Director of Security - Port Operations

ENSTRUCTURE LLC•Wilmington, DE

About The Position

The Director of Security – Port Operations is responsible for the strategic planning, implementation, and management of all security operations across port facilities, terminals, and maritime interfaces. This role ensures compliance with national and international maritime security regulations, protects port assets and personnel, and maintains the safe, secure, and uninterrupted flow of cargo and vessels. The Director serves as the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) or oversees designated PFSOs, leading risk management, emergency preparedness, and coordination with government agencies and private stakeholders.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Security Management, Criminal Justice, Maritime Studies, Public Administration, or related field
10+ years of progressive experience in security management, maritime security, or critical infrastructure protection
Minimum 5 years in a senior leadership or director-level role
Experience in port, terminal, logistics, transportation, or large industrial environments
In-depth knowledge of maritime security regulations and port operations
Strong leadership, decision-making, and crisis management skills
Excellent communication and stakeholder coordination abilities
Proven ability to manage complex security programs and large teams
Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred
Certified Protection Professional (CPP)
Physical Security Professional (PSP)
Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) certification
FEMA / emergency management training

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and continuously improve the Port Security Program and Security Master Plans
Establish security policies, procedures, and standards aligned with port operations and business objectives
Advise executive leadership on security risks, trends, and mitigation strategies
Ensure compliance with ISPS Code, MTSA, TSA, Coast Guard, customs, and other applicable maritime security regulations
Serve as or supervise the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)
Manage audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews by authorities
Oversee 24/7 security operations across terminals, gates, waterfronts, and restricted areas
Conduct security risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and threat evaluations
Implement access control, perimeter protection, CCTV, intrusion detection, and cybersecurity coordination
Lead port security incident response, investigations, and after-action reviews
Coordinate emergency preparedness, drills, and exercises (security, terrorism, natural disasters, and critical incidents)
Act as a key member of the Port Emergency Management Team
Serve as the primary liaison with law enforcement, coast guard, customs, intelligence agencies, and emergency services
Coordinate security activities with terminal operators, shipping lines, tenants, and contractors
Participate in maritime security committees and working groups
Lead, train, and evaluate security management and contracted security personnel
Develop and manage the security department budget and capital investments
Oversee contracts for security services, systems, and technology vendors
Oversee implementation and lifecycle management of security technologies
Evaluate emerging threats and technologies to enhance port security resilience
Ensure integration of physical security systems with operational and IT systems