Position SummaryThe Senior Security Specialist is responsible for overseeing day-to-day physical security operations at the firm's Washington, DC office. Situated in a high-profile, disruption-prone environment near the U.S. Capitol, White House, and other sensitive locations, this role provides on-the-ground security oversight to protect firm personnel, visitors, and assets. The position also supports firm-wide security initiatives and provides manager-level coverage for events, travel security, and operational support.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesTypical responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Manage daily physical security operations for the Washington DC office, including coordination with building management and security staff.
- Act as "boots on the ground" security presence, making routine rounds of each floor and interfacing regularly with building security.
- Serve as incident response lead for local security events, ensuring timely escalation and resolution.
- Monitor local intelligence sources and assess potential or emerging threats; respond as appropriate.
- Maintain working relationships with local law enforcement, first responders, and peer security professionals.
- Maintain working relationships with landlord and landlord-provided security personnel.
- Oversee local physical security systems in coordination with firm security systems leadership, including access control, CCTV, and intrusion detection systems.
- Support Business Continuity, Crisis Management, and life safety programs, including drills, floor warden coordination, plan updates, and training for the DC office.
- Act as the trusted security advisor to local office leadership, clearly presenting risks, mitigation strategies, and recommendations.
- Support the development, implementation, and enforcement of firm-wide security policies, procedures, and standards.
- Provide on-site security management for high-profile firm events and executive travel as required.
- Contribute to the growth, maturation, and governance of the firm's global security program.
Qualifications/Position Requirements- Minimum of five years of corporate or private-sector security experience.
- Strong working knowledge of physical security principles, risk assessment methodologies, and modern security technologies.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to brief and influence senior stakeholders.
- Ability to work non-traditional hours, including nights and weekends, during incidents or special events.
- High degree of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment.
Education and/or Experience/Preferred Qualifications:- College degree or experience commensurate with degree.
- Industry certification such as CPP or PSP.
- Experience developing security procedures, policies and related documentation.
- Demonstrated experience leading security integration projects, vendor selection, or budget management.
- Experience with corporate business continuity, crisis management, disaster recovery, and general project management.
- Background in threat intelligence, threat assessment, or corporate risk analysis.
CompensationThe expected base salary for this position ranges from $85,000-$100,000. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Davis Polk offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
