Chief Security Officer

Designation – Company Chief Security Officer

Grade – L6M

Reporting To – Business Head

Role Purpose

The Chief Security Officer (CSO) is responsible for the end‑to‑end physical security of defence manufacturing unit. The role ensures protection of classified assets, defence material, infrastructure, personnel, and operations in compliance with MOD security Manual.

Key Responsibilities

1. Physical Security Strategy & Governance

• Design and implement a layered physical security architecture for defence facilities.
• Establish site‑specific and enterprise‑wide Physical Security SOPs.
• Align security posture with MoD, Armed Forces, and security‑vetting expectations.
• Present security readiness, risks, and mitigation to top management and regulatory bodies.

2. Facility & Perimeter Security

• Ensure parameter security of manufacturing plants in compliance with the defined regulations.
• Implement and oversee:
• Perimeter fencing, lighting, intrusion detection
• CCTV surveillance and monitoring rooms
• Access control, frisking, and material movement checks
• Ensure zoning of restricted, controlled, and general areas.

3. Access Control & Personnel Security

• Establish employee, vendor, and visitor access protocols.
• Enforce pass and permit systems for sensitive and restricted zones.
• Coordinate physical access approvals in line with security clearance requirements.
• Prevent insider threats through monitoring, compliance checks, and audits.

4. Armed Guarding & Security Force Management

• Oversee armed and unarmed guarding arrangements as per threat perception.
• Ensure all security manpower is sourced through PSARA‑licensed agencies.
• Ensure:
• Training in defence‑specific security procedures
• Weapon handling and safe custody
• Shift discipline, supervision, and drills
• Coordinate with IB / local police where applicable.

5. Material, Asset & Explosive Security

• Ensure secure handling, storage, and movement of:
• Classified materials
• Sensitive tools, jigs, and test equipment
• Enforce strict gate control, vehicle checks, sealing, and escort protocols.
• Prevent pilferage, sabotage, or unauthorized removal of assets.

6. Incident Response & Emergency Management

• Lead response to physical security incidents including:
• Trespass / intrusion
• Sabotage or theft
• Espionage attempts
• Workplace violence
• Liaise with:
• Local police and intelligence units
• District administration
• Conduct post‑incident investigations and corrective action.

7. Regulatory & Defence Compliance

Ensure compliance with applicable laws and directives, including:

• Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 (PSARA)
• Official Secrets Act, 1923
• MoD / DRDO / DPSU security directives
• Physical security clauses under Defence Industrial Licensing norms

8. Security Audits & Readiness

• Conduct internal and third‑party physical security audits.
• Lead mock drills, breach simulations, and emergency exercises.
• Ensure audit readiness for MoD, armed forces, and regulatory inspections.
• Maintain security documentation, logs, and incident records.

9. Leadership & Security Culture

• Build and lead a disciplined physical security organization.
• Train employees on security awareness and facility rules.
• Enforce zero‑tolerance for breaches and non‑compliance.
• Promote a high‑alert, defence‑grade security culture.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in any discipline

Experience

• 10+ years in:
• Armed Forces
• Proven experience securing high‑sensitivity or classified facilities
• Exposure to dealing with MoD, armed forces, and intelligence agencies

Preferred Background

Ex‑serving defence