Program director Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Director

The Global Clients Americas (GCA) Program Director serves as a trusted security advisor and strategic business partner to high-value multinational clients across complex, multi site portfolios. This role provides end-to-end leadership in the design, execution, and continuous improvement of global security programs aligned with both client goals and Securitas' capabilities, through strong collaboration with field leadership, including DMs and AVPs, to ensure operational alignment and accountability. The GCA PD drives innovation, operational excellence, and growth, while ensuring seamless service delivery, risk mitigation, and enterprise value.

This position applies only to administrative employees in salaried supervisory roles managing a specific account or portfolio, with limited (<40%) performance of subordinate duties.

Functions may be assigned or modified based on business needs.

Serves as a key point of contact and advisor to client executive stakeholders, consulting on emerging security risks, program transformation, and resilience strategies.

Leads the development and execution of a security program strategy for the assigned account(s); ensures global standardization, innovation, and client alignment.

Owns full P&L responsibility, analyzing operational and financial indicators to improve performance and profitability; oversees invoicing, receivables, and compliance with contractual terms.

Facilitates long-term client relationships through proactive engagement and quarterly business reviews; supports global contract transitions, start-ups, and RFP responses.

Coordinates and leads Security Risk Reviews and assessments using industry best practices and client-specific tools.

Champions integration of technology, digital tools, and automation across the account; partners with Securitas Solutions Technology (SST) to drive enterprise wide transformation.

Maintains KPI dashboards, benchmarks performance trends, and leads strategic initiatives that yield cost savings, service consistency, and risk reduction.

Provides strategic direction in global security planning, governance, and harmonization of policies, post orders, and operating procedures across all client regions.

Mentors high-performing regional teams; ensures talent development, retention, succession planning, and leadership alignment with Securitas' global leadership framework.

Ensures appropriate staffing levels, labor cost control, and consistent scheduling practices in close collaboration with District Managers (DMs), Area Vice Presidents (AVPs), and other field leaders to maintain operational excellence and program consistency.

Supports global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, including DE&I, sustainability, and corporate responsibility practices that reflect client values and Securitas' mission.

Innovates to enhance working practices and program models; identifies emerging opportunities and solves complex challenges using quality planning and decision making.

Coordinates and evaluates service delivery with alliance partners and Securitas branches globally; establishes best practices and ensures the application of the GCA model worldwide.

Leads strategic budgeting processes for client guard services and security technology deployments.

Manages contract compliance, document governance, and post-order alignment across the client's global footprint.

Minimum qualifications at entry:

Additional qualifications may be specified and receive preference, depending upon the nature of the position.

Education: Bachelor's Degree preferred.

Experience: 510 years of progressively responsible management experience in security program management or a related field.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams.
• Experience with Oracle, Vision, SharePoint.
• Proficiency in data analytics platforms; familiarity with physical security technologies and platforms.

Other Skills:

• Experience managing large-scale, multi-country programs and cross functional teams.
• Executive-level communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to operate across cultural, regulatory, and time zone differences.
• Strong consultative, planning, and governance capabilities.
• Strategic mindset with an innovation-forward approach to client solutions.

"Securitas is committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other applicable legally protected characteristic."