What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Security & Special Assistant to CEO position at EXTERNAL?
Summary
The Executive Security & Special Assistant is responsible for providing close protection and comprehensive administrative support to SHRM’s President & CEO. This role requires a high degree of discretion, adaptability, and professionalism, blending executive security with hands-on logistical and operational coordination.
The role ensures the President & CEO’s personal safety across all environments, including during travel and public engagements, while also managing complex scheduling, travel arrangements, and day-to-day operational support. The role demands physical readiness, sharp situational awareness, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to remain composed and effective in high-pressure situations. Availability to travel regularly, occasionally with short notice, is a key requirement of this role.
Responsibilities
Executive Security
Provides close, professional executive protection for the President & CEO during travel, public appearances, and day-to-day activities.
Conducts ongoing security risk assessments and implement proactive safety measures.
Maintains constant vigilance and situational awareness to identify and mitigate potential threats.
Plans and executes secure travel routes and coordinate with local security personnel and agencies when needed.
Monitor and manage physical security protocols and systems at various locations, including events and corporate offices.
Executive Support & Calendar Management
Manages an extensive and dynamic calendar, ensuring the CEO’s schedule is optimized and respected
Serves as a gatekeeper for access to the CEO’s time and office, balancing priorities and maintaining focus
Coordinates and manages internal and external engagements, including speaking engagements and public appearances
Travel & Logistics Coordination
Arranges complex domestic and international travel, including flights, lodging, ground transportation, and related logistics
Manages international responsibilities such as visa procurement and compliance with foreign travel requirements
Communication & Information Management
Reviews and triages incoming communications (internal and external), ensuring high-priority matters are addressed promptly
Supports stakeholder communication through routine follow-ups and relationship management
Project & Stakeholder Support
Assists with research, writing assignments, presentation development, logistics coordination, and note-taking
Ensures stakeholder needs are clearly documented, communicated, and considered in new and ongoing business initiatives
Supports continuous process improvement and acts as a strategic partner in operational planning
Customer Service & Relationship Management
Provides a high-quality, service-oriented environment for internal and external stakeholders
Creates a “WOW” experience through exceptional customer service and professional relationship management in all interaction.
Other duties as assigned.
Education & Experience Requirements
Education:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience and training in lieu of degree.
Experience:
Five (5) or more years of experience providing physical security to high profile executives, public officials or celebrities.
Proven experience in executive protection, law enforcement, military, or private security.
Experience with calendar management, handling travel arrangements, and managing expense reports.
Experience in working with and troubleshooting various mediums of technology, including smart phones, tablets and laptops.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Safety & Situational Awareness
Maintains a high level of vigilance and situational awareness, especially in public settings and during travel.
Anticipates and responds quickly to potentially dangerous or high-stress situations to ensure the CEO’s safety.
Thinks critically and acts decisively under pressure, maintaining composure in fast-paced or unpredictable environments.
Communication & Professionalism
Superior verbal and written communication skills, with proficiency in drafting and editing executive-level correspondence.
Professional demeanor and excellent customer service skills.
Strong relationship management skills with the ability to advise and interact effectively with senior leaders.
Demonstrated ability to handle stressful situations and multiple deadline-driven projects with tact and diplomacy.
Project & Time Management
Demonstrated project management skills, including leading virtual or matrixed teams and working independently with minimal supervision.
Ability to plan projects, develop milestones, and meet specific deadlines.
Technical Proficiency
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Outlook.
Ethics & Discretion
Strong commitment to ethical practices and maintaining strict confidentiality.
Travel Readiness
Must be comfortable with frequent travel.
Certifications/Licenses
Valid driver’s license and passport.
CPR/First Aid certified.
Defensive driving and tactical training a plus.
Physical Requirements
This position operates in a typical office environment and requires the ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Physical requirements may include:
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, handling documents, and using office equipment.
Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds as needed.
Clear verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with colleagues and stakeholders.
Work Environment
Hybrid Position (3 Days In-Office, 2 Days Remote):
This position follows a hybrid work schedule, requiring in-office presence [three days per week] and remote work [two days per week]. Core work hours will be designated by the department. The office environment includes a standard workstation setup with collaborative spaces, while remote work requires a reliable high-speed internet connection and a suitable home workspace. Employees must maintain availability during standard business hours and adhere to company policies for both in-office and remote work.
Travel: 50% or more
#LI-Hybrid
The hiring range for this position is $75,000 to $98,000 per year. This range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications. SHRM offers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package. The benefits for this position include professional growth and development, health, dental, vision, well-being, health savings, flexible spending, retirement, open leave, and annual discretionary bonus and incentives.
Salary : $75,000 - $98,000