The Security Department

The role of the security department is a difficult one. Incidents often involve on-the-spot decisions made under stressful circumstances. The rapport established by a security department employee with an upset guest can profoundly affect the guest’s perception of the hotel and may affect the course of subsequent legal action. A minimum standard of reasonable care, as defined by management must be maintained at all times. A professional and effective security department ensures the comfort, safely, and security of guests, employees and the corporation’s assets, and provides an indirect contribution to the hotel’s financial success.

The director of security, who reports to the general manager or resident manager, is responsible for implementing hotel security policies and procedures in coordination with the general manger and all department heads. Depending upon the size of the hotel, the director of security is usually supported by a staff that may include an assistant director and security officers.