Director of Protective Security & Risk Operations

Democracy Forward•Columbia, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Democracy Forward Foundation is seeking a mission-driven leader with a physical security background to join their team as the Director of Protective Security & Risk Operations. This collaborative and strategic professional will be responsible for developing and implementing the organization’s overall security strategy and risk management framework. The role involves monitoring the evolving security environment affecting staff, leadership, offices, and events, as well as deploying and directing security resources for staff travel. The position is full-time and based in Washington, DC, with flexibility for remote work but requiring regular in-office presence eight times per month. Frequent travel within the continental United States is also expected. The Director will report to the Chief of Staff & Operations and Deputy General Counsel and collaborate closely with the Executive Office and the Operations team.

Requirements

8–12+ years of professional experience in security, law enforcement, executive protection, military security operations, or corporate security.
High degree of discretion, sensitivity, and respect for confidentiality.
Strong communication, problem-solving, leadership skills.
Well-developed collaborative and interpersonal skills including demonstrated self-awareness, commitment to diversity and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

Background in federal law enforcement, Diplomatic Security, Secret Service, military protective services, or comparable executive protection roles.
Experience supporting senior executives, public officials, or high-profile principals.
Experience in nonprofit, advocacy, media, or other public-facing organizations.
Familiarity with protective intelligence, threat monitoring, or risk analysis practices.

Responsibilities

Partner with senior leadership and the Operations team to conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies related to travel, public engagements, offices, and organizational programs.
Develop and maintain security policies, procedures, and operational protocols, ensuring they remain aligned with organizational priorities and evolving risk landscapes.
Monitor the evolving security environment affecting staff, leadership, offices, and events.
Coordinate organizational responses to security incidents involving staff, leadership, or facilities.
Support post-incident review processes and improvements to security practices.
Help develop training and guidance for staff on safety and security best practices.
Coordinate protective security planning for staff and high-profile organizational activities.
Work closely with personnel protective service vendors to plan and execute travel coverage when needed.
Conduct advance planning and logistical coordination for staff travel and public events.
Support staff travel by assessing risks and coordinating security resources where appropriate.
Manage relationships with external security vendors and consultants.
Oversee vendor performance and ensure services meet organizational expectations and risk management standards.
Support procurement and budgeting related to security services.
Coordinate security support for offices, conferences, and events.
Support organizational leadership in cultivating a culture of accountability, inclusivity, and excellence, including through providing real-time support and skills-development for your team.