Associate Principal, Security Advisory

Buro Happold is seeking a proactive leader to support the growth of our corporate security advisory practice. This role combines technical expertise in security management with strong commercial acumen, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions for clients. The Associate Principal will drive business development and ensure successful delivery of complex security projects.

Who We Are

Buro Happold is a global engineering and advisory firm committed to creating sustainable, resilient, and equitable environments. Our interdisciplinary teams work at the intersection of design, strategy, and technical excellence to solve complex challenges and deliver meaningful change.

Here at Buro Happold, expect the exceptional.

From the projects you will work on to the clients we work with. From career-defining opportunities to an inclusive and diverse practice where we all contribute to a more equitable world. From our reputation to our relationships. Wherever your Buro Happold career takes you, it’ll be anything but ordinary.

Your next role

The Associate Principal, Security Advisory supports the growth and delivery of the firm’s US security advisory practice. This role combines expertise in security management and business development, overseeing complex projects, and ensuring high technical standards. The ideal candidate is proactive, excels at project management, and is committed to delivering innovative solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery & Technical Excellence

• Serve as Project Director for multiple security advisory projects, ensuring technical quality, timely delivery, financial performance, and client satisfaction.
• Oversee the integration of security management and security design offerings, delivering comprehensive solutions to clients.
• Maintain rigorous quality assurance processes and ensure all work meets the highest technical standards.
• Advise clients on the impact of technology, digital, and data-driven solutions in corporate security.
  
  
  

Business Development & Commercial Management

• Identify and convert new business opportunities, contributing to the group’s marketing strategy and securing a strong project pipeline.
• Prepare and review fee proposals, negotiate additional fees, and ensure projects are delivered profitably in line with business plans.
• Develop and maintain key client relationships, maximizing opportunities for repeat business and cross-selling services.
  
  
  

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent the firm to clients, partners, and industry bodies as a subject matter expert in corporate security.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to deliver integrated, multidisciplinary solutions.
  
  
  

Your Skills And Experience

Required Skills & Experience:

• Specialization in one or more areas of corporate security management (e.g., personnel security, physical security, security operations).
• Proven experience leading and developing teams in a consulting environment.
• Track record of delivering complex projects and maintaining excellent relationships with senior stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams, and manage conflict constructively.
• Results-focused approach and commitment to delivery excellence.
• Analytical mindset and attention to detail, combined with creative problem-solving abilities.
• Leadership and mentorship experience, fostering a culture of trust, empowerment, and continuous learning.
• Demonstrated ability to drive an inclusive and innovative culture and promote knowledge sharing across the practice.
• High integrity, independence, and respect for confidentiality.
  
  
  

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• International project experience and cultural awareness.
• Experience working in a global matrix organization.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.
  
  
  

Qualifications:

• 10-15 years’ minimum experience in corporate security advisory, with a proven track record of technical and commercial leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree in security, risk management, or related field.
• Professional registration or working towards Chartered Security Professional status (or equivalent).
  
  
  

What We Offer

• Salary range of $130,000 to $180,000. This will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, skills, education, and/or experience.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Annual discretionary bonus.
• Generous PTO (5 weeks) 10 paid holidays.
• 401k with company match.
• Student loan repayment assistance.
• Hybrid working and summer hours.
• Professional license reimbursement.
• Access to a global network of experts.
• Learning and development opportunities.
  
  
  

A place for everyone

Buro Happold values an individual's flexible approaches to working patterns as an important part of how you work and achieve balance. We welcome applications from those who are seeking flexibility in their careers.

Our exceptional portfolio of projects is the result of the diversity of thought, identities, backgrounds, and experiences that shape us. Appreciating each other’s differences is key, we want employees to feel they don’t have to mask elements of their identity to thrive.

We are working to change the lack of representation of marginalised groups in the built environment. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who feels they are underrepresented in the industry. We have much to learn from one another. Embracing differences allows us to develop the most innovative and elegant solutions.

Please let us know if there are any adjustments we could make to the application process to make it easier and more comfortable for you. Contact recruitment@burohappold.com so we can work with you to support you throughout your application.