Security Operations Manager

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities. GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity set the standards in our industry, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies. And we’re committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries, we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job Summary

The Security Operations Manager (SOM) will work as an integral member of the Central Security Team (CST), providing Governance & Assurance, Audit, Training & Awareness, and Operational support to the business. The key objective of the CST is to ensure that GKN Aerospace protects its People, Property, Assets, Information, and Reputation, ensuring compliance with contractual, legal, and regulatory obligations, meeting business requirements, and maintaining its ‘License to Operate.’ The SOM will play an important role in achieving this. The SOM will demonstrate a strong background, knowledge, and experience in Security, with the ability to work strategically and operationally, guiding senior leaders and manufacturing sites. The role requires expertise in Personnel Security, Physical Security, Technical Security Systems, Physical Information Security, Travel Security, Events Security, Crisis Management, and Response. A key element involves supporting the integration of the Security function across GKN Aerospace, implementing governance frameworks, providing audit capabilities, delivering training, and offering operational support to Business Line Security Leads and Site Security Managers. Internal collaboration with stakeholders such as Business Line COOs, Security Leads, HR, Procurement, Export Control, and external liaison with authorities and third-party providers is essential to foster a security culture and deliver value.

US and Mexico Focus

In addition to global responsibilities, the SOM will serve as the SME for security management in the US and Mexico, ensuring regional alignment, providing tailored advice, supporting policy implementation, monitoring threats, and overseeing regional audits.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a governance framework, including Security Policy, Standards, and Guidelines.
• Participate in audit programs to review practices, identify gaps, and support improvements.
• Deliver Security Awareness training through campaigns and incident-related sessions.
• Provide operational support to Business Lines and manufacturing sites.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to understand and support security requirements.
• Offer expertise in Physical Security controls, Technical Security systems, Personnel Security, and Physical Information Security.
• Guide Crisis Management planning, training, exercises, and real-time response support.
• Conduct investigations as appropriate.

Job Qualifications

• US National; appointment subject to security clearance.
• Proactive team-player and self-starter, capable of managing multiple programs across geographies.
• Expertise in Security risk management and incident response.
• Knowledge of Threat, Vulnerability, and Risk Assessment methodologies.
• Experience in developing security plans, processes, and procedures.
• Knowledge of physical and technical security controls.
• Understanding of Physical Information Security and associated risks.
• Experience managing international travel security risk plans.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years in Security Risk Management, security management in a corporate or aerospace environment.
• Relevant academic qualifications, law enforcement background.
• Excellent communication skills, investigations experience, data protection knowledge, and budget management experience.

We offer fantastic challenges and opportunities. Join us to be part of an organization at the forefront of aerospace innovation, with the best training in the industry. Your career can go as far as your ambitions take you.

A Great Place to Work

Everyone is welcome to apply. We believe in diversity, inclusion, and belonging, creating a culture where everyone can contribute. We’re committed to accessible recruitment and reasonable adjustments during the process. Join us—where human dreams and endeavour shape the future of aerospace technology.