Security Operations Manager

Location: Belfast City Airport

Role Purpose

The Security Operations Manager (SOM) holds full accountability for the delivery, performance and strategic development of the security operation at Belfast City Airport. This is a high-profile, operational leadership role responsible for protecting people, infrastructure and reputation, while ensuring the security service operates in line with client objectives, regulatory requirements and best practice.

As the senior security lead on site, the SOM provides visible, decisive leadership to a large and diverse security workforce and acts as the primary point of contact for the client on all operational security matters. The role combines day-to-day operational control with forward-thinking strategy, continuous improvement and people development.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Provide overall leadership and direction for the airport security operation, ensuring services are delivered safely, professionally and in line with contractual and regulatory requirements.

• Work in close partnership with Regional Management and account teams to protect and manage both client and company expectations, driving a collaborative and solutions-focused approach.

• Maintain full operational oversight, ensuring all security staff clearly understand their roles, responsibilities and performance expectations.

• Act as the senior operational authority during critical or major incidents, taking command of the security response and ensuring effective coordination with internal and external stakeholders.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the key operational contact for the client on all security-related matters, building strong, trusted relationships across airport departments and services.

• Ensure effective communication of security issues, risks and performance, escalating concerns appropriately and proactively managing expectations.

• Represent the security function professionally within the airport environment, reinforcing confidence in the service delivered.

Compliance, Governance & Risk

• Ensure full compliance with all legal, contractual and regulatory obligations, including GDPR, Health & Safety legislation and Belfast City Airport policies and procedures.

• Develop, implement and maintain robust security policies, protocols and procedures aligned to industry best practice.

• Monitor operational risk and performance, identifying trends and implementing corrective or preventative actions as required.

Performance & Continuous Improvement

• Produce clear, insightful monthly performance and statistical reports demonstrating the effectiveness, resilience and value of the security operation.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the operation, using data, feedback and operational insight to enhance service delivery.

• Lead the strategic development of the security operation, planning for future requirements and evolving threats.

People Leadership & Development

• Lead, motivate and develop a large multi-disciplinary team including Managers, Supervisors, Officers and administrative staff.

• Take full responsibility for welfare, performance management, conduct and engagement across the security team.

• Ensure appropriate training is delivered in line with role, grade and individual development needs, drawing on both internal and external programmes.

• Build capability within the team by developing security skills, leadership strength and local operational knowledge to support succession and long-term stability.

Person Specification

Core Competencies

• Proven experience in managing and leading large operational teams

• Strong, confident decision-making, particularly in pressured or critical situations

• High levels of self-motivation and personal accountability

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Strong business acumen with commercial and contractual awareness

• Demonstrated operational excellence within a regulated environment

• Strategic thinking with the ability to plan, forecast and drive change

• Effective customer and stakeholder management

• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills

Essential / Desirable Requirements

• Valid SIA licence (essential).

• Previous Security Operations experience in a complex or regulated environment (preferred).