applicable legislation, industry best practices, client expectations, and CBRE corporate standards.

As a key member of the property leadership team, the Security & Life Safety Manager provides leadership in daily security operations, crisis management, business continuity planning, tenant engagement, and stakeholder relations. The role fosters strong partnerships with external agencies and community partners, including Toronto Police Service (52 Division and Community Response Unit), PATH-COMM, emergency services, Metrolinx, TTC and municipal authorities to support a safe, secure, and welcoming environment across all assets.

The Security & Life Safety Manager applies security risk management principles to identify, assess, and mitigate risks while safeguarding people, property, operations, and reputation. This position is responsible for maintaining compliance with all applicable government regulations, fire and life safety requirements, and CBRE policies, while driving continuous improvement and operational excellence across the portfolio.

What You'll Do:

Security Operations & Leadership
• Oversee security operations, manage budgets, and ensure timely delivery of departmental objectives and service commitments.
• Oversee the operation and continuous enhancement of the Security Operations Centre (SOC), ensuring effective monitoring, incident management, dispatching, and emergency communications across the Bay Adelaide Centre complex.
• Manage day-to-day security and life safety operations, electronic security systems, investigations, and emergency preparedness activities.
• Develop and execute a multi-year Security & Life Safety strategy aligned with the client, CBRE, and asset management objectives.
• Provide monthly compliance reporting to ownership and senior leadership on security performance metrics, emerging risks, incidents, and capital project initiatives.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance security operations, tenant experience, and operational efficiency.
• Lead security planning for large scale events, demonstrations, labour disruptions, severe weather events, and other business continuity risks.
• Provide formal supervision to employees including recruiting, hiring, coaching, performance evaluations, training, development, and retention.
• Oversee administration and maintenance of CCTV, access control, alarm monitoring, and related security technologies.
• Lead evaluation of emerging physical security technologies including AI-enabled video analytics, visitor management systems, security automation, and integrated command centre solutions.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency through technology and process innovation.
• Coordinate daily activities, schedules, staffing assignments, and cross training initiatives.
• Implement security procedures and ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
• Act as primary point of contact for tenants, clients, stakeholders, and department managers.
• Lead by example and model CBRE RISE values when engaging in diplomatic and high-profile tenant environments.
• Develop and maintain security protocols for high-profile tenants and security sensitive occupancies.
• Foster a customer service focused security culture that balances risk mitigation with exceptional tenant experience.
• Participate in key tenant meetings and support relationship management activities related to security, emergency preparedness, and special events.
• Support tenant onboarding activities including security orientations, access control planning, and emergency preparedness programs.
• Coordinate security operations and emergency response planning with diplomatic security personnel, local and global law enforcement agencies, intelligence partners, and government stakeholders.
• Conduct threat, vulnerability, and risk assessments for high-profile tenants and special events.
• Manage security considerations related to demonstrations, protests, dignitary visits, geopolitical events, and elevated threat conditions.
• Maintain awareness of geopolitical and regional security developments affecting diplomatic occupants.
• Develop strong working relationships with emergency services, protective services, government agencies, and law enforcement partners.
• Develop, implement, maintain, and test Emergency Response Plans, Business Continuity Plans, and Crisis Management procedures.
• Lead emergency response activities during incidents and coordinate with tenants, emergency services, government agencies, clients, and stakeholders.
• Protect the organization and clients from damage and loss through training in fire safety, emergency response, life safety, and first aid.
• Manage fire and life safety programs including fire drills, inspections, fire system testing, evacuation procedures, and corrective action programs.
• Coordinate with fire protection vendors, AHJs, and property management stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, codes, standards, and policies related to security, life safety, emergency management, and occupational health and safety.
• Develop and implement strategies addressing vulnerable persons, mental health related incidents, and community safety concerns in collaboration with community partners and Toronto Police.
• Lead audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews and ensure corrective actions are completed.
• Monitor and assess information from credible sources regarding potential security risks and emerging threats impacting the property, tenants, and surrounding community.
• Conduct security risk assessments, threat assessments, and vulnerability assessments.
• Lead investigations involving security incidents, workplace violence, theft, property damage, alarms, and emergencies.
• Analyze incident trends and implement corrective measures to reduce risk.

Contract, Vendor & Technology Management
• Manage security and life safety contracts including guard services, monitoring agreements and providers, maintenance vendors, and consultants.
• Monitor vendor performance, service level agreements, and budget compliance.
• Stay current with innovative technologies, emerging risks, and advancements in physical security and life safety systems.
• Apply knowledge of the security discipline and collaborate across departments to achieve organizational objectives.

What You'll Need:
  • High School Diploma or GED with 5+ years of job-related experience. Prior shift manager or supervisory experience preferred. Active local or national security staff certification requirements.
  • Direct managerial experience in security and life safety, overseeing a Class A commercial office environment exceeding 1 million square feet.
  • Experience working in a high-rise commercial multi-use complex and knowledge working with ACMS and CCTV is preferred.
  • Experience working directly with institutional ownership groups, senior executives, and high-profile tenants.
  • Must be knowledgeable in security legislation, governing codes, fire and life safety systems and conducting workplace investigations.
  • Experience in interviewing, motivating, leading, and mentoring staff
  • Demonstrated experience managing critical incidents and leading teams during emergencies.
  • 5+ years' experience in developing/managing operational and capital expenditure for fiscal budgets.
  • Support major capital projects, tenant fit-outs, and construction activities through risk assessments, access control planning, and life safety reviews.
  • Participate in design reviews and security planning associated with redevelopment projects and building enhancements.
  • A strong history of community involvement and leadership is an asset.
  • Excellent operational knowledge of fire alarm and security systems including ACMS, intercoms, elevator controls, 2-way radios, telephones, duress system, CCTV, CCURE, and key control and security related technologies.
  • Strong skills in MS Word/Excel/PowerPoint/Outlook within an Office/Windows environment.
  • Knowledge of procurement systems such as P2P, Pulse
EDUCATION/DESIGNATIONS/LICENSES:
• Strong working knowledge of the criminal code as it applies to trespass, young offenders etc.
• Industry recognized certification (CPP) or equivalent experience and training preferred.
• Certification in Emergency Management (CEM, AEM, or equivalent) considered an asset.
• First Aid/CPR certification required or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Incident Command System (ICS 100/200/300) certification considered an asset.
• Must be knowledgeable with the PSISA and relevant workplace health and safety legislation including OHSA, WHMIS and Workplace Violence (requires federal, provincial, and local legislation knowledge).
• Must be able to obtain Level 2 Security Clearance with the Government of Canada if required.

About CBRE Group, Inc

CBRE is a vertically integrated global commercial real estate services and investment firm. The company was established in 1992 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, United States.

CBRE Group, Inc Careers

Join the world-class team at CBRE Group, Inc, the global leader in real estate services and investment. At CBRE, we are committed to fostering a culture of innovation, diversity, and professional growth. Our team is composed of industry-leading experts who are passionate about shaping the future of real estate.

Work You’ll Do

At CBRE, you will have the opportunity to engage in transformative projects that reshape the landscape of modern real estate. Our professionals lead with expertise and a deep understanding of industry needs, making CBRE the epitome of excellence in the real estate sector.

Explore Job Opportunities and Internships

Whether you're starting your career or looking to make a significant impact in the real estate industry, CBRE offers a range of job opportunities and internships that will harness your skills and expand your horizons. From positions in management to roles in research and analytics, your perfect job awaits.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation and leadership go hand in hand. CBRE empowers its employees to take the lead on projects, encouraging a culture of leadership that permeates every level of the company. With CBRE, you can transform your career trajectory through meaningful work that drives the real estate market forward.

Professional Growth and Development

CBRE is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees. With comprehensive diversity training and leadership development programs, we ensure that every team member has the resources to succeed. Our commitment to professional development is unmatched, offering continuous learning opportunities and career advancement.

Benefits and Culture

At CBRE, we understand that our employees are our greatest asset. That’s why we offer competitive benefits that support both your professional and personal life. Our inclusive culture champions diversity, encouraging a workplace where every voice is heard and valued.

Networking and Career Advancement

Enhance your career through CBRE’s vast networking opportunities. Connect with industry leaders, participate in global conferences, and engage in groundbreaking projects. Our robust networking channels foster connections that lead to dynamic career opportunities and lasting professional relationships.

Join Our Team

Ready to advance your career at CBRE Group, Inc? Explore our current job openings and find out how your skills and interests align with our needs. We are always on the lookout for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players.

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Apply Now

Start your journey with CBRE today. Submit your resume, prepare for your interview, and get ready to join a company where your career will flourish. Let’s build a better future together.

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Learn more about CBRE Group, Inc
Size
105,000 employees
Market Cap
$23.8 billion
Industry
Net Income
$751.9 million
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+9.8%
Revenue
$23.8 billion
NASDAQ

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