About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) stands as one of the world's largest lodging franchisors, boasting over 7,400 hotels and more than 625,000 rooms across 45 countries and territories. As a leader in midscale, extended stay, and upscale segments, Choice Hotels offers a diverse portfolio of 22 brands, including beloved names like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Radisson, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Park Plaza, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson. This extensive network meets every traveler's needs, from economy stays to full-service upscale properties, while delivering exceptional value to franchise owners and shareholders.

The award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty program and co-branded credit card options make earning rewards fast and personalized. At Choice Hotels, our cultural values—Welcome and Respect Everyone, Be Bold, Be Quick, Listen, Be Curious, and Show Integrity—drive loyalty, growth, and the true hospitality spirit. Managed hotels like Radisson Blu exemplify our commitment to premium service and safety.

Role Overview

As Director of Security for Choice Hotels in Chicago, Illinois, you will lead efforts to create a safe and secure environment across our premier properties, including Radisson and other upscale brands. This full-time role demands a strategic leader passionate about guest safety, team training, and operational excellence. You will oversee security operations, emergency response, and compliance, ensuring our hotels exceed industry standards while embodying Choice Hotels' hospitality spirit.

Reporting to senior management, you will manage daily security protocols, from patrols and inspections to crisis management, fostering a culture of vigilance and professionalism. This position is ideal for seasoned security professionals eager to advance in the dynamic hospitality sector with a global leader like Choice Hotels.

Key Responsibilities

Your role will encompass a wide range of critical duties to safeguard guests, employees, and property:

• Ensure all security staff execute proper methods and procedures, enforcing safety rules across departments.
• Manage lost & found operations, including inventory, training, and SOP compliance; oversee parking ramp inspections, car counts, and revenue reports.
• Conduct regular hotel inspections to identify and mitigate security or safety hazards, communicating with department heads for corrective actions.
• Serve as Fire Safety Director and Coordinator, developing and training on Life, Fire, and Safety SOPs; respond immediately to emergencies like fires, bomb threats, or evacuations.
• Process incident reports for injuries, thefts, assaults, and complaints; review investigations for accuracy and train staff on proper documentation.
• Control key management, entrance/exit policies, and loading dock inspections; manage shipping/receiving with package audits.
• Provide essential training including OSHA 7, workplace violence, First Aid/CPR/AED, human trafficking awareness, and verbal defense/de-escalation.
• Oversee Security Quore entries, hotel radios, monthly safety testing, and tools like Ileftmystuff.com for lost & found reconciliation.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as Director of Security at Choice Hotels, candidates should possess:

• Extensive experience in hospitality security leadership, preferably in upscale hotels like Radisson or similar brands.
• Certification as Fire Safety Director or equivalent; deep knowledge of emergency procedures and local regulations in Chicago, Illinois.
• Proven ability to train teams on compliance topics such as OSHA, CPR/AED, and de-escalation tactics.
• Strong investigative skills for incidents, thefts, and accidents; excellent communication for reporting to management.
• Familiarity with security software, SOP development, and maintaining high patrol productivity.
• Alignment with Choice Hotels' cultural values, demonstrating integrity, curiosity, and bold leadership.

A bachelor's degree in criminal justice, hospitality management, or a related field is preferred, along with 7+ years of progressive security experience.

Benefits & Perks

Choice Hotels rewards top talent with an outstanding package:

• Competitive salary estimated at $90,000–$140,000 annually, based on hospitality sector benchmarks for Director-level roles in Chicago.
• Generous hotel employee discounts at 7,400+ properties worldwide, including Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Radisson brands—perfect for travel enthusiasts.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; tuition reimbursement for professional development.
• Exclusive perks like Choice Privileges elite status and team-building events.

Career Growth

At Choice Hotels, your career trajectory is limitless. As Director of Security, you'll gain exposure to global operations, advancing to regional or corporate security roles. Our commitment to internal promotions—backed by leadership training and mentorship—has propelled countless professionals to executive positions. Leverage our vast network for cross-brand opportunities in hospitality security, operations, or management.

Why Join Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels isn't just a job; it's a gateway to a thriving career in hospitality. Work with iconic brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Radisson in vibrant Chicago, contributing to guest satisfaction while enjoying unparalleled stability and growth. Our focus on innovation, diversity, and employee well-being sets us apart. Be part of a team that inspires loyalty and embodies the hospitality spirit—apply now and secure your future with Choice Hotels.

Role FAQs

What is the work schedule for Director of Security?

Full-time with flexible shifts, including evenings/weekends to cover 24/7 hotel operations.

Are there relocation benefits?

Case-by-case for qualified Chicago-based candidates; inquire during application.

What brands will I oversee security for?

Primarily managed portfolio including Radisson Blu, Radisson, and others like Comfort Inn and Quality Inn.

Is prior hospitality experience required?

Highly preferred; security leadership in hotels is essential.

How does Choice Hotels support professional development?

Through ongoing training, certifications, and clear paths to promotion.