Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic
Daniel S Clifford

Daniel S Clifford

Bar Harbor,ME

Summary

Accomplished Security Program Manager and Director with over 25 years of global leadership experience in high-risk and strategic environments, including Iraq, Pakistan, India, Africa, Dubai, Kuwait, and the Philippines. Proven track record in managing complex security operations for the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of State (DoS), and U.S. Space Force missions, including directing the world’s largest DoS local guard force contract from 2015 to 2022, overseeing up to 3,000 personnel and a budget exceeding $100 million. Expertise in leading multidisciplinary teams to ensure compliance with federal regulations while delivering mission-critical security solutions in fast-paced settings. Currently managing a specialized team of eight, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to operational excellence and organizational integrity, complemented by an active Secret clearance.

Overview

34
34
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Security

Mount Desert Island Hospital
08.2023 - Current
  • Serve as the senior security official for a critical access hospital and associated healthcare facilities, overseeing all aspects of physical security, access control, emergency response, and regulatory compliance.
  • Lead and manage the hospital's security department, including scheduling, supervising, and training security officers to ensure 24/7 protection of patients, staff, visitors, and property.
  • Develop and implement security policies and standard operating procedures in accordance with federal, state, and Joint Commission regulations, as well as HIPAA and OSHA compliance.
  • Conduct ongoing threat assessments and vulnerability analyses to identify and mitigate physical and operational risks, including workplace violence prevention and active shooter readiness.
  • Serve as the hospital liaison with local, state, and federal law enforcement and emergency services for coordination during incidents and planned events.
  • Direct the operation and maintenance of security systems including electronic access control, surveillance cameras (CCTV), panic alarms, and duress systems.
  • Lead incident response, investigations, and documentation related to theft, disturbances, suspicious activity, and patient behavioral events, ensuring accurate reporting and escalation protocols.
  • Provide training and awareness programs to hospital staff on security procedures, workplace safety, and emergency response actions (fire, lockdown, evacuation).
  • Participate in multidisciplinary committees including Emergency Management, Safety, and Risk Management, contributing to hospital-wide readiness and continuity planning.
  • Responsible for department budgeting, procurement of security technology, and contract management for third-party vendors and service providers.
  • Maintain strong situational awareness and community relations, supporting a safe, welcoming healthcare environment while balancing security enforcement with patient sensitivity.
  • Certified AVADE Trainer responsible for conducting structured staff training sessions on workplace violence awareness, de-escalation tactics, personal defense, and behavior management for clinical and non-clinical personnel.

Senior Program Manager / Security Consultant

Continuity Global Solutions
05.2023 - 08.2023
  • Served as the lead security consultant and senior program manager overseeing Continuity Global Solutions' operations in the Philippines, supporting clients in complex and politically sensitive environments.
  • Advised U.S. and host-nation clients on threat assessments, site security surveys, and protective strategies in alignment with Department of State Overseas Security Policy Board (OSPB) standards and host-nation laws.
  • Developed and implemented integrated security plans for facilities, personnel, and transportation in urban and rural areas, factoring in insurgent threat groups, civil unrest, and geopolitical instability.
  • Oversaw contract compliance, personnel deployments, and operational performance of local security teams, including recruitment, vetting, and ongoing training in accordance with contract requirements and international best practices.
  • Provided subject matter expertise on continuity of operations (COOP), crisis management, and emergency response preparedness for U.S. corporate clients and diplomatic support missions.
  • Facilitated regular client briefings, program performance reviews, and risk mitigation strategies to enhance operational resilience and continuity under dynamic threat conditions.
  • Maintained liaison with U.S. Embassy Regional Security Officers (RSOs), local law enforcement, military officials, and private stakeholders to ensure cooperation and intelligence sharing.
  • Managed budgetary and logistical aspects of the program, ensuring optimal resource allocation, cost control, and operational scalability in support of mission goals.
  • Authored security reports, intelligence summaries, and after-action reviews for internal leadership and client decision-makers, informing adjustments to posture and policy.
  • Supported business development efforts by contributing to proposal writing, risk matrices, and operational design for emerging security programs throughout Southeast Asia.
  • Mentored and supported 89 security department employees to create strong workplace culture.

Security Program Manager - U.S. Space Force Support Contract

Chenega
10.2022 - 07.2023
  • Serve as the on-site Security Program Manager for a Department of Defense contract supporting U.S. Space Force operations in Japan, providing full-spectrum security management, program compliance, and mission-critical asset protection.
  • Oversee all aspects of physical, personnel, and operational security for classified and controlled areas, ensuring full compliance with DoD, USAF, and Space Force directives, including DoD 5200.01, ICDs, and JSIG standards.
  • Lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for access control, credentialing, visitor management, insider threat mitigation, and incident response within a forward-deployed installation in support of Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) strategic initiatives.
  • Conduct site risk assessments, vulnerability evaluations, and mission assurance activities related to space domain awareness (SDA) and ground-based support systems for critical national security infrastructure.
  • Interface directly with U.S. Space Force, Air Force, and DoD security officers, base command, and regional force protection elements to coordinate joint security posture and resolve emergent threats or compliance issues.
  • Manage the contract's security operations budget, personnel scheduling, training plans, and operational reporting to ensure continuous high-performance readiness.
  • Implement and enforce security procedures for secure facilities (SCIFs), COMSEC, OPSEC, and INFOSEC practices across multiple locations, ensuring protection of classified and mission-essential functions.
  • Deliver briefings and reports on threat intelligence, operational risk management, and compliance audits to senior stakeholders including U.S. government contracting officers and military leaders.
  • Supervise background checks, suitability adjudications, and security clearance processing (EQIP, JPAS/DISS), ensuring timely onboarding and access authorization for all contractor personnel.
  • Contribute to contingency planning, emergency response drills, and Continuity of Operations (COOP) coordination, enhancing installation-wide resilience and response capability.

Operations Manager

Maine Medical Cleaning Services
05.2022 - 05.2023
  • Directed day-to-day operations for a healthcare-focused commercial cleaning company supporting medical and clinical facilities in accordance with CDC, OSHA, and HIPAA compliance standards.
  • Supervised and scheduled a team of custodial and environmental services personnel across multiple client sites, ensuring cleanliness, sanitation, and infection control protocols were followed.
  • Conducted quality control inspections, audits, and compliance reviews to ensure high standards were consistently met in patient care areas, laboratories, and high-risk zones.
  • Managed staff hiring, onboarding, and training, including instruction on bloodborne pathogens, personal protective equipment (PPE), and chemical handling per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.
  • Oversaw supply chain and logistics for cleaning products, medical-grade disinfectants, and equipment; ensured inventory levels and vendor compliance.
  • Maintained detailed records of daily operations, work orders, inspections, and safety incidents, reporting trends and compliance status to senior leadership.
  • Implemented infection prevention best practices in coordination with hospital Infection Control teams during pandemic operations and emergency response periods.
  • Interfaced with hospital administrators, department heads, and facilities management to ensure tailored service delivery and rapid response to emerging needs.
  • Coordinated emergency cleanup, biohazard containment, and deep cleaning response for infectious disease outbreaks or hazardous events.
  • Supported operational budgeting, labor forecasting, and performance reporting aligned with organizational goals and healthcare industry expectations.

Deputy Director of Security

Treasure Island Community
02.2022 - 10.2022
  • Assisted in overseeing and managing all physical security operations for a private residential and recreational community, including access control, patrols, emergency response, and incident investigation.
  • Supervised a team of uniformed security officers, developed shift schedules, assigned duties, and conducted performance evaluations to ensure consistent and professional security coverage.
  • Supported the Director of Security in developing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs), emergency plans, and community safety policies tailored to the needs of residents, visitors, and staff.
  • Responded to security incidents including trespassing, domestic disturbances, medical emergencies, and property crimes; coordinated with local law enforcement and emergency services as needed.
  • Maintained oversight of entry gate operations, visitor screening protocols, and perimeter surveillance systems, including CCTV and license plate readers.
  • Conducted routine security audits, risk assessments, and inspections to identify vulnerabilities and recommend improvements to infrastructure and procedures.
  • Provided community relations and customer service, serving as a liaison between security and residents to address concerns, enforce community rules, and promote a safe living environment.
  • Maintained detailed records of incidents, patrols, maintenance issues, and communications in electronic reporting systems, ensuring data accuracy and compliance with internal policy.
  • Assisted in onboarding and training of new security officers, including CPR/First Aid, radio procedures, de-escalation, and AVADE/workplace violence awareness (if applicable).
  • Participated in seasonal and large-scale event planning to ensure appropriate security presence, crowd control, and coordination with event staff and public safety partners.
  • Supervised team of 9 security personnel during shift.

Senior Security Program Manager

Continuity Global Solutions
04.2015 - 07.2022
  • Served as the senior program manager overseeing the execution of the U.S. Department of State's Local Guard Force (LGF) contract in Pakistan, providing physical security for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and U.S. Consulates in Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar.
  • Managed a workforce of over 1,000 host-nation security personnel, including supervisors, guards, administrative staff, and logistics support personnel, across multiple high-threat diplomatic facilities.
  • Directed the full scope of contract operations including planning, personnel management, training, logistics, compliance, and reporting, ensuring uninterrupted protection and operational readiness in support of Chief of Mission priorities.
  • Maintained constant coordination with Regional Security Officers (RSOs), Post Security Officers (PSOs), and local law enforcement agencies to support dynamic threat response, intelligence sharing, and incident management.
  • Led the implementation and continuous refinement of Post Security and Emergency Action Plans (EAP), ensuring preparedness for attacks, civil unrest, insider threats, and natural disasters.
  • Oversaw guard force vetting, weapons qualifications, and background screening programs in compliance with Department of State policies and the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM)/Foreign Affairs Handbook (FAH).
  • Directed all aspects of budget planning, invoice reconciliation, staffing projections, and resource allocation under a multimillion-dollar contract, ensuring cost efficiency and contract performance.
  • Supervised quality assurance inspections, performance audits, and compliance reviews to ensure contract deliverables met or exceeded standards defined in the Performance Work Statement (PWS).
  • Coordinated ongoing training programs in accordance with Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS) requirements, including vehicle access control, explosive detection, surveillance detection, and emergency response protocols.
  • Led response to critical incidents including terrorist attacks, protests, insider threats, and medical emergencies, ensuring accurate reporting to the Embassy RSO and appropriate U.S. and host-nation authorities.

Program Manager/Lead Recruiter

Creative Correction
10.2021 - 05.2022
  • Served as the Program Manager and Lead Recruiter for a federal contract supporting the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), managing full-cycle recruitment and staffing efforts across multiple U.S. correctional institutions.
  • Led the design, execution, and oversight of recruitment strategies to source qualified candidates for correctional officer, administrative, and healthcare positions within federal detention and prison facilities.
  • Coordinated with BOP officials, HR departments, and facility administrators to determine staffing needs, validate hiring criteria, and align recruitment efforts with agency goals and civil service requirements.
  • Reviewed applicant resumes, conducted initial screening interviews, and ensured candidate packages were complete, accurate, and compliant with Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and BOP hiring regulations.
  • Provided guidance to applicants on federal hiring processes, USAJOBS application navigation, resume formatting, KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities), and background suitability requirements.
  • Developed and distributed outreach materials, conducted virtual and in-person job fairs, and built partnerships with veteran organizations, technical schools, and correctional training academies to expand the applicant pool.
  • Managed a recruitment pipeline of hundreds of candidates, ensuring timely communication, interview coordination, and onboarding documentation submission in accordance with federal timelines.
  • Maintained detailed tracking and metrics of recruitment outcomes, reporting to senior leadership and federal stakeholders on hiring goals, outreach results, and bottlenecks.
  • Ensured Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) compliance in all recruitment practices and promoted diversity and inclusion in candidate outreach.
  • Contributed to improvements in hiring process efficiency and applicant experience, streamlining screening tools and communication protocols while adhering to all contract deliverables.
  • Oversaw full cycle recruiting for 9 vacancies each quarter.

Security Site Manager

DynCorp International
10.2012 - 12.2014
  • Managed all aspects of base security operations under the U.S. Army/KFOR contract, providing leadership and oversight to armed and unarmed guard personnel securing Camp Bondsteel, a forward-deployed NATO installation in a post-conflict environment.
  • Supervised day-to-day security operations for perimeter access control points (ACPs), quick reaction force (QRF) readiness, roving patrols, surveillance monitoring, and base entry procedures, ensuring 24/7 force protection coverage.
  • Directed a team of U.S. and third-country national (TCN) security personnel, providing scheduling, performance evaluations, discipline, and mission briefings in accordance with DynCorp policy and U.S. military standards.
  • Conducted threat assessments and vulnerability analysis in coordination with U.S. Army force protection officers to enhance physical security posture and mitigate risks.
  • Led incident response and reporting for security breaches, unauthorized access attempts, and emergencies, ensuring proper coordination with military law enforcement and base command.
  • Ensured compliance with all contract performance requirements, including internal audits, key control, guard mount procedures, post orders, and weapons accountability.
  • Delivered ongoing training and certification in accordance with U.S. Army and DynCorp requirements, including use-of-force, escalation procedures, Rules of Engagement (ROE), and non-lethal weapons handling.
  • Maintained strict operational security (OPSEC) and information assurance protocols, safeguarding classified and sensitive information.
  • Collaborated with KFOR and host nation security forces to maintain a secure and cooperative operating environment, fostering positive working relationships in a multinational setting.
  • Provided weekly and monthly security reports, incident summaries, and staffing metrics to DynCorp regional leadership and contracting officials, supporting transparency and contract compliance.
  • Wrote and submitted daily reports on security team operations.
  • Recorded incident reports with detailed accounts of occurrences.

Project Manager - G222 and CNGS Programs

DynCorp International
10.2010 - 10.2012
  • Led security and logistics operations under the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) for the G222 aircraft program and Coalition Network Ground Support (CNGS) program at Kabul International Airport (KIA).
  • Oversaw protective details for senior U.S. government officials and corporate executives from the NSA, CIA, DoD, Department of State (DOS), and international partner agencies transiting through KIA and surrounding areas.
  • Directed protective service operations, coordinating armed security teams, armored motorcades, route planning, and emergency evacuation procedures in high-threat urban environments.
  • Integrated security with airfield operations, ground logistics, and command elements, ensuring seamless protection and continuity during sensitive movements.
  • Served as primary liaison with U.S. military, DOS Regional Security Officers (RSOs), and host-nation law enforcement to support joint operations, threat intelligence sharing, and operational deconfliction.
  • Developed and implemented security SOPs, access control protocols, and force protection measures aligned with DoD/DOS standards and contractor mission goals.
  • Managed classified communication security (COMSEC) equipment and maintained OPSEC discipline to safeguard personnel and operational plans.
  • Directed security assessments, risk analysis, and physical security upgrades to secure VIP movements and high-value logistics at KIA compound and nearby coalition support sites.
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.

O&M Operation Manager

Kellogg Brown & Root (KBR)
05.2005 - 05.2010
  • Directed logistics and O&M support operations for U.S. military forces under the Logistics Civil Augmentation Program (LOGCAP II), managing essential base life support services in contingency environments across Iraq, Kuwait, and/or Afghanistan.
  • Oversaw the planning, coordination, and execution of supply chain, facilities maintenance, transportation, warehousing, and material handling functions supporting base operations and military missions.
  • Managed a diverse workforce of U.S. expatriates, third-country nationals (TCNs), and local nationals, ensuring compliance with performance objectives, labor policies, safety standards, and host-nation regulations.
  • Developed and implemented logistical strategies to support mission-critical timelines, including procurement, shipping, inventory control, and sustainment for equipment, construction materials, fuel, and critical spare parts.
  • Maintained accountability for multimillion-dollar assets, ensuring proper receipt, storage, distribution, and documentation in accordance with U.S. Army regulations and Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) procedures.
  • Coordinated directly with military contracting officer representatives (CORs), base commanders, and KBR senior leadership to align operations with mission requirements, contract deliverables, and client expectations.
  • Supervised O&M support for key infrastructure systems including power generation, HVAC, water purification/distribution, waste management, and facility repairs to sustain continuous base operations.
  • Led the development of SOPs and contingency plans for logistics and infrastructure operations under emergency, wartime, and surge conditions.
  • Enforced strict compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards, conducting regular audits, risk assessments, and training in accordance with OSHA and KBR global standards.
  • Produced detailed operational and logistical reports, metrics, and performance summaries for submission to government officials, ensuring transparency, audit readiness, and continuous improvement.
  • Played a key role in the successful execution of redeployment, draw down, and transition operations in coordination with the U.S. Army and coalition forces.
  • Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
  • Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.

WPS Firearms Instructor

O'Gara
10.2004 - 05.2005
  • Served as a certified Firearms Instructor under the U.S. Department of State's Worldwide Protective Services (WPS) program, responsible for training armed security personnel in the use, maintenance, and tactical application of small arms in support of high-threat protective operations in Iraq.
  • Delivered instruction in accordance with WPS Statement of Work (SOW), Department of State Diplomatic Security (DS/ATA) guidelines, and contract-specific requirements for armed contractors and protective security specialists.
  • Provided classroom, range, and scenario-based instruction on a variety of U.S. and foreign weapons systems, including the M4/M16, Glock 19, M240, M249 SAW, Remington 870, AK-series rifles, and PKM machine guns.
  • Developed and implemented lesson plans, safety briefings, and evaluation standards to ensure operational readiness, weapons qualification, and certification compliance.
  • Monitored and enforced strict adherence to weapons handling protocols, range safety procedures, and U.S. Government use-of-force and escalation-of-force rules.
  • Conducted live-fire range operations, tactical drills, and stress-shoot scenarios designed to simulate combat and protective service environments.
  • Administered qualification testing and remedial training for WPS personnel to ensure full compliance with deployment and sustainment training requirements.
  • Maintained detailed training records, qualification logs, and documentation for submission to contract managers and U.S. Government oversight personnel.
  • Participated in mission planning, rehearsals, and ongoing protective operations, ensuring that all firearms training directly supported real-world operational effectiveness.
  • Monitored student progress and provided individualized instruction to meet student needs and goals.
  • Met needs of different students by adapting teaching materials and methods.

Personal Security Detail Operator

Patriot Group Intl
05.2003 - 05.2005
  • Served as an armed security professional under the U.S. Department of State Worldwide Personal Protective Services (WPPS) contract, providing close protection and secure transportation to U.S. diplomats, government officials, and other designated personnel in high-threat areas of Iraq.
  • Conducted route analysis, mission planning, and risk assessments for convoy and motorcade movements in volatile regions including Baghdad, Fallujah, and Mosul. Routinely evaluated intelligence reports to identify potential threats and plan appropriate countermeasures.
  • Operated a variety of tactical vehicles such as up-armored SUVs and MRAPs, ensuring proper maintenance and readiness.
  • Personally inspected and tested all communications and vehicle systems prior to each mission.
  • Maintained proficiency with a range of weapons systems, including M4 carbines, M249 SAW, Glock 19, and PKMs.
  • Demonstrated expert knowledge of Rules of Engagement (ROE), Use of Force (UOF) protocols, and escalation of force procedures.
  • Coordinated closely with Tactical Operations Center (TOC), Quick Reaction Forces (QRF), and other support elements to maintain communication and situational awareness during protective missions.
  • Conducted tactical drills and dry-run rehearsals prior to each movement, ensuring readiness of all team members and alignment with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Delivered immediate trauma care and emergency first aid in support of personnel injured by IEDs, small arms fire, or other hostile actions. Trained in basic battlefield first response and casualty evacuation procedures.
  • Participated in After-Action Reviews (AARs) and mission debriefings to assess performance and implement improvements in tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).

Fire Team Leader

United States Army
07.1991 - 02.2003
  • Led an elite Airborne Infantry fire team in planning and executing air assault, reconnaissance, and rapid-deployment combat operations as part of multiple airborne units and light infantry formations in the U.S. and abroad.
  • Conducted more than static-line airborne operations, including night jumps, combat equipment jumps, and multinational exercises across Europe, Asia, and the U.S.
  • Served in Long-Range Surveillance (LRS) unit with specialized training in reconnaissance, stealth operations, advanced land navigation, and intelligence reporting in denied territory.
  • Trained teams on emergency situation preparedness and integration of tactical planning, equipment maintenance and weapon use.

Education

High School - Criminal Justice

Massabesic High School
Waterboro, Maine
04.1991

Some College - Criminal Law / Justise

New Hampshire Tech Institute
Concord, NH
04.1991

Skills

  • Operational management
  • Event safety management
  • Risk assessment strategies
  • Comprehensive security training programs
  • Strategic policy planning
  • Security threat evaluation
  • Leadership in emergency services
  • Risk assessment and mitigation
  • Incident management
  • Business continuity
  • Network security
  • Surveillance systems
  • Personnel management
  • Information security
  • Employee assessment

Timeline

Director of Security

Mount Desert Island Hospital
08.2023 - Current

Senior Program Manager / Security Consultant

Continuity Global Solutions
05.2023 - 08.2023

Security Program Manager - U.S. Space Force Support Contract

Chenega
10.2022 - 07.2023

Operations Manager

Maine Medical Cleaning Services
05.2022 - 05.2023

Deputy Director of Security

Treasure Island Community
02.2022 - 10.2022

Program Manager/Lead Recruiter

Creative Correction
10.2021 - 05.2022

Senior Security Program Manager

Continuity Global Solutions
04.2015 - 07.2022

Security Site Manager

DynCorp International
10.2012 - 12.2014

Project Manager - G222 and CNGS Programs

DynCorp International
10.2010 - 10.2012

O&M Operation Manager

Kellogg Brown & Root (KBR)
05.2005 - 05.2010

WPS Firearms Instructor

O'Gara
10.2004 - 05.2005

Personal Security Detail Operator

Patriot Group Intl
05.2003 - 05.2005

Fire Team Leader

United States Army
07.1991 - 02.2003

High School - Criminal Justice

Massabesic High School

Some College - Criminal Law / Justise

New Hampshire Tech Institute