Head of Security Service

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research organization established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's mission is to advance knowledge in the field of particle physics and to foster international collaboration in scientific research. The organization operates across multiple countries, primarily in Switzerland and France, and is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, employing a workforce from various Member States and Associate Member States.

Job Overview:
The position of Head of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Service at CERN is a pivotal leadership role within the Site and Civil Engineering (SCE) Department. The successful candidate will be responsible for shaping and implementing the organization's security strategy, ensuring the protection of people, assets, and infrastructure across CERN's sites in France and Switzerland. This role requires a strategic mindset and operational excellence, as the individual will lead the Security Service, manage a team, and coordinate with various stakeholders to ensure a secure environment for all CERN operations. The position offers a unique opportunity to work in a mission-driven, international setting, contributing to the safety and security of one of the world's most significant scientific institutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Security Service will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including defining, maintaining, and continuously developing CERN's overall security strategy. This involves preparing proposals and recommendations for the Directorate, leading and organizing the Security Service, and ensuring effective team management. The individual will be tasked with developing and overseeing the implementation of CERN's security policy, which includes principles governing site access rights. Additionally, the role requires planning, validating, and supervising special security arrangements for high-level visits and major events, ensuring appropriate prioritization of resources. The Head of Security Service will represent the Security Service both internally and externally, working closely with key stakeholders. They will also define the contractual strategy for security services, manage tenders and contracts, and ensure compliance with agreed standards. Furthermore, the individual will define security requirements for new infrastructures and major renovation projects, continuously monitoring developments in security technologies and proposing improvements suited to CERN's environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Security Management, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Public Security, Risk Management, or a related field. Formal training or certification in security management, crisis management, law enforcement command, or protective security is considered an asset. Proven experience in managing security strategy, contracts, and operations within an institutional environment, such as police, state security, military, or within a large industrial site, university campus, or international organization, is essential. A solid background in risk assessment, threat analysis, incident management, and business continuity planning is highly desirable. Knowledge of Swiss and/or French legal frameworks and experience working with public authorities and security services is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Security Management, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Public Security, or Risk Management. Additional certifications or formal training in security management or crisis management are advantageous and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in managing security strategies and operations, particularly within complex institutional environments. This includes experience in risk assessment, incident management, and the ability to develop and implement security policies effectively. Experience in managing security arrangements for high-level visits and events is also crucial, as is the ability to translate operational expertise into clear security procedures and requirements.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn English being an essential requirement. Proficiency in English would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing communication within the international environment at CERN.

Additional Notes:
The position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the role is fully onsite, requiring residence in the immediate vicinity of CERN's installations. The position may involve interventions in underground installations, and candidates must possess a valid driving license. The role may also require working during nights, Sundays, and official holidays, as well as standby duty when necessary. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is SCE-DHO-2026-77-LD.