Head of Event Security

ServiceNow•Santa Clara, CA

7h•$184,100 - $322,200•Hybrid

About The Position

ServiceNow's Global Safety & Security organization is committed to protecting ServiceNow's people, assets, and brand while pioneering the integration of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence to set new industry standards for safety, efficiency, and innovation. The Head of Event Security is a critical leadership position responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing a world-class global event security program that protects ServiceNow employees, executives, customers, and partners across all corporate events. This role encompasses the full spectrum of events—from flagship large-scale gatherings like Knowledge (15,000+ attendees) and Sales Kick Off to regional roadshows, customer engagements, and executive-attended events worldwide. Reporting directly to the SVP, Chief Security Officer, this role requires a strategic leader who can balance operational excellence with innovative program development, leveraging technology and intelligence to deliver seamless, scalable security solutions that enable business objectives while maintaining the highest duty of care standards.

Requirements

12+ years of progressive experience in corporate event security, physical security, or related security operations
5+ years in security leadership roles with demonstrated experience managing large-scale events (5,000+ attendees)
Proven track record developing and implementing comprehensive security programs from concept to execution
Experience managing multi-million dollar budgets and complex vendor relationships
Background in global/international event security operations across multiple geographies
Deep knowledge of event security principles, threat assessment methodologies, and risk mitigation strategies
Expertise in access control systems, surveillance technologies, emergency response protocols, and crisis management
Understanding of regulatory compliance requirements (duty of care, local permitting, venue regulations)
Familiarity with security technology trends, AI applications, and data analytics for security operations
Experience with incident command systems and emergency management frameworks
Exceptional leadership and people management skills with proven ability to build and develop high-performing teams
Strategic thinker with strong business acumen and ability to align security initiatives with business objectives
Outstanding communication and executive presence with ability to brief C-level stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to influence without direct authority and build cross-functional partnerships
Project management expertise with ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously
Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Criminal Justice, Business Administration, or related field (Master's preferred)
Professional certifications strongly preferred: CPP (Certified Protection Professional), PSP (Physical Security Professional), CPP-I (Certified Protection Professional-International), or equivalent
Industry-specific event security certifications a plus

Nice To Haves

Experience in technology industry or fast-paced, high-growth corporate environments
Background in executive protection or high-profile event security
International security operations experience with understanding of diverse cultural and regulatory environments

Responsibilities

Design and implement a comprehensive, scalable global event security framework aligned with ServiceNow's growth trajectory and evolving threat landscape
Develop multi-year roadmap for event security capabilities, incorporating emerging technologies, AI-driven risk assessment, and predictive analytics
Establish and maintain event security governance, policies, standards, and operating procedures across all event types and geographies
Define key performance indicators and metrics to measure program effectiveness, efficiency, and continuous improvement
Build strategic partnerships with internal stakeholders (Marketing, Sales, Real Estate, Legal, HR) to ensure security is integrated early in event planning cycles
Provide end-to-end security oversight for all ServiceNow corporate events, including: Large-scale flagship events (Knowledge, Sales Kick Off, partner summits) Regional events, roadshows, and customer briefing centers Executive-attended functions and C-suite engagements Virtual and hybrid event security considerations
Conduct comprehensive pre-event risk assessments and develop tailored mitigation strategies addressing potential threats, venue vulnerabilities, and compliance requirements
Manage on-site security operations including access control, protective coverage, emergency response, and incident management
Coordinate with GSOC, Intelligence, Executive Protection, and Regional Security teams to ensure unified security posture
Oversee vendor selection, management, and performance for third-party security providers
Ensure compliance with duty of care obligations, integrating defensible diligence throughout event planning and reinforcing ethical standards
Maintain current knowledge of global security threats, geopolitical risks, and venue-specific considerations affecting event security
Develop and maintain emergency response protocols, crisis management procedures, and business continuity plans for event disruptions
Ensure compliance with local, national, and international security regulations and venue requirements
Conduct post-event reviews, lessons learned analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives
Develop and manage annual event security budget, ensuring cost-efficiency while maintaining operational effectiveness
Optimize resource allocation leveraging scalable solutions, strategic vendor partnerships, and technology enablement
Implement financial controls and vendor management processes to ensure transparency and accountability
Identify opportunities for cost optimization without compromising security effectiveness or duty of care
Build, lead, and develop a high-performing event security team with clear roles, responsibilities, and career development paths
Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence
Provide mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities
Collaborate effectively across GSS functions and with broader ServiceNow organization
Champion the integration of emerging technologies (AI, predictive analytics, IoT sensors, real-time monitoring) to enhance event security capabilities
Partner with GSS Risk, Technology, and Enablement Services to leverage security systems and technological solutions
Drive innovation in threat detection, crowd management, access control, and emergency notification systems
Evaluate and implement security technologies that improve both effectiveness and attendee experience