Resume Writing Tips for Head Security & Administration

Introduction

The role of Head Security & Administration is pivotal in ensuring the safety and smooth functioning of any organization. Employers seek candidates with proven leadership, sharp analytical skills, and a robust understanding of modern security protocols paired with administrative excellence. A well-crafted resume serves as a bridge connecting your professional story with what recruiters seek, highlighting your impact and readiness to lead. This blog shares 10 essential resume writing tips tailored specifically for this role, helping you stand out in applicant tracking systems (ATS) and with hiring managers alike.

1. Resume Summary

Your summary is your elevator pitch—concise and powerful. Highlight your years of experience, leadership strengths, and key competencies related to security and administration. Use strong action verbs and quantify your impact where possible to grab attention right away.

Example: "Results-driven Head of Security & Administration with 12+ years leading multi-site security operations and administrative functions. Expert in risk assessment, crisis management, and policy development, reducing incidents by 30% and enhancing workforce efficiency by 25% through strategic team leadership."

2. Key Skills

Listing relevant key skills upfront aligns your profile with job requirements and improves ATS ranking. Focus on both technical and managerial competencies crucial for your role.

• Risk Management
• Compliance & Regulatory Affairs
• Emergency Response Planning
• Team Leadership & Development
• Physical & Cybersecurity Measures
• Security Technology Implementation
• Budget & Resource Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Facility Management
• Data Analysis & Reporting

3. Achievements vs. Responsibilities

Instead of simply listing duties, emphasize your accomplishments—how you improved security posture, optimized processes, or saved costs. Achievements tell a story of value and leadership.

For example, rather than: "Managed security staff and oversaw daily operations," write: "Led a team of 50+ security personnel across five locations, resulting in a 40crease in security breaches over two years."

4. Tailor to Job

Customize your resume for each application by incorporating keywords and phrases from the job description. This practice boosts ATS compatibility and demonstrates that you understand the employer’s specific needs.

5. Tools

• CCTV Surveillance Systems (e.g., Avigilon, Genetec)
• Access Control Software (e.g., Lenel, Honeywell)
• Incident Reporting Platforms (e.g., Resolver, i-Sight)
• Emergency Alert Systems
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Tools
• Facility Management Software
• Risk Assessment Tools
• Employee Scheduling Tools (e.g., Deputy, Kronos)
• Data Analysis Software (e.g., Excel, Tableau)

6. Metrics

• Percentage reduction in security incidents (e.g., "Achieved 35% reduction in security breaches")
• Size of team managed (e.g., "Directed 60 security and administrative staff across multiple sites")
• Budget managed (e.g., "Oversaw a $2 million annual security and operations budget")
• Response time improvements (e.g., "Improved emergency response time by 20%")
• Cost savings (e.g., "Implemented security technology upgrades that cut operational costs by $150K annually")

7. Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Business Administration, or related field
• Certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), or Certified Security Manager (CSM)

8. Format

• Use a clean, professional layout with clear sections and headings to guide the reader
• Prefer bullet points for responsibilities and achievements—avoid large blocks of text

9. Concise

Keep your resume focused and relevant. Avoid redundancies, and use powerful language to convey leadership and impact in as few words as possible, ideally limiting your resume to two pages.

10. Bonus

• Include a certifications or training section to emphasize continuous professional development
• Use industry-specific jargon and acronyms appropriately, but don’t overdo it—ensure readability for HR professionals

Examples

• “Directed implementation of an access control system that decreased unauthorized entry incidents by 45%, enhancing overall site security.”
• “Conducted comprehensive risk assessments across 10+ facilities, resulting in new policies that reduced employee safety incidents by 25%.”li>

Conclusion

In summary, a powerful resume for a Head of Security & Administration must clearly showcase your leadership qualities, analytical prowess, and tangible impact on safety and operational excellence. Highlighting measurable achievements, leveraging relevant skills, and maintaining a crisp, ATS-friendly format will elevate your chances of securing leadership roles. Remember, your resume is your narrative of influence—tell it with clarity, confidence, and conviction.