Sr. Manager, Security & Operations in Houston, Texas at Houston First

IN-PERSON - HOUSTON, TX.

Houston First recognizes and appreciates the importance of cultivating an environment that nurtures talent; that is equitable and values different perspectives and backgrounds; and, above all, is respectful to everyone. Our Mission is to create value and enhance economic prosperity by promoting the Houston region.

Houston First Corporation (HFC), the official destination marketing organization for the City of Houston, is seeking a Security Sr. Manager dedicated to supporting the safety, resilience, and operational excellence of our facilites.

The Sr. Manager, Security & Operations, ensures Houston First facilities remain safe, secure, and fully operational. This position oversees day‑to‑day security functions, coordinates personnel and building systems, and responds to incidents with sound judgment and urgency. The Sr. Manager serves as a primary point of contact during emergencies, proactively maintains facility readiness, and upholds exceptional standards of safety, service, and operational efficiency across all assigned properties.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• ☒ Supervises: HFC Contractors and specialists

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Leads and manages daily security operations across the convention center and performing arts venues
• Monitors surveillance and alarm systems, enforces access control protocols, and supervises security team performance.
• Conducts routine facility inspections to proactively identify and resolve safety risks, maintenance needs, and operational issues.
• Supervise security personnel, contract security teams, and event security staffing plans.
• Optimize performance of building systems, including HVAC, lighting, elevators, and water systems
• Serves as the primary contact for emergencies and after-hours incidents, responding swiftly and effectively
• Maintains detailed and accurate shift logs, incident reports, and maintenance documentation.
• Develops and implements security policies, procedures, and best practices
• Ensures seamless communication and operational handoff daily to management teams.
• Maintains a visible presence throughout the facility to deter risk and promptly address tenant and guest concerns.
• Coordinates comprehensive security plans for conventions, trade shows, concerts, theatrical productions, galas, sporting events, and VIP events
• Serves as liaison with local law enforcement, fire department, emergency management agencies, and public safety partners
• Monitors access control systems, CCTV operations, credentialing procedures, and perimeter security measures
• Investigate security incidents, accidents, thefts, and policy violations and prepare detailed reports.
• Develops and manages departmental budgets, contracts, and security-related expenditures.
• Supports a customer service-focused environment while maintaining safety and operational integrity
• Participates in after-hours, weekends, holidays, and on-call responsibilities as required by event operations

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree or professional designation through IAVM, preferred
• 5 years’ experience as a Security Event Manager in a convention center, arena, hotel, or similar environment is required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of security operations, emergency response procedures, and safety protocols
• Understanding of building systems, including HVAC, fire/life safety, electrical, and mechanical systems
• Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control, and alarm monitoring technologies
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and general workplace safety standards
• Understanding of facility operations, maintenance practices, and vendor coordination
• Knowledge of incident reporting, documentation standards, and risk mitigation practices
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and decisive during emergencies or critical incidents
• Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability
• Assess risks and take proactive measures to ensure safety and operational continuity
• Proficiency in using security systems, building management systems (BMS), and standard Microsoft Office tools
• Conflict resolution and customer service skills to address tenant, guest, or staff concerns

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• ☒ No major sources of discomfort; normal office environment
• ☒ Routine discomforts from exposure to moderate heat, cold, moisture, and unpleasant air conditions may involve routine exposure to soiled materials and chemical substances such as cleaning solutions.
• ☒ Ability to work weekends, evenings, and nights regularly
• ☒ Extra hours required occasionally to meet deadlines or work events
• ☒ Ability to travel to local/ tradeshows/conventions/ conferences/ training and development (less than 5% of the year)