Security Technology & Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Security Technology & Design Manager Company: BMO Location: Toronto, ON, Canada Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Security Operations & Risk Management Date Posted: October 20, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the development and execution of comprehensive physical security and life safety programs across BMO's enterprise locations, focusing on risk mitigation and compliance.
• Acts as a strategic advisor to business groups, influencing and negotiating to achieve optimal security outcomes and minimize potential impact from criminal risk.
• Leads the review and sign-off of security designs for major building and security projects, ensuring alignment with original security objectives and monitoring project completion.
• Manages and enhances core business processes related to physical security, implementing continuous improvement initiatives to optimize operational methods and workflows.
• Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders, including law enforcement and security vendors, to ensure effective crisis management and a satisfactory level of protection.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within "Customer Shared Services" which, for a Security Technology & Design Manager, implies a focus on supporting the operational security needs of various business units, ensuring consistent service delivery and risk management across the enterprise. The emphasis on "trusted advisor" and "influences and negotiates" suggests a significant stakeholder management component, requiring strong communication and strategic thinking beyond technical security expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain enterprise-wide physical security programs, policies, and best practices to ensure a satisfactory level of security, fire, and life safety protection.
• Conduct independent analysis and risk assessments to identify emerging security issues, trends, and vulnerabilities, providing strategic recommendations to leadership.
• Lead consultations with internal and external stakeholders to develop and execute strategic business plans aimed at reducing physical security risks and exposures.
• Review and approve security designs for all significant building and security projects, ensuring compliance with BMO's security standards and objectives.
• Oversee vendor relationships for security services, ensuring contractual obligations are met and providing guidelines for execution and performance monitoring.
• Manage and enhance core business processes related to physical security operations, including access control, surveillance, and emergency response protocols.
• Lead or participate in change management activities, including readiness assessments, planning, and stakeholder engagement to drive the successful adoption of new security initiatives.
• Develop and deliver training programs on physical security awareness, procedures, and emergency protocols to employees and relevant stakeholders.
• Respond to and assist in the management of crisis and emergency situations, ensuring timely and effective resolution and post-incident analysis.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT, Facilities, Legal) to integrate security considerations into broader business operations and projects.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of existing security equipment and systems, escalating issues and recommending upgrades or replacements as needed.
• Gather, analyze, and report on security-related data, identifying trends, performance metrics, and areas for operational improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description extensively details day-to-day operational tasks such as monitoring access, administering system access reports, and ensuring security equipment function. These are crucial for the role but should be framed within the broader strategic responsibilities of a "Manager." The enhanced responsibilities focus on the strategic oversight, program development, and stakeholder engagement aspects typical of a management-level position in security operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Post-secondary degree in a related field of study (e.g., Security Management, Criminal Justice, Engineering, Business Administration) or an equivalent combination of education and extensive experience.
• Deep knowledge and technical proficiency gained through extensive education and business experience in security technology and design.

Experience:

• Typically 5-7 years of relevant experience in building security, physical security program management, and security technology implementation.
• Proven experience in developing and executing security programs, policies, and practices.
• Demonstrated experience in project management and program management, with a focus on security-related initiatives.

Required Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of building security principles, systems, and technologies.
• In-depth understanding of Health & Safety workplace requirements and their integration with physical security.
• Proficiency in the operation and maintenance of building and physical security equipment (e.g., access control systems, CCTV, intrusion detection).
• Advanced PC skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, for analysis, reporting, and presentation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex security issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Proven collaboration and team-building skills, with experience working effectively across departments.
• In-depth time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated influence and negotiation skills to achieve business objectives and gain stakeholder buy-in.
• Data-driven decision-making capabilities, with the ability to analyze data and provide actionable insights.
• Meticulous attention to detail with a strong focus on execution and follow-through.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with security design for new construction and renovation projects.
• Familiarity with relevant security industry standards and regulations (e.g., CSA, UL).
• Knowledge of crisis management and emergency response planning.
• Experience in vendor management and contract oversight for security services.
• Understanding of IT security principles and their intersection with physical security.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "In-depth" qualifiers for skills in the raw description are retained and emphasized. Specific examples of security equipment and relevant standards are added to provide a clearer picture of the technical depth expected. The distinction between required and preferred skills is made to guide candidates on prioritization.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented evidence of successfully developed and implemented physical security programs or initiatives.
• Case studies detailing the design, integration, and management of security technologies (e.g., access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection systems).
• Examples of security risk assessments, threat analyses, and resulting mitigation strategies implemented.
• Demonstrations of process improvement initiatives within physical security operations, highlighting efficiency gains or risk reduction.
• Evidence of successful stakeholder engagement and collaboration on security projects, showcasing influence and negotiation skills.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase of structured approaches to identifying security vulnerabilities and designing effective countermeasures.
• Examples of workflow optimization for security operations, such as incident response protocols, access request processing, or security system monitoring.
• Documentation illustrating the management of security vendors, including RFP processes, contract negotiation, and performance reviews.
• Records of security design reviews for building projects, demonstrating adherence to standards and project management oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Manager-level role in Security Technology & Design, a portfolio is crucial. The requirements here focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, project execution, and quantifiable results in physical security program development and technology implementation, aligning with the core responsibilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $69,000 - $129,000 USD per year (Salaried)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance plan.
• Tuition Reimbursement program to support ongoing professional development.
• Accident Insurance coverage.
• Life Insurance benefits.
• Retirement Savings Plans (e.g., RRSP, Pension Plan) to support long-term financial security.
• Performance-based incentives, discretionary bonuses, and other rewards as part of the total compensation package.
• Access to additional perks and rewards detailed on BMO's Total Rewards portal.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours or on-call responsibilities during crisis situations or outside of normal business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is directly from the input. The listed benefits are also directly from the input. The "On-site" nature of the role is reiterated, and the potential for extended hours is noted given the security management context and mention of responding to urgent/emergency situations. The currency is specified as USD based on the provided range and common industry practice for such roles in North America, though local Canadian Dollar (CAD) equivalents would be more typical for a Toronto-based role. Given the input salary is in USD, it's retained as such.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Banking) Company Size: BMO is a large, established financial institution. While specific employee numbers aren't provided, it operates globally and is recognized as a major bank. Founded: BMO was founded in 1817, making it one of North America's oldest and largest financial institutions, with a long-standing history and significant market presence.

Team Structure:

• The Security Technology & Design Manager role falls under the "Customer Shared Services" job family group. This suggests the security team operates as a service provider to various business units within BMO.
• The team likely comprises specialized security professionals, including those focused on technology, design, risk, and operations.
• Reporting structure would typically involve a senior security leader (e.g., Director of Physical Security, Head of Security Operations) with potential for direct reports in specialized areas.

Methodology:

• BMO emphasizes a data-driven approach to decision-making, evident in requirements for data analysis and reporting.
• The company culture promotes collaboration, with a focus on building effective relationships internally and externally.
• Continuous improvement is a key theme, with expectations for process optimization and identifying enhancements to programs and practices.
• A "Boldly Grow the Good in business and life" purpose drives BMO's mission, suggesting a culture that values positive impact, innovation, and customer focus.

Company Website: https://jobs.bmo.com/ca/en

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Customer Shared Services" classification is interpreted to mean the security team functions as an internal service provider, emphasizing the need for strong client management skills and a focus on delivering value to business units. The company's long history and size are contextualized for their impact on culture and operational scale.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior management level, requiring significant experience (5-7 years) and in-depth knowledge. It involves strategic planning, program oversight, and stakeholder influence, moving beyond purely technical execution to a leadership capacity within physical security operations.

Reporting Structure: The Manager likely reports to a Director or Senior Manager responsible for overall physical security or enterprise security, with potential to manage a team of security specialists, analysts, or coordinators. Collaboration will extend across various departments, including IT, Facilities, Legal, and business unit leaders.

Operations Impact: The Security Technology & Design Manager has a direct impact on BMO's operational resilience, risk exposure, and the safety of its employees and assets. Effective security programs minimize financial losses from crime, ensure business continuity, and contribute to a safe working environment, all of which are critical for a financial institution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific security technologies, threat intelligence, or enterprise-wide security strategy.
• Leadership Advancement: Progress to roles like Director of Physical Security, Head of Security Operations, or broader enterprise risk management positions.
• Cross-Functional Experience: Gain experience in related fields such as IT security, facilities management, or corporate risk management through project involvement or internal mobility.
• Professional Development: Utilize company-provided training, certifications (e.g., CPP, PSP), and industry conferences to enhance skills and industry knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Customer Shared Services" context suggests growth opportunities might involve moving into more specialized security domains or transitioning to leadership roles within specific business units if their security needs are complex enough to warrant dedicated oversight.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment. Given BMO's headquarters at 100 King Street West, Toronto, it suggests a corporate office setting within a major financial district. Office Location(s): The primary location is Toronto, ON, Canada, specifically at 100 King Street West. This implies a professional, urban work environment.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a corporate office environment, fostering collaboration with security teams, IT, facilities, and other shared services professionals.
• Access to necessary security and IT tools and technology will be provided to support the role's functions.
• Opportunities for interaction with various business unit representatives will be frequent, supporting the "trusted advisor" aspect of the role.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, the role's nature in security management necessitates flexibility, with potential requirements for after-hours support, on-call duties, and response to urgent or emergency situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific address and nature of a corporate headquarters imply a professional, structured work environment. The emphasis on on-site work suggests a culture that values in-person collaboration and direct oversight of physical security measures.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: An HR representative or recruiter will review applications, assessing alignment with the core requirements and experience level.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager, likely a senior security leader, to delve into experience, technical knowledge, and strategic thinking related to physical security and technology. Portfolio examples will be requested here.
• Technical/Panel Interview: May involve interviews with other security team members, IT specialists, or facilities managers to assess technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit. Case studies or scenario-based questions related to security design and crisis management are probable.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive or department head to confirm fit and discuss broader organizational impact.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project or initiative presented, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the actions taken, and the measurable results (e.g., reduction in incidents, cost savings, improved compliance).
• Showcase Technical Depth: Include diagrams, system schematics, or technology overviews where relevant to demonstrate understanding of security systems and design principles.
• Highlight Process Improvement: Present case studies that clearly outline how you identified inefficiencies or risks in existing processes and what steps you took to improve them, including the impact.
• Tailor to BMO: Research BMO's known security challenges or initiatives (if publicly available) and subtly align your portfolio examples to demonstrate relevant experience and foresight.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Be prepared to walk through key elements concisely and answer detailed questions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions such as: "How would you approach designing security for a new branch office?" or "What steps would you take to investigate a security breach involving unauthorized access?"
• Process Design: Be ready to outline a process for reviewing security vendor proposals or developing an emergency response plan.
• Stakeholder Management: Practice explaining how you would gain buy-in for a significant security upgrade from non-technical business stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The process is outlined assuming a standard corporate interview structure for a management role. The portfolio advice is tailored to a Security Technology & Design Manager, emphasizing practical, project-based evidence of skills and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Access Control Systems (ACS): Experience with major ACS platforms (e.g., Lenel, Honeywell, Genetec) for managing physical access.
• Video Surveillance Systems (VSS/CCTV): Proficiency with VMS (Video Management Software) and hardware from providers like Axis, Bosch, Milestone, or Genetec.
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Familiarity with alarm systems and monitoring technologies.
• Security Management Platforms: Experience with integrated security platforms or PSIM (Physical Security Information Management) systems.
• Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for managing security projects and initiatives.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Excel: For in-depth data analysis, trend identification, and reporting on security metrics.
• MS PowerPoint: For creating presentations on security designs, program effectiveness, and risk assessments for stakeholders.
• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Familiarity with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or BMO's internal reporting dashboards for visualizing security data and performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Physical Security Design Software: CAD or similar tools for site plans and security system layouts.
• Workflow Automation Tools: Potentially used for automating routine security processes like access request approvals or incident logging, depending on BMO's internal stack.
• Databases/Spreadsheets: For managing asset inventories, vendor contracts, and security system configurations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Specific examples of security technology vendors and software types are included, as this is critical for a "Technology & Design" role. The emphasis is on integrated systems and data analysis tools relevant to managing and reporting on physical security operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Security First: A paramount commitment to protecting BMO's people, assets, and information, ensuring a secure environment for all operations.
• Integrity & Trust: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all security operations, fostering trust with employees, customers, and regulatory bodies.
• Collaboration & Partnership: Working effectively across departments and with external stakeholders to achieve shared security objectives and a seamless employee experience.
• Innovation & Improvement: Continuously seeking opportunities to enhance security technologies, processes, and programs to adapt to evolving threats and business needs.
• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for security outcomes, from design and implementation to ongoing management and incident response.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Consultative: Engaging with business units early in project lifecycles to embed security considerations and provide expert advice.
• Data-Driven: Utilizing metrics and analysis to inform decisions, justify recommendations, and demonstrate the value of security initiatives.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with Facilities, IT Security, Legal, and other shared services teams to ensure a holistic approach to risk management and operational efficiency.
• Clear Communication: Maintaining open and regular communication channels with stakeholders, providing updates, and addressing concerns promptly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are derived from BMO's stated purpose and the nature of a security management role within a large financial institution, emphasizing trust, integrity, and proactive protection.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Evolving Threat Landscape: Keeping pace with new and sophisticated security threats, including cyber-physical attacks, and adapting security designs accordingly.
• Balancing Security and Accessibility: Implementing robust security measures without unduly hindering employee productivity or customer access.
• Technology Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of various security technologies and systems, and managing obsolescence.
• Cross-Departmental Alignment: Gaining consensus and securing resources for security initiatives across diverse business units with competing priorities.
• Budgetary Constraints: Justifying security investments and demonstrating ROI in a cost-conscious environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications like Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) to enhance expertise.
• Technology Advancements: Staying abreast of emerging security technologies, AI in security, and smart building integrations through vendor training, webinars, and industry publications.
• Leadership Development: Participating in BMO's leadership training programs to hone management, coaching, and strategic planning skills.
• Networking: Engaging with industry peers through professional organizations (e.g., ASIS International) to share best practices and learn from others' experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed around the typical complexities of security management in a large, regulated industry, with a focus on technology, integration, and stakeholder management. Growth opportunities are tied to professional development and career progression within the security field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Security Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive physical security strategy for a large enterprise like BMO. What key components would you prioritize?" (Focus on risk assessment, policy development, technology integration, and stakeholder buy-in.)
• Technology Implementation: "Walk me through a complex security technology implementation you managed. What were the main challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight project management, vendor management, and technical problem-solving.)
• Process Improvement: "How would you assess and improve existing physical security operational processes within BMO's shared services model?" (Emphasize data analysis, workflow mapping, and continuous improvement methodologies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• BMO's Purpose: "How would your role as Security Technology & Design Manager contribute to BMO's purpose of 'Boldly Grow the Good in business and life'?" (Connect security to enabling business growth, protecting assets, and fostering a safe environment.)
• Stakeholder Engagement: "Describe a situation where you had to influence stakeholders who were resistant to security recommendations. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.)
• Risk Management: "How do you balance the need for robust security with the desire for an open and accessible workplace for employees and customers?" (Show understanding of risk appetite and user experience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by key areas of responsibility (e.g., Program Development, Technology Design, Project Management, Process Improvement).
• Storytelling: For each case study, clearly articulate the "Situation," "Task," "Action," and "Result" (STAR method). Focus on your specific contributions and the impact achieved.
• Visuals: Use diagrams, charts, and relevant images (if appropriate and anonymized) to illustrate designs, processes, and data.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful achievements. Anticipate questions that probe deeper into your methodology and decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to assess strategic thinking, technical expertise, and cultural fit within BMO's context. Portfolio presentation advice focuses on practical, results-oriented communication.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Security Technology & Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the BMO careers portal link provided in the job posting.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in physical security programs, technology design, risk management, and project leadership, using keywords from the job description (e.g., "physical security," "security design," "risk mitigation," "vendor management," "stakeholder engagement"). Quantify achievements with metrics where possible.
• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a professional portfolio showcasing relevant projects, security designs, process improvements, and quantifiable results. Be ready to discuss specific examples during interviews.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with BMO's business, its values ("Boldly Grow the Good"), and its position in the financial services industry. Understand the importance of security within a large financial institution.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions related to security management, technology implementation, crisis response, and stakeholder collaboration. Practice articulating your approach to complex security challenges.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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