At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security strategy and provide personal protection for senior executives.
- Company: Join YDS Group, a dynamic organisation with diverse business interests and high-value sites.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive insurance benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional training and development in a high-profile environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-growing team, ensuring safety and compliance while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in close protection and corporate security leadership required.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 58000 £ per year.
Position: Head of Security & Personal Protection
Do you have the right skills and experience for this role Read on to find out, and make your application.
Reports to: Group CEO / Board of Directors
Salary: £50,000
Location: UK Wide - mainly based from Leeds
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
About YDS Group
YDS Group is a dynamic, fast-growing organisation with diverse business interests and a portfolio of high-value sites. We pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence, risk management, and duty of care for our people, assets, and partners. As part of our continued growth, we are seeking an experienced and highly professional Head of Security & Personal Protection to oversee all aspects of group security, risk and insurance management, while also providing personal protection services to senior leadership.
Role Overview
This is a dual-role position combining leadership of YDS Group’s overall security strategy with personal bodyguard responsibilities for the Group CEO and/or other senior executives. The successful candidate will ensure the protection of people, property, and reputation, manage insurance and risk exposures (with particular expertise in UK building insurances and regulations), and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and security standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Executive & Personal Protection
- Provide personal bodyguard services to the Group CEO and senior leadership, ensuring their safety and privacy at all times.
- Conduct threat and risk assessments for executive movements, events, and international travel.
- Maintain a discreet yet effective presence, with full situational awareness.
Security Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive security and risk management strategy across YDS Group.
- Lead, train, and manage internal security staff and external providers.
- Oversee the security of high-value sites and assets across the Group.
Insurance & Risk Management
- Manage all insurance policies and claims for the Group, including specialist UK building insurances.
- Ensure compliance with UK building regulations and risk requirements to maintain adequate cover.
- Act as the primary liaison with insurers, brokers, and regulators.
Legal & Compliance
- Maintain in-depth knowledge of UK security laws, private security licensing (SIA), and data protection regulations.
- Ensure all security operations comply with relevant legislation and industry standards.
- Prepare reports and risk assessments for the Board on compliance and incident management.
Operational Security
- Oversee physical security systems and measures across high-value sites, including access control, surveillance, and incident response.
- Conduct regular site audits and inspections.
- Lead crisis management, emergency planning, and business continuity protocols.
Candidate Profile
Essential:
- Extensive experience in close protection / personal bodyguarding (ideally at corporate or UHNW level).
- Strong track record in leading corporate security functions, with responsibility for multiple high-value sites.
- Detailed knowledge of UK building insurance policies and compliance with building regulations.
- Comprehensive understanding of UK security law, regulatory frameworks, and SIA requirements.
- Excellent leadership, organisational, and crisis management skills.
- Discretion, integrity, and ability to operate at board and executive level.
Desirable:
- Accredited qualifications in close protection, corporate security, or risk management.
- Experience in liaising with law enforcement, insurers, and regulators.
- Military, police, or government protective services background.
Package & Benefits:
- Competitive executive-level salary & performance bonus
- Comprehensive insurance and benefits package
- Access to professional training and development
- Opportunity to work within a high-profile, fast-growing group with significant responsibility
Head of Security in Leeds employer: YDS Group
YDS Group is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive executive-level salary and a comprehensive benefits package, all while fostering a culture of operational excellence and professional growth. Based in Leeds but with a UK-wide presence, employees enjoy the unique opportunity to work within a dynamic, fast-growing organisation that prioritises the safety and well-being of its people and assets, alongside significant responsibilities in security leadership and personal protection.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Security in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the security industry, especially those who have experience in corporate security and close protection. Attend relevant events or seminars to meet potential contacts who might provide insights or referrals for the Head of Security role.
✨Tip Number 2
Research YDS Group thoroughly to understand their business interests and security needs. Tailor your discussions during interviews to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their specific requirements and challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and crisis management experiences in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led security teams and managed high-stakes situations in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on UK security laws and regulations, particularly those related to building insurance and compliance. Being knowledgeable about current legal frameworks will show your commitment to maintaining high standards in security management.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Security in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in security management and personal protection. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held and specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to oversee security strategies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Discuss your experience with risk assessments, insurance management, and compliance with UK security laws, showcasing how you can add value to YDS Group.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:If you have any accredited qualifications in close protection or corporate security, make sure to mention them prominently. This will help demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
Showcase Leadership Skills:In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed security operations in the past. Highlight your crisis management skills and ability to operate at an executive level, as these are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at YDS Group
✨Showcase Your Experience
Make sure to highlight your extensive experience in close protection and corporate security. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed security for high-value sites and provided personal protection to executives.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As this role involves leading a team, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Share instances where you've trained or managed security staff, and explain how you foster a culture of safety and compliance within your team.
✨Know the Legal Landscape
Familiarise yourself with UK security laws, private security licensing (SIA), and building regulations. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your previous roles and how you would approach this at YDS Group.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your crisis management and risk assessment skills. Think about past situations where you've had to make quick decisions under pressure and be ready to articulate your thought process.
